What in the World is Happening in Venezuela: A Call to Prayer from Pastors on the Ground

Most people have at least a basic understanding of the difficulties that have plagued the recent past in Venezuela. After over 3 decades of oppressive government, starting with Hugo Chavez and the socialist revolution in 1999, the result has been the humanitarian crisis most people are familiar with in our current day: limited food, water, energy, persecution against the church, dangerous levels of crime, impenetrable levels of corruption, and nearly 25% of the total population (7.9 million people) fleeing the country.

The recent events in Venezuela, with the US government swooping