Bishop of Assos on Colombia earthquake: Greek Orthodox Church is by our side | Orthodox Times (en)

The situation in Colombia remains critical following the powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake, with Bishop Timotheos of Assos, Regional Vicar for Bogotá and Colombia of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Mexico, describing the fear and uncertainty gripping the country.

Speaking to ERTnews’ Update program, Bishop Timotheos said that, according to the information currently available to him, no members of the Greek community have been injured and no damage has been reported to Greek-owned properties.

The broader situation, however, remains extremely difficult. More than 5,000 buildings have reportedly been destroyed, while the full extent of the devastation remains unclear because communications with remote mountainous areas and villages have yet to be restored.

According to Bishop Timotheos, the death toll is approaching 200, while around 1,200 people have been injured. Dozens of aftershocks have further heightened anxiety among residents.

“It is a terrible fear that we are experiencing,” he said, explaining that he had slept for only two hours because he remained in constant contact with the affected areas. Even in Bogotá, approximately 400 kilometers from the epicenter, residents remain on alert, keeping essential documents and personal belongings close at hand in case they need to evacuate.

Serious damage to hospitals

Bishop Timotheos expressed particular concern over damage to healthcare infrastructure. He said three hospitals in the Pereira area had collapsed, while another 18 had sustained serious damage.

Rescue workers, volunteers and local residents continue searching for people trapped beneath the rubble.

“Time is passing. Unfortunately, that is what is working against us,” the Bishop stressed.

Greek Orthodox Church mobilizes to provide assistance

The Greek Orthodox Church is coordinating with Greek diplomatic representatives responsible for Colombia and Peru to assist with relief efforts.

An Orthodox parish led by Fr. Chrysostomos operates in the affected region, although communication remains difficult because of disruptions to electricity and telecommunications.

Bishop Timotheos also drew attention to what he called the “invisible Venezuelans” — refugees living in makeshift accommodation who have become even more vulnerable following the earthquake. Many lack official documentation and consequently face difficulties accessing humanitarian assistance.

The Metropolis already provides support to approximately 300 refugee families in one of the areas where Venezuelans have settled.

“What will happen to the people who remain?”

Bishop Timotheos warned that the greatest challenge may come after the immediate rescue operations conclude, when thousands of survivors will have to confront the loss of their homes, property and livelihoods.

“The most difficult part is not now. Right now, we are trying to save as many lives as we can. But what will happen to the people who remain?” he asked, emphasizing that international solidarity must continue throughout the lengthy recovery and reconstruction process.

Concluding, Bishop Timotheos thanked the people of Greece for their messages of support and prayers, highlighting his community’s strong ties with the country.

“We were born in Colombia, and Colombia gave us life, but it was our homeland, our Greek homeland, that taught us how to live well,” he said.