The Venezuelan Episcopal Conference issued a message after the United States launched airstrikes on the South American nation and captured Nicolás Maduro, the country’s ruler since 2013.
“In the face of the events that our country is experiencing today, let us ask God to grant all Venezuelans serenity, wisdom, and strength,” the bishops said. “We stand in solidarity with those who were injured and the families of those who died. Let us persevere in prayer for the unity of our people.”
“We call on the People of God to live more intensely in hope and fervent prayer for peace in our hearts and in society, and we reject any type of violence,” they continued. “May our hands be open for encounter and mutual help, and may the decisions that are made always be for the good of our people.”
Pope Leo said yesterday that he was following developments in Venezuela “with a heart full of concern” and that “the good of the beloved Venezuelan people must prevail above every other consideration.”