Dominican Sisters ~ Grand Rapids
STATEMENT ON VENEZUELA
January 5, 2026
At the start of another year, one where we were filled with hope that peace would prevail for all God’s people, we Dominican Sisters of Grand Rapids, faithful to our charism of preaching Truth, raise our voices in clear condemnation of the reports of U.S. military strikes on Venezuela and the forced removal of its leadership in the early morning hours of January 3, 2026. This action, without authorization from Congress, violates U.S. and international law. We make this statement rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the social teaching of the Catholic Church.
As women formed in contemplation and called to preach, we cannot remain silent in the face of this violent action. As Pope Francis repeatedly reminded the world, as had others before him, “war is always a defeat for humanity.”
As we know from the recent experience of Ukraine and Gaza, war and aggression always result in immeasurable suffering for those who are vulnerable, especially women, children, and the elderly. We affirm the dignity of the Venezuelan people and their right to live in peace, self-determination, and justice, free from fear and coercion.
In solidarity with the people of Venezuela, we commit ourselves to prayer, advocacy for peace, and accompaniment of those who suffer the consequences of conflict and displacement. We urge the United States to cease all military operations immediately, respect international law and the sovereignty of nations, and pursue multi-lateral diplomacy. We also call upon Congress to reassert its constitutional responsibility and authority to stop any further military action by our Administration.
May the Spirit of peace soften hearts, guide leaders, and lead all nations away from violence and toward reconciliation.
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Invitation to Further Action
“Let us continue to have faith in the God of peace. Let us pray and stand in solidarity with the peoples who suffer because of wars” said Pope Leo, Sunday, January 4, 2026.
Please consider taking the next step in solidarity with the Venezuelan people. If you feel called to use your voice, here are a few ways to respond:
- Pray and stand in solidarity. Hold the people of Venezuela in prayer, especially those most vulnerable to violence and displacement. You may wish to use this prayer from the Maryknoll Office of Global Concerns
- Join the LCWR 24-Hour Prayer Vigil
Consider joining the 24-Hour LCWR Prayer Vigil on Monday, January 19, honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Together we will pray for nonviolent responses to aggression in our world—and within our own hearts.
Join via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88345486734
- Raise your voice. Consider signing the action alert from the Maryknoll Office of Global Concerns, which invites you to write to your members of Congress, urging them to halt further military action and to pursue diplomacy rooted in peace and respect for international law.
- Study. Venezuela is at a critical moment, yet the voices of its people are often missing. Join a webinar with the Maryknoll Office for Global Concerns featuring returned lay missioners who have lived and served in Venezuela and Latin America, sharing firsthand insights shaped by their lived experiences. Thursday, January 8 at 11:30am ET
- Stay Informed. Commit time each day to reading or listening to reputable news sources so that you are well informed and able to engage thoughtfully in conversation, advocacy, and decision-making. Deep listening and careful discernment are essential to moral witness.
