Episcopal Church of Venezuela Critiques Government’s Response to Earthquake

The Episcopal Church of Venezuela (CEV), the country’s top church authority, has publicly denounced the socialist government’s failure to assist the victims of June’s devastating earthquake.

In a statement backed by the nation’s Catholic bishops, the CEV emphasized that while natural disasters are often unforeseen, it remains the government’s responsibility to adequately respond. This has resonated deeply with many Venezuelans, who feel abandoned by the socialist regime following the disaster.

On June 24, Venezuela experienced a severe natural disaster, marked by two earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale that struck within seconds of each other.

As of Thursday morning, official reports indicated at least 5,398 fatalities and over 16,740 injuries. The earthquakes caused significant destruction, with nearly 200 buildings completely destroyed and over 60,000 potentially damaged. The housing structures constructed by the socialist government have come under scrutiny for their poor quality; many reportedly collapsed almost immediately during the tremors.

Most of the devastation was observed in La Guaira, a state along the northern coast. Reports noted widespread building collapses and damage extending into Caracas and surrounding areas. The government claims that more than 23,300 individuals are now homeless, residing in 107 temporary shelters.

The government’s inadequate response to the earthquake has drawn considerable criticism in the weeks since the disaster. It’s become evident that Venezuela was ill-equipped to deal with such a calamity, largely attributed to nearly thirty years of socialist mismanagement and corruption. Both public and private healthcare sectors have been struggling with persistent shortages, and the situation continues to deteriorate due to a failing power grid and ineffective water infrastructure.

On Tuesday, the CEV issued a report titled “Samaritan, Witness of Hope” to mark one month since the earthquake. The Venezuelan bishops conveyed that meaningful recovery requires the Church to connect with the “outrage” of victims who feel overlooked by governmental institutions.

“Natural disasters, as we’ve reiterated, are not predictable,” the CEV remarked. “However, government agencies must be prepared to tackle such calamities.”

They added, “We must prevent repeating past mistakes in the recovery effort, or else the most vulnerable will again bear the brunt of negligence and corruption.”

In their message, the bishops extended spiritual support to the victims, affirming that “God is present in the victims and in those who assist those in need.” They urged against viewing the tragedy as a form of “divine punishment,” pointing out that earthquakes are part of natural geological processes. Instead, they advocated for genuine compassion to alleviate the suffering of those who have lost so much.

The bishops called for any recovery efforts in Venezuela to be transparent and efficient, ensuring that the needs of the most vulnerable are addressed and that past errors are not repeated.

Looking forward, the CEV plans to shift focus to recovery efforts, stressing the importance of adequate housing and jobs for affected families while also tending to emotional and spiritual needs.

To aid in the nation’s spiritual recovery, the bishops invited all Venezuelans to join Masses in various parishes on June 24, exactly one month since the earthquake. During these services, prayers will be offered for peace for the deceased and strength for the nation.

The bishops acknowledged the efforts of rescue workers and community members who contributed to relief efforts, recognizing them as “Main Samaritans” amid the crisis. CEV expressed gratitude to international support from various countries and organizations, highlighting the assistance provided to victims regardless of differing beliefs or ideologies.

The United States has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts for Venezuela, contributing over $310 million in aid and utilizing logistical support from U.S. Southern Command. Additionally, other countries like El Salvador, Israel, Argentina, and Italy have also provided humanitarian assistance.