Aug 19, 2026
Br Deiby Fuenmayor MSC shares the latest update from the Venezuelan earthquake relief programme, following the double earthquake that shook the city of Caracas on June 24th. Aid efforts are ongoing following the disaster, and the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart in Venezuela are working in conjunction with Caritas Caracas to bring vital support to survivors of the quakes.
Today, we share the latest update from Br Deiby, featuring the most recent update on relief efforts in the wake of the disaster.
Click here to view the full report PDF.
UNITED IN FAITH, HOPE, AND CHARITY!
PASTORAL CALL, AWARENESS, AND GUIDANCE FOR SOLIDARITY ACTION IN THE FACE OF EMERGENCY
“55 days after that fateful June 24th, today, August 18, 2026, the Church, religious communities, and every man and woman of faith and goodwill remain standing, walking alongside our suffering people.”
SECTION I: THE MEMORY OF PAIN AND THE MAGNITUDE OF THE CRISIS
- 55 DAYS AFTER THE DOUBLE EARTHQUAKE
Last June 24, 2026, left an indelible mark on our homeland. A devastating double earthquake shook the foundations of our communities, destroying homes, churches, and livelihoods in a matter of seconds. Today, exactly 55 days later, the reality of the impact remains present. Wounds do not heal overnight, and the pain of so many families who lost everything demands a living memory that does not allow for forgetfulness or resignation
- DECREASE IN AID AND TIRELESS WORK
Over the weeks, contributions and supplies have dropped drastically: aid has decreased by more than 80%. However, this has not slowed down our commitment. Work continues tirelessly, maintaining constant support for those affected, touching hearts incessantly, and seeking innovative strategies to channel resources. Physical, moral, and spiritual reconstruction will continue for many months, making it vital to sustain our supportive presence alongside vulnerable families.
Medical and Cáritas field volunteers carrying out community outreach
SECTION II: AGGRAVATION OF REALITY AND NEW IMPACTS
- THE BRUNT OF SEVERE WEATHER AND PAIN IN LA GUAIRA
In recent days, intense and prolonged rainfall has battered affected areas. The rains have not only caused flooding but have destroyed the fragile shelters of thousands of our brothers and sisters. Tents and temporary structures set up outdoors have torn and soaked completely. Entire families—with children, the elderly, and the sick—are now exposed to the elements, cold weather, and imminent risk of disease, dramatically worsening daily suffering.
- EARLY MORNING PANIC ON AUGUST 18
As if the heavy weather were not enough, in the early morning of August 18, 2026, a new 4.6 magnitude earthquake centered in La Guaira State shook the ground once again. This new tremor generated severe panic among the population, reigniting psychological trauma and constant fear. Ground instability and emotional fragility make every aftershock a direct blow to the heart of the community.
SECTION III: INTERNATIONAL SOLIDARITY AND EMBRACE FROM CELAM
- GRATITUDE TO THE UNIVERSAL CHURCH AND SISTER ORGANIZATIONS
We give profound thanks to God that in the midst of this tribulation we have not been alone. We deeply recognize and appreciate the valuable solidarity of organizations such as Cáritas Germany, Cáritas Italy, and various institutions of the Catholic Church across Latin America and other parts of the globe, who have stood by us through prayer, fraternity, and concrete contributions to sustain our people’s hope.
Humanitarian donations, aid boxes, and supplies logistical preparation
- PASTORAL VISIT OF THE PRESIDENT OF CELAM
We highlight in a special way the recent presence in our country of the President of the Latin American Episcopal Council (CELAM), who is also Titular Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Cartagena. His pastoral visit was a true balm of comfort: he visited various locations across the Archdiocese of Caracas and the Diocese of La Guaira, listening attentively to the suffering and testimonies of affected families. In this fraternal encounter, we received an unconditional message of support from Catholic brothers and sisters in Colombia and throughout Latin America. In turn, deep solidarity and affection from the faithful people of God in Venezuela were expressed back to Colombia. This exchange reaffirms that faith transcends borders and unites us as one body in Christ.
