Bishop of Assos Describes Fear and Devastation After Colombia Earthquake

BOGOTA, COLOMBIA — Bp. Timotheos of Assos, Regional Bishop of Bogota and Colombia, described widespread fear and devastation following the powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck Colombia, while saying that no members of the Greek community had been reported injured or had suffered property damage.

More than 5,000 buildings have reportedly been damaged, while the death toll was approaching 200 and about 1,200 people had been injured. Dozens of aftershocks have continued to unsettle residents, and Bp. Timotheos said he had slept only two hours while monitoring developments and communicating with affected areas. “It is a terrible fear that we are experiencing,” he told ERTnews.

The Bishop said three hospitals in the Pereira region had collapsed and another 18 were seriously damaged. Rescue workers, residents, and volunteers continued searching for people trapped beneath rubble. “Time is passing. This is what is unfortunately going against us,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of the rescue effort.

Bp. Timotheos also urged continued international assistance after the immediate rescue operation ends. “The hardest part is not now. Now we are trying to save as many lives as we can. But what will happen to the people who are left?” he asked. The Orthodox Church is coordinating humanitarian assistance with Greek diplomatic authorities while also supporting Venezuelan refugees in Colombia.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Mt. Athos monks held a prayer service after earthquakes.