On the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, the Latin American and Caribbean Episcopal Council (CELAM) addressed a message of closeness and hope to the Church and the Venezuelan people, echoing Christian hope and commitment to a future of peace and reconciliation. The message, signed by the members of the organization’s Presidency, expresses deep solidarity with the difficulties the nation is facing and invites a renewed faith in a God who walks alongside the people in moments of darkness.

God is close to the people

“Celebrating the Epiphany at this time means renewing our faith in God who is close to the people, who walks with them, illuminates the night, and opens new paths even when everything seems uncertain,” the organization stated in its letter in Spanish addressed to the Venezuelan Church. The celebration of the Epiphany, they reminded us, brings to mind the light that Christ brings to the world, a light that “no one can extinguish.”

Throughout the message, special emphasis is placed on Our Lady of Coromoto, Patroness of Venezuela, and her intercession is entrusted with the cause of peace and unity for the Venezuelan people. “We entrust this time and this journey to the loving intercession of Our Lady of Coromoto, Mother of the Venezuelan people,” the statement reads, appealing to popular devotion and the spiritual comfort she represents for the nation.

The message also includes the words of Pope Leo XIV, who, after the Marian prayer of the Angelus on Sunday, January 4, 2026, underscored the urgent need to place the good of the people above all other considerations. In its statement, CELAM emphasizes the importance of overcoming violence, respecting human dignity, and committing to social justice.

An appeal for unity and reconciliation

In a context of division and internal tensions, CELAM issues a clear appeal for national reconciliation. “The Church is called to be an open home, a space for encounter, and a serene voice that encourages hope, even amid difficulties,” the text emphasizes. “We want to reaffirm that you are not alone. CELAM walks with you and with all the Venezuelan people, encouraging every effort to build bridges, heal wounds, and promote reconciliation, excluding no one.”

The Latin American Episcopal Council reiterates its commitment to building a future of dignity for all Venezuelans, stressing that unity, mutual respect, and solidarity are essential to move toward a future of peace. “We firmly believe that walking together, listening to one another with respect, and seeking the common good is the path the Lord proposes to us today,” affirmed the Latin American and Caribbean bishops.

“Wherever there is truth, justice, mercy, and care for the most vulnerable, God is manifested anew as in Bethlehem,” the Latin American bishops concluded, inviting the community to entrust itself to the intercession of the first two Venezuelan Saints, Dr. José Gregorio Hernández and Mother Carmen Rendiles, canonized on October 19, 2025, who continue to be beacons of hope in the country.