Support and closeness to our brothers in Venezuela

The terrible earthquake that struck Venezuela on June 24 also affected the Friars Minor of the Franciscan Custody of the Immaculate Conception. The Custos, Br. Antonio Reyes, announced that there were no injuries or casualties among the friars, but that extensive material damage was reported to Franciscan structures, as was dramatically the case in the areas of the country hit by the earthquake.

“I have been in communication with all the brothers and, thank God, they are well, without having suffered any personal physical harm,” Br. Antonio communicated to the Order’s Government, which promptly contacted the brothers of the Custody to express their closeness and understand the gravity of the situation.

The convent and church of Christ the King in Caracas suffered damage, but now the priority is to help the survivors and the injured. The friars are tirelessly working to help those affected by the earthquake: “As time passes, we are realizing the magnitude of the situation,” the Custos continued. “We were not prepared for this, in every sense. Rescue operations are very precarious and even rudimentary due to the lack of adequate equipment and qualified personnel. Many are helping with their bare hands, using cell phones to light their way. The aftershocks were very close and strong, and they are still being felt. But in this difficult situation, we continue to trust in God, and, placed in His hands, we continue to walk in Hope.”

The Order of Friars Minor expresses its closeness to the brothers in Venezuela and supports the fundraising campaign that the Fondazione OFM Fraternitas has launched for the earthquake victims: click here to join.