World Church · November 3, 2026
Pope Leo XIV Calls for Renewed Reconstruction Efforts Ten Years After Earthquakes
Pope Leo XIV met with representatives from Italian communities that continue to suffer from the effects of earthquakes that occurred ten years ago.
Between August 2016 and January 2017, earthquakes in the regions of Lazio, Marche, Umbria, and Abruzzo left thousands of people homeless and caused significant economic and cultural losses. Approximately 300 people died during these events, which caused heavy destruction and great suffering for entire communities.
Ten years later, about 10,000 people are still living in temporary housing. In Amatrice, the most affected community, large parts of the town remain fenced off, and many damaged buildings have not yet been repaired.
In a speech on Saturday, Pope Leo XIV emphasized that reconstruction requires both a shared perspective and a shared responsibility. He referenced the scriptural account of the rebuilding of Jerusalem after its destruction by Babylon, noting that the city was rebuilt through the collective responsibility of all people rather than the efforts of a single individual.
The Pope stated that a prophetic vision is necessary to see beyond the rubble and recognize the goodness that is both possible and necessary to achieve amidst current evils. He encouraged representatives to continue their journey using a synodal approach and a prophetic vision to advance the common good based on existing needs.
Pope Leo XIV urged that every possible effort be made to ensure reconstruction happens as quickly, safely, and transparently as possible. He argued that a new beginning is impossible until the elements that provide meaning and a foundation to a community are rebuilt. He stressed the importance of restarting from the center, which includes God, the people, relationships, and the well being of all.
Referring to the prophet Haggai, the Pope noted the appeal to community members to not forget the temple, which served as the heart of the holy city. He also cited the examples of Saint Benedict, Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Rita of Cascia, and Nicholas of Tolentino, stating that the examples of saints remind people that hope requires concrete and prompt responses rather than just a wish.