The Catholic Church in Venezuela is reaffirming its pastoral role as a space for dialogue and moral accompaniment amid continuing political, social, and economic strain. Speaking on behalf of the country’s bishops, Jesús Andoni González de Zárate Salas emphasized that the Church seeks to remain close to all Venezuelans without distinction, offering presence rather than political alignment. He described peace building as a daily responsibility shaped by listening, patience, and a commitment to truth and justice. According to the archbishop, the Church’s mission at this stage is not to impose solutions but to walk alongside a population facing uncertainty, fear, and fatigue. Bishops remain attentive to the evolving national situation and are weighing future pastoral initiatives carefully, aware that any action must respond to concrete realities rather than immediate pressures. This approach reflects a broader ecclesial effort to safeguard human dignity while encouraging reconciliation in a climate marked by division and fragile trust.
The social landscape confronting Venezuelans continues to place heavy burdens on ordinary life, with long standing economic pressures now shaping almost every household decision. The Church has pointed to insecurity, declining public services, weak healthcare systems, and limited access to education and transport as persistent challenges. Wages remain insufficient while inflation and low domestic production have eroded stability and confidence. These conditions, church leaders note, are not isolated events but the outcome of years of structural strain that have gradually narrowed opportunities for families and young people. Recent announcements concerning the release of detainees have been welcomed cautiously by bishops, who acknowledge the relief such measures can bring while also recognizing the anguish caused by uncertainty and slow implementation. Families continue to seek clarity and closure, reflecting a broader desire for justice that remains unresolved across society.
Amid hardship, expressions of faith continue to serve as a source of collective strength and shared identity. Large public acts of devotion, particularly those centered on Marian traditions deeply rooted in Venezuelan history, have drawn significant participation despite the prevailing instability. Church leaders interpret these gatherings as evidence of a spiritual resilience that persists even when material conditions falter. They underline that faith remains a unifying reference point for many Venezuelans, offering consolation and hope without denying the seriousness of present struggles. Within this context, the bishops reiterate their call for reconciliation grounded in Gospel values and the common good, urging respect for every person regardless of circumstance or political stance. By maintaining openness and moral consistency, the Church seeks to contribute quietly yet firmly to the rebuilding of trust and social cohesion.
