More than 400 worshippers gathered at Our Saviour Church in The Hague on 12 July for a Eucharistic celebration in memory of the victims of the devastating earthquakes that struck Venezuela on 24 June 2026. The Mass was organized by H.E. Dr. Héctor Constant Rosales, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to the OPCW and other international organizations and tribunals in the Netherlands, together with the team of the Permanent Mission.
The commemorative service brought together members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, representatives of international organizations based in The Hague, solidarity groups, friends of Venezuela, and members of the wider community.
The Eucharistic celebration was officiated by Father Sjaak de Boer, who delivered a moving homily dedicated to the victims, their families, and all those affected by the disaster, while offering a message of hope and solidarity to the Venezuelan people.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Constant Rosales was invited to light a candle in memory of the victims, followed by a minute of silence observed by the congregation. At the conclusion of the Mass, he expressed his gratitude for the many messages of support received from the international community and reaffirmed his confidence that Venezuela would overcome this difficult period. He also emphasized that all peoples deserve to live in peace and prosperity.
During Holy Communion, images of Our Lady of Coromoto, Patroness of Venezuela, Saint José Gregorio Hernández, and Saint Carmen Rendiles were projected, while Venezuelan melodies performed by Maestro Martín “El Guaca” Mayo accompanied the solemn moment.
Our Saviour Church is home to approximately 1,700 registered families representing nearly 97 nationalities, reflecting the international spirit of solidarity that marked the celebration.
International Solidarity and Appeal for Reconstruction
Following the earthquakes, the Permanent Mission of Venezuela expressed its heartfelt appreciation for the many expressions of solidarity received from governments, international organizations, rescue teams, private initiatives, and friends of Venezuela around the world.
International rescue brigades and humanitarian assistance have complemented the tireless efforts of Venezuelans working on relief operations and supporting affected communities.
To assist ongoing emergency response and long-term reconstruction efforts, the Venezuelan Mission has encouraged those wishing to contribute to make voluntary financial donations through a dedicated account managed by the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF).
Ambassador Constant Rosales noted that every contribution, regardless of its size, represents a meaningful act of solidarity that can help rebuild communities and restore hope to those affected by the disaster.
The Permanent Mission expressed its sincere gratitude to all who have extended their support, reaffirming that the friendship and generosity of the international community continue to make a significant difference during this challenging time.
Venezuela Recovery and Reconstruction Fund
Beneficiary: Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF)
Account Number: 30096066
Beneficiary Bank: Mercantil Banco S.A.
Panama City, Panama
SWIFT Code: MPANPAPA
Currency: US Dollars (USD)
Intermediary Banks:
- Standard Chartered Bank – SWIFT: SCBLUS33
- Amerant Bank, N.A. – SWIFT: MNBMUS33
- JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. – SWIFT: CHASUS33
