A state of emergency has been declared in Colombia after a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake killed at least 160 people and caused widespread damage. Among the buildings affected was the country’s tallest cathedral, nearly a hundred years old: its tower collapsed, scattering debris across surrounding streets. Churches and other religious buildings in several regions also suffered serious structural damage, including collapsed roofs, cracked walls and falling masonry. Some sanctuaries have been closed while engineers assess whether they remain safe. Abelardo De La Espriella, who had taken office as president only four days earlier, promised to lead the emergency response from Bogotá and assured affected Colombians they were not alone. Church communities have joined efforts to support those suffering after the disaster. Update: the death toll has risen to over 200, and three days of national mourning have been declared.  See