Pope Leo XIV calls for renewed push to rebuild Central Italy

Pope Leo XIV met with representatives from municipalities in central Italy on Saturday, October 31, to call for a renewed effort to rebuild areas affected by earthquakes ten years ago. During the meeting in the Clementine Hall at the Vatican, the Pope stated that physical reconstruction must be completed as quickly, safely, and transparently as possible.

The seismic events resulted in 299 deaths and 365 injuries, leaving behind significant material damage and lasting community wounds. The Pope told the delegates that reconstruction requires a vision beyond simply erecting buildings. Referencing the biblical book of Nehemiah, he said that cities are reborn through the shared responsibility of all people rather than the work of a single individual.

Leo XIV encouraged authorities and citizens to work together with a foresight that looks beyond immediate needs to discover new possibilities amidst destruction. He also mentioned Saint Nicholas of Tolentino as an example of a saint who brought peace to communities affected by violence.