Our hearts are saddened by the catastrophic earthquakes that have caused horrific loss of life, injuries, devastation, and property damage in Venezuela last night. Our hearts go out to the people of Venezuela at this time.
Not long ago, I was with Archbishop Raúl Biord Castillo of Caracas at a conference — a bright, warm, and faithful shepherd. I wrote to him this morning to tell him that the Church of San José stands with him and his people, and to assure him of our prayers and charitable contributions.
Our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, has already sent emergency aid and is in close contact with the local Church. Let us follow his lead. There are two trusted ways we can help:
- The USCCB Fund for Latin America
- Catholic Relief Services has opened an emergency fund for this earthquake: www.crs.org/donate/venezuela-earthquake
Please pray for the dead, for the injured, and for the rescuers who have not slept. And please give what you can.
Our Lady of Coromoto, patroness of Venezuela — comfort and embrace your people suffering in Venezuela.
Most Reverend Oscar Cantú
Bishop of San José