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Panamanian Bishops: ‘We must show the solidarity that defines our people’
Following a 7.7 magnitude earthquake on October 9, the bishops of Panama issue a letter to the nation encouraging them in the aftermath, stressing that where possible, the “parishes become true homes with open doors, where people find welcome, a listening ear, companionship, and whatever assistance we can provide.”
By Kielce Gussie
On 9 October, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck southern Panama, displacing people and damaging infrastructure. The earthquake’s epicenter hit a less densely populated area about 200km (124 miles) from the capital city. Several aftershocks have also been reported.
No deaths have been reported, but at least 27 people have been injured and about 900 homes damaged.
A partially destroyed house in Playa Venao, about 360km southwest of Panama City (AFP or licensors)
In response, the Catholic Bishops of Panama issued a statement to express their closeness, prayers, and solidarity, particularly with the families affected.
The Church is with you
“To those who are afraid, suffered damage, or are experiencing moments of distress, we want to say with love: you are not alone.”
The bishops stressed that the Church stands with the local communities, sharing their concerns and offering support in whatever is needed. They also highlighted the faith and generosity of the Panamanian people, noting that the country has always been able to rise again after difficult times “because, whenever a brother or sisters suffers, there are always hands ready to help.”
The bishops urged everyone to show this same solidarity “that defines our people, ensuring that no one remains indifferent to the suffering of others.”
On the road to recovery, special care and attention must be paid to children, the elderly, the sick, the most vulnerable families, and those with disabilities. The local parishes—wherever possible—should become “true homes with open doors…May no one feel alone in the midst of this hardship.”
“Let us not lose hope”
In their letter, the bishops of Panama thanked all the emergency response teams, volunteers, healthcare workers, and authorities for their help and dedicated spirit of service.
A sculpture of the Divine Child Jesus stands inside a house damaged by a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Macaracas, Panama (ANSA)
They also expressed their gratitude for the support, solidarity, and prayers they have received from people all across the American continent and different offices of the Holy See. This, they explained, reminds them that the country is not alone, and “that, as the Church, we are one family, sharing in one another’s suffering, sustaining hope, and remaining united in the prayer and love of Christ.”
Knowing that fear and uncertainty can be weighing on people’s hearts during this difficult time, the bishops stressed that the Lord never abandons his people. They encouraged the Panamanian people to see God in every act of love, comfort, and aid.
“This is the time to make our faith a living, visible expression of solidarity, because love for one’s neighbour becomes real when we are willing to share in the suffering of others and help ease their burdens,” the bishops urged.
Closing their letter, they entrusted the nation to the protection of their patroness, Saint Mary of La Antigua.
“Take heart, beloved people of Panama! Let us not lose hope. We are brothers and sisters; we are one family. And with God’s help, united in faith and solidarity, we will overcome this difficult time.”
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