Caracas: As the immediate shock of devastating earthquakes fades from public attention, affected communities in Venezuela and Colombia continue to face loss, displacement and uncertainty. The Catholic Church is remaining alongside families who are still struggling to rebuild their lives.
The suffering continues long after the tremors
In Venezuela, more than two months after the June 24 earthquake, communities in La Guaira continue to cope with the consequences. Hospitals, shelters and affected neighbourhoods remain places where people need not only material assistance but also emotional and spiritual support.
Four Spanish religious sisters from the Servants of the Home of the Mother travelled to Venezuela during the summer after contacting the Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Alberto Ortega Martín, and Caracas Archbishop Raúl Biord Castillo. Led by Sister Paqui Morales, they visited hospitals, shelters and communities, offering prayers, Holy Communion and words of comfort.
Faith brings comfort amid the ruins
In La Guaira, the sisters organised a Eucharistic mission, visiting shelters and inviting survivors to Holy Mass and Holy Hour. One celebration was held amid the ruins, giving those who had lost their homes an opportunity to pray and find hope.
The local Church has also continued collecting and distributing food, clothing, hygiene products and medicines, while priests and religious provide pastoral care to the sick and distressed. Material assistance is being handed over to civil authorities for distribution in shelters.
Colombia keeps reaching remote communities
In Colombia, the Church’s relief response continues through Caritas, dioceses and parishes, particularly in rural and difficult-to-reach areas affected by the August 10 earthquake in Chocó.
The Episcopal Conference has also announced that the national “Dona Nobis 2026” collection will support dioceses affected by the disaster, reinforcing efforts to reach communities across the region.
The continuing response reflects a simple message: when the cameras move away and the emergency headlines fade, solidarity remains essential for families beginning the long journey towards recovery.