Pastoral Visit meeting with clergy and volunteers on the ground
SECTION IV: AWARENESS AND SENSITIZATION: LET US NOT ABANDON OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS!
- LA GUAIRA AND OUR VICTIMS ARE NOT ALONE
We cannot allow exhaustion, routine, or habit to numb our capacity to feel others’ pain. We must not abandon La Guaira State; we must not abandon the victims. Behind every number, there are human faces: children who need warmth, elderly people requiring medicine, and families longing for a comforting word. Forgetting those who suffer outdoors today would mean abandoning the core mandate of Christian charity.
- SENSITIVITY AS AN ENGINE FOR CHANGE
To raise awareness is to open the eyes of the soul. It is remembering that solidarity is not giving away what we have left over, but sharing what we have with those who have nothing left. We make an urgent appeal to the collective conscience: the emergency is not over just because the cameras have turned off. Every person, family, and institution holds the opportunity to be an instrument of comfort through material contributions, prayer, and human closeness.
Support activities for children and families in disaster-affected areas
SECTION V: PASTORAL RESPONSE AND NETWORK OF FRATERNITY
- A CHURCH IN MOTION: PASTORAL CARE ON THE GROUND
In the face of adversity, the response of the Church does not stop. Under the active leadership of Parochial Caritas and the drive of Cáritas Caracas, work has not ceased for a single second. Pastoral action goes far beyond material assistance: it is a living presence that listens, embraces, strengthens faith, and evangelizes through the constant testimony of charity.
- RELIGIOUS COMMUNITIES AND FAITH-BASED VOLUNTEERS
Women and men religious communities, along with priests, deacons, and laypeople, have devoted themselves entirely to this reality. They remain on the ground sharing the fate of those most in need, cooking in community kitchens, providing emotional support, and acting as beacons of light. Likewise, Diocesan Caritas teams across the country continue to organize relentlessly, activating collection centers and reaching out to send constant aid to disaster zones.
SECTION VI: STRATEGIES, ALLIANCES, AND PERMANENT CALL TO ACTION
- DIALOGUE WITH BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS
To sustain aid over time despite shortages, direct dialogue strategies have been designed with the business sector, civil organizations, and foundations. This effort aims to build strategic partnerships to channel resources, medical supplies, construction materials, and food consistently. Social responsibility combined with faith in action are fundamental pillars for sustaining ground logistics.
Strategic planning meetings and media outreach efforts
- PRAYER AND COMMITMENT TO THE END
We make a passionate call to all faithful believers to continue praying fervently to the Lord so that He continues touching generous hearts. The Church and all people of goodwill reaffirm our commitment to continue accompanying, walking, and suffering alongside our brothers and sisters. We will not leave you alone. We will maintain aid, support, active listening, and contributions for as long as necessary, because in every neighbor in need lives the face of Christ.
Bro. Deiby Fuenmayor MSC
Parish Animator – La Santa Cruz
Cáritas Caracas
Caracas, August 18, 2026
Read Br Deiby’s last letter from Caracas
Read more about ongoing relief operations in Venezuela
Aug 19, 2026
Novena to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart 2026
Our annual Novena to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart is a beautiful time of reflection and thanksgiving, when we bring our prayers and petitions before Our Lady.
Our Novena of Masses runs for nine days and will take place from Monday, August 31st to Tuesday, September 8th.
All are welcome to join in this year’s Novena Masses, which will take place daily at 10.00am and 8.00pm at the Sacred Heart Church on the Western Road, Cork. Daily Novena Masses will also be available to watch live from the Sacred Heart Church, as we welcome those who cannot be with us in person.
Céad míle fáilte! The Sacred Heart Parish welcomes each and every one of our mission friends and parishioners, from near and far, to pray with us during this year’s Novena to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart.
Be part of this year’s Novena to the Sacred Heart
At this special time of year, you can help us to help others by supporting our ongoing mission projects, and in gratitude for your contribution, we will be glad to remember your intentions at our daily Novena Masses. You can then submit your personal prayers and intentions online, and our MSC priests will remember your petitions specially throughout the course of the Novena.
