Venezuelan Episcopal Conference Reports 94 Religious Structures Damaged by Earthquakes

A preliminary assessment by the Venezuelan Episcopal Conference (CEV) has identified 94 Catholic churches and related buildings damaged by earthquakes that struck on June 24. Inspections are ongoing across affected regions to determine the full extent of the damage.

The CEV reported that the affected structures include 85 churches, chapels, six parish and retreat houses, a hospital, a seminary, and an ecclesiastical office. The damage is concentrated in the dioceses of La Guaira, Maracay, San Felipe, Puerto Cabello, and Los Teques, as well as the archdioceses of Caracas, Valencia, Barquisimeto, and Coro.

Among the most impacted areas, the Diocese of Maracay reported 24 damaged temples, the Archdiocese of Caracas reported 22, and the Diocese of La Guaira reported 15. Other affected jurisdictions include San Felipe with eight buildings, Coro with seven, Puerto Cabello with six, Los Teques with four, and Barquisimeto with two.

The CEV emphasized that these religious spaces are more than just buildings; they are vital community gathering points, places of prayer, and sources of hope for thousands of faithful. The conference assured its pastoral support for the affected populations and expressed gratitude for the solidarity shown during recovery efforts.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Works is proceeding with a plan to restore 36 churches damaged by the tremors. The initial phase will focus on 26 churches in Caracas and 10 in La Guaira. Many of these structures are between 200 and 300 years old, possessing significant religious and heritage value, necessitating detailed structural diagnostics before rehabilitation work can begin.