The Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) joins the bishops of Venezuela in their urgent request for all sectors of the country to work together for national reconciliation. The bishops propose that this vital task be built upon respect for national sovereignty, the release of all political prisoners, and the strategic use of oil industry revenues to offset the poverty weighing down the population.
These proposals were detailed in a pastoral exhortation assessing the current and future state of the nation following the arrest of Nicolás Maduro and the events of January 3rd of this year.
“As Christians and as pastors, and in light of the concerns and fears raised by the social, political and economic situation our country is facing (…) we wish to convey a message of hope to the people of Venezuela”.
Solidarity with Affected Sectors
The prelates expressed their deep “closeness and solidarity” with the most vulnerable sectors of society. They specifically highlighted the suffering of political prisoners and their families, the millions who have emigrated, victims of human trafficking, and those unable to cover basic needs.
Furthermore, they drew attention to the abandoned elderly, the sick without access to medication, and professionals in health and education earning “miserable salaries”. In response, the Church commits itself to promoting the common good above personal or ideological interests.
“This requires processes of reunion, mutual recognition, forgiveness and reconciliation, purification of memory, in truth and justice, with a firm commitment to respect the dignity of persons and the continuous exercise of fraternity”.
A Path Toward Democratization and Progress
The bishops clarified that the path toward peace and non-violence does not mean forgetting the past, but rather making reparations and rebuilding bonds of fraternity. To achieve peaceful progress and democratization, the exhortation calls for several key actions:
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Guarantees of Sovereignty: Restoring national sovereignty, which has been hindered by years of undue external interference.
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Repeal of Restrictive Laws: Removing laws that curtail fundamental freedoms such as speech, the right to vote, and civil organization activities.
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Amnesty and Release: Demanding the full release of those detained for unjust reasons and supporting an amnesty law based on extensive civil consultation.
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Economic Justice: Using revenue from the oil industry to improve salaries and implement social programs that ensure dignified work.
Spiritual Commitment and Continued Support
Finally, the bishops pledged that all Church institutions will serve as places of encounter and accompaniment, urging Catholics to seek light and strength through daily prayer.
“Confiados en la intercesión maternal de la Santísima Virgen María de Coromoto, pedimos que todos y cada uno asumamos con valentía y generosidad nuestras responsabilidades para juntos encontrar el progreso de nuestra patria por caminos de libertad, justicia y paz”.
For over a decade, ACN has supported Church institutions in Venezuela to ease these difficult circumstances. Through spiritual and material projects, the charity ensures that priests, religious, and pastoral workers can continue their mission of hope despite limited resources.