The theme of year’s Novena to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart will centre on Mary’s Journey in Dark Faith: Following the life of Mary in the Gospel. Our Novena Masses will be celebrated by Fr Patrick Younge OFM, a prominent member of the Franciscan Order.
Fr Patrick is currently active with the Diocese of Cork & Ross, most recently in the Diocesan Celebration of Consecrated Life. He previously served for six years as the Guardian at the Abbey Franciscan Friary in Galway. He has long-standing historical connection to the Franciscan Friary in Killarney, Co. Kerry, and even authored a historical booklet regarding its heritage. He frequently contributes reflections on prayer, including his widely shared piece the Inner Thirst on prayer, published through religious communities like the Poor Clares Galway. His family ties trace back to Dalkey, Co. Dublin. Each day of the Novena, Fr Pat will preach a short homily.
Each year, the Novena to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart offers great solace and comfort to all who take part, as we bring our prayers and personal intentions before our Holy Mother. As we navigate the ongoing challenges of our troubled world, we come together in the spirit of hope, reflection, and thanksgiving at this sacred time. All are very welcome to join us, in person and online, for our Novena Masses as we come together to reflect and give thanks in the grace and love of Our Lady.
OLSH Novena at the Sacred Heart Church, Western Road, Cork
Daily Novena Masses:
10.00am & 8.00pm
Special Dates to Note
Day of Reconciliation:
Saturday, September 5th
(Reconciliation Mass at 10.00am only)
Day of Healing:
Healing Service and Anointing on Monday, September 7th,
with additional Healing Service at 3.00pm in the Sacred Heart Hall
Fr John Fitzgerald MSC prays at the Sacred Heart Church during our 2025 Novena to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart.
For those who cannot be with us in person, you are very welcome to join us for our daily online Novena Masses on our live stream, united in spirit as we pray together as a great family of faith.
We welcome each and every one of you to this year’s Novena to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart.
We hope and pray that these nine days of prayer will be a grace-filled and blessed time for all of us.
TAKE PART IN OUR 2026 OLSH NOVENA
Find out more about the Blue Book of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart.
Aug 13, 2026
Br Deiby Fuenmayor MSC shares the latest update from the Venezuelan earthquake relief programme, following the double earthquake that shook the city of Caracas on June 24th. Aid efforts are ongoing following the disaster, and the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart in Venezuela are working in conjunction with Caritas Caracas to bring vital support to survivors of the quakes.
Today, we share the latest update from Br Deiby, featuring the most recent report on humanitarian response in the wake of the disaster.
MEMORY AND MISSION OF THE CHURCH FOLLOWING THE DOUBLE SEISMIC EVENT
Pastoral Report & Humanitarian Response
Please click here to view the full report PDF.
Memory and Mission of the Church Following the Double Seismic Event
On June 24, the earth shook in the capital city, Caracas, and in La Guaira state. The impact of this double seismic event not only fractured infrastructure and homes, but also claimed human lives and brought deep pain to hundreds of families who lost loved ones, homes, or are currently living in houses at high risk of collapse. However, amidst the distress, the certainty of faith reminds us that the Lord never abandons His people. With our eyes set on Jesus Christ, we renew our trust that God has granted eternal life to every brother and sister who passed away, while maintaining constant prayer for the healing of those left physically, psychologically, and emotionally broken.
Immediate Response from the Chevalier Family and the Ecclesial Structure
From the very first moments after the emergency, the Church’s response unfolded swiftly to embody the compassion of Christ. The Missionaries of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, together with the laity of the Chevalier Family, took on the mission of reaching out to those suffering, making them feel God’s infinite love in their darkest hour. This work gained strength through coordination with various archpriestships, highlighting the extraordinary and dedicated service of the Propatria archpriestship and neighboring parishes. Temples and community spaces became centers of welcome and solidarity for the most vulnerable families.
Pastoral Synergy: Deployment of Cáritas in the Territory
Humanitarian action and logistical support were strengthened through unified efforts between Cáritas Caracas, Cáritas La Guaira, and Cáritas Venezuela. This alliance enabled direct aid through the distribution of food, drinking water, basic household items, and hygiene kits.
