The Caribbean Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints expressed sorrow and support after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on June 24, 2026. According to a Church Newsroom release, the presidency issued a statement for those facing uncertainty, damage, and concern in the aftermath.
The Church of Jesus Christ did not provide details about damage, injuries, or relief efforts in the release. Instead, Church leaders focused their message on compassion, prayer, and solidarity with the people of Venezuela.
The Area Presidency Speaks to Those Affected
“We are deeply saddened by the recent earthquakes that have affected Venezuela, causing moments of uncertainty and concern for many people and families,” the Caribbean Area Presidency said. The statement acknowledged the emotional weight of the earthquakes without attempting to describe the full extent of the damage.
The Area Presidency also said, “We express our sincere support, solidarity and prayers for all those affected.” That message placed the Church beside the people and families now dealing with the effects of the disaster.
The Caribbean Area Presidency continued, “In these difficult times, we stand with the Venezuelan people, hoping they find strength, peace, and solace as they face this situation.” The statement did not separate Church members from the broader community, but spoke of the Venezuelan people as a whole.
A Personal Connection Shared Online
As news of the earthquakes spread, some people with personal ties to Venezuela shared memories, grief, and concern online. One Facebook post from Aaron Johnston, who said he served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Venezuela 30 years ago, reflected the deep connection many former missionaries and Venezuelans still feel toward the country.
Johnston wrote that he still has “a deep and abiding love for the country, its people, and culture.” He also said the earthquakes struck near an area connected to his missionary service.
“The epicenter of the earthquakes is located a brief drive northeast of one of the places where I lived, within our mission boundaries,” Johnston wrote. “Streets where I used to walk are likely riddled with rubble and grief.”
His post included a before-and-after photo of a hotel destroyed in the earthquake. The image, paired with his memories of Venezuela, showed how quickly a distant disaster becomes personal for those who know and love the affected places.
Johnston also expressed concern about Venezuela’s ability to respond to the earthquakes. “The infrastructure in Venezuela is terribly fragile and antiquated,” he wrote.
He shared similar worries about the country’s medical and emergency systems. “As a third-world country, Venezuela’s healthcare system and disaster-response capabilities are woefully inadequate for a disaster of this scale,” he wrote.
Standing With the Venezuelan People
Johnston made clear that his concern extended beyond those currently living in the affected areas. He said his prayers were with “the people, long-seen friends who live there, and all of my dear Venezuelan friends who have migrated to our country in pursuit of greater freedoms and opportunities.”
He also acknowledged the pain Venezuelans outside the country may now feel as they think of family and friends back home. His post described not only a disaster in one location, but a grief shared across distance by people with deep ties to Venezuela.
The Church’s statement and Johnston’s public reflection both centered on concern for the people affected by the earthquakes. The Caribbean Area Presidency offered support, solidarity, and prayers as Venezuelan communities face uncertainty and loss.
In its closing message, the Caribbean Area Presidency expressed hope that those affected would find strength through unity and service. “We pray that hope, unity, and the spirit of service will prevail, and that the affected communities will find support and strength in the midst of adversity.”
Share your prayers and support for the people of Venezuela in the comments below.
Holly Wallace is a writer and storyteller drawn to meaningful questions and overlooked details. Her work explores Latter-day Saint life and culture through faithful inquiry, inviting readers to pause, consider, and engage more deeply with what matters most.
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