08/26/2026
On August 10, 2026, devastating earthquakes struck Columbia. A great number of people have been killed or injured, with many others still unaccounted for, and local Catholic dioceses have reported widespread damage to churches and other Catholic facilities across the affected region. Its effects have been felt in the Archdioceses of Manizales and Cali, in the dioceses of the State of Chocó, and in small communities and rural areas that are now facing enormous difficulties in accessing food, medical care, housing, and other basic services.
On behalf of the Archdiocese of Washington, Cardinal McElroy has already contributed funds through Catholic Relief Services to support emergency humanitarian assistance and recovery efforts. CRS is working in support of the local Catholic organization, Caritas Colombia.
In union with the prayers of Pope Leo XIV and Catholics around the world, Father Andy is asking our OLV family and friends to consider contributing directly to recovery and rebuilding efforts through Catholic Relief Services by visiting their website (click on photo link to get to the CRS website). Thank you for your compassion and generosity.
CRS is currently working with refugees along the Colombia-Ecuador border to create greater economic opportunities for families who have been displaced by the conflict.