In parallel, comprehensive medical days were organized to treat physical injuries, diagnose illnesses, and provide essential medicine to survivors, guaranteeing holistic care that immediately addresses the most pressing material needs.
Gratitude to Solidarity and Benefactors
Along this journey, we express special gratitude to all men and women of faith and goodwill who, with generous hearts, have contributed through their income and donations via different Cáritas locations, both nationally and internationally. Every contribution and act of solidarity has truly been a blessing from heaven to aid, accompany, and provide everything our brothers and sisters need during these crucial moments in their history and the history of our country.
Presence in Shelters, Pastoral Care of Listening, and Encouragement for Volunteers
The presence of the Church, apostolic groups, and Cáritas has been prioritised across all temporary camps and shelters. In these places, God’s Word, spiritual support, and a constant pastoral care of listening are brought to those staying there for safety or having lost their homes.
Likewise, this mission extends a deep message of encouragement, strength, and gratitude—in Jesus’ name—to all volunteers who make up the shelter teams. With high responsibility, dedication, love, and selflessness, these men and women care daily for the affected families. This spiritual work is complemented by catechetical training, moments of prayer, and recreational activities that restore hope to children.
Permanent Commitment and Hope Along the Way
Despite the fury of nature and the challenges of the reconstruction process, the ecclesial presence remains steadfast and ready to continue serving in the territory. The Church does not step back after the initial emergency; it reaffirms its commitment to continue walking alongside the suffering people and supporting those who serve with dedication in every camp.
With our eyes fixed on Jesus, the source of life and comfort, the Christian community remains united in prayer, bearing witness to a living faith that transforms pain into fraternity and active hope.
Bro. Deiby Fuenmayor MSC
Pastoral Animator
Caracas, August 12, 2026
Read Br Deiby’s last letter from Caracas
Read more about ongoing relief operations in Venezuela
Aug 13, 2026
The MSC Centre for the Poor and the extended community in the Philippines have been working throughout the summer to bring aid to survivors of an earthquake and flash flood that devastated the region of Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental, in July.
“Help is on the way!” posted their Facebook page in mid-July. “The MSC Center for the Poor team is on its way to Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental to bring hope and support to families affected by the recent earthquake and flash flood.”
The team were armed with a plan to support 250 families affected by the disaster, through the distribution of relief packages and Psychological First Aid. “Together, may we become instruments of compassion and hope for our brothers and sisters,” wrote the Facebook page for the MSC Centre for the Poor.
Two days later, the Facebook page posted news of the team’s successful arrival at the relief site. “Despite the challenging and hazardous road condition, the MSC Center for the Poor Relief Team has safely reached one of the communities severely affected by the earthquake and landslides in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental,” they wrote.
Finally, on July 18th, the relief team posted news of a successful mission accomplished. “The MSC Center for the Poor successfully carried out its Relief Operation and Psychological First Aid for families affected by the earthquake and flash floods in Brgy. Magulibas, Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental last July 16, 2026. A total of 100 families received assistance through the provision of rice, food packs, cash support, and psychological first aid, bringing hope and comfort during this difficult time.”
The project aimed to reach 250 families, but extremely hazardous conditions made further travel impossible at this time. The mission still ensured that the emergency supplies reached those in need, although the full team were unable to get to the site. “Although our team was unable to reach the devastated community of Brgy. Nuing due to landslides that made the roads impassable, we were still able to extend our support by sending 150 sacks of rice, 10 boxes of drinking water, and food items through the parish to ensure that help reached those in need.”
“Despite the long, difficult, and dangerous journey, our mission was successfully accomplished through God’s grace and the generosity of many compassionate people.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the MSC Mission Office for facilitating the donation drive, to all our donors, benefactors, volunteers, and everyone who supported this mission. Your generosity has become a source of hope and healing for our brothers and sisters affected by this disaster.
Together, we continue to be instruments of God’s love and compassion. May God bless you all!”
Our prayers remain with all those affected by the earthquake and flash flood, and all who have worked so hard and given so much to help at the MSC Centre for the Poor and beyond.
Images via the Facebook page for the MSC Centre for the Poor.
