- January 7, 2026
Standing with the People of Venezuela
Adapted from a statement by the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR)
Rooted in our charism of profound love of God and love of neighbor without distinction, the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Louis Province affirm the dignity, value and rights of every person. We hold sacred all human life.
We stand in solidarity with our sisters and brothers of the Confederation of Latin American Religious (CLAR) and with the consistent teaching of the Catholic Church in opposing the use of military force to resolve political crises. Violence does not bring peace; it deepens suffering and places the most vulnerable at greatest risk.
We believe in the power of dialogue, negotiation and diplomacy. We call upon the United States Congress to exercise its constitutional and moral responsibility regarding any use of force that violates our shared commitment to protect human life and the common good. We urge the Administration and all members of Congress to cease military involvement in Venezuela and to support international efforts that foster fair elections and conditions where democracy can flourish.
The people of Venezuela deserve the freedom to determine their own future without coercion or external domination. As Sisters of St. Joseph, we extend this same solidarity to all peoples throughout Latin America whose sovereignty and democratic aspirations are threatened, for they too are our dear neighbors.
We invite all people of faith to join us in prayer for the people of Venezuela and for global leaders. We pray that their decisions may be guided by wisdom, restraint and genuine concern for the common good.
Living our mission calls us to remain informed, to listen deeply and to engage in prayerful discernment. We refuse to contribute to hatred, fear or division. Instead, we claim our call as bearers of unifying love and as people of hope, trusting that faithful action grounded in compassion can shape a future worthy of our shared humanity.
Click here to read the full statement from LCWR.