Venezuelan Faith Communities Call for Peace Amid Political Turmoil

Thu Jan 08 2026 18:51:31 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In the wake of Nicolás Maduro's capture, faith leaders in Venezuela and among the diaspora in the U.S. urge prayer and reflection as a new chapter unfolds amid uncertainty.

Faith leaders from Venezuela and the U.S. mobilize their congregations in prayer, calling for a peaceful transition after the capture of former President Nicolás Maduro. About 8 million Venezuelans have fled their homeland, with many seeking refuge in the U.S. as the political landscape shifts. While some express joy at the change in leadership, there remains a deep sense of concern about the future stability of the country and their status abroad, especially in light of recent policy changes affecting Venezuelan migrants.

In the aftermath of the U.S. military operation that led to the capture of Nicolás Maduro, faith leaders within Venezuela and the Venezuelan diaspora are coming together to ask for prayers and support for lasting peace and stability in their homeland. With emotions running high, both religious communities are expressing a mixture of hope and anxiety around the political changes.

Statements from the Catholic bishops and evangelical church leaders in Venezuela have focused on promoting calmness and patience, while many Venezuelan pastors in the U.S. have welcomed Maduro's ousting as a significant step towards progress. Miami's Catholic archbishop, overseeing the largest Venezuelan community in the United States, emphasized the church's vital role in guiding the country through this transitional phase.

Since 2014, nearly 8 million Venezuelans have left the country, with many settling in South America before seeking refuge in the United States, especially in regions like South Florida which now hosts a substantial Venezuelan population. Following Maduro's capture, celebrations erupted in Miami's streets as congregants waved flags and expressed their relief.

However, the joy is tempered by uncertainty about the future. The archbishop highlighted concerns regarding immigration status changes affecting many Venezuelans in the U.S., particularly following the cessation of two federal programs that allowed over 700,000 Venezuelans to live and work legally in the country.

Archbishop Wenski noted, “There’s a lot of uncertainty in Venezuela, and the church can be a beacon of hope, advocating for democracy and reconciliation among the polarized factions.” In Doral, a Miami suburb known for its significant Venezuelan population, leaders of the faith community are encouraging their earth to pray for justice and positive outcomes for their homeland.

In collaboration with various Venezuelan nonprofits, special gatherings for prayer and reflection took place, emphasizing a collective longing for peace and stability. As the uncertainties loom, many remain committed to supporting one another through faith and community efforts in this pivotal moment for Venezuela.