Aug 11, 2026
Br Deiby Fuenmayor MSC shares the latest update from the Venezuelan earthquake relief programme, following the double earthquake that shook the city of Caracas on June 24th. Aid efforts are ongoing following the disaster, and the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart in Venezuela are working in conjunction with Caritas Caracas to bring vital support to survivors of the quakes.
Today, we share the latest update from Br Deiby, featuring the most recent report on the ecclesiastical mission in the wake of the disaster.
SHADOW AND HOPE
The Ecclesial Mission Following the Tragedy
Accompaniment, Faith, and Solidarity in Caracas and La Guaira
Please click here to view the full report PDF.
On June 24, a historic mark was left on Venezuela due to the devastating impact of the double earthquake that severely shook the national territory, with the city of Caracas and the state of La Guaira being the most affected epicenters. Faced with the pain of material loss and the regrettable physical departure of numerous brothers and sisters, the human and Christian response was immediate, transforming collective grief into a vast network of fraternity and uninterrupted service.
The Living Presence of the Church on the Ground
Given the magnitude of the emergency, diocesan and parish service structures deployed an immediate and sustained effort. The coordinated labor between Cáritas Caracas, Cáritas La Guaira, various religious congregations, priests, and an innumerable contingent of faithful men and women has represented a living light of hope amid the ruins.
This extraordinary dedication has materialized in the receipt, sorting, and transparent distribution of all supplies and provisions collected at official collection centers, meticulously organized by both the Archdiocese of Caracas and the Diocese of La Guaira. Each package delivered carries not only material relief, but also the comforting embrace of an entire community that refuses to leave anyone behind.
“We ask the Lord to reward all our deceased brothers and sisters with eternal life, and that those who are still on their pilgrimage carry in their hearts the firm conviction that God accompanies, listens to, and walks beside His beloved people.”
Comprehensive Care in Shelters and Temporary Camps
At the heart of this humanitarian effort, the work of La Santa Cruz Parish together with the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC) stands out. Their constant presence in temporary camps and shelter centers located within the parish jurisdiction as well as in other key areas of the Propatria Archpriestship encompasses comprehensive and cross-cutting care:
The Ministry of Listening: Spaces for emotional relief and support for families impacted by loss and trauma.
Sacramental Accompaniment: Celebration of faith, reconciliation, and the Eucharist, renewing the spiritual strength of those affected.
Recreational and Community Spaces: Activities directed toward children, youth, and older adults to instill joy and restore community routine.
United in Divine Providence
Despite physical adversity and the complexity of the situation, the Venezuelan Church reaffirms its absolute trust in God’s Providence. The solidarity shown by institutions, volunteers, and individuals continues to be received with deep gratitude, allowing care to remain steady during the most complex stages of recovery.
The testimony of communion and pastoral and priestly dedication throughout the Propatria and Catia Archpriestship confirms that, even amid rubble and uncertainty, charity and hope remain firm and unwavering.
Fraternally,
Br. Deiby Fuenmayor, MSC
Pastoral Animator
Caracas, August 8, 2026
Read Br Deiby’s last letter from Caracas
Read more about ongoing relief operations in Venezuela
Aug 6, 2026
In July, Ecuadorian Section Leader Fr Marcelo Campoverde MSC led a special Mass at a local cemetery in remembrance of loved ones who have gone to their eternal rest in the Lord’s embrace. The ceremony was both poignant and uplifting, as the community remembered their dead and celebrated their earthly lives and loves.
The MSC mission in Ecuador is looking forward to an exciting August, with a third Ecuadorian priest, Diego, due to be ordained on August 8th. “We are working to place greater emphasis on youth and vocation ministry,” writes Fr Marcelo. “Diego will be the one leading this work, utilizing social media and working with young people in our parishes. I ask for your prayers for him.”
We pray for Diego, Fr Marcelo, and all on the MSC mission in Ecuador, with every grace and blessing of the Sacred Heart. We remain truly grateful for the support of our mission friends and benefactors here at home, which goes such a long way in helping Fr Marcelo and indigenous communities in Ecuador. May God bless you all.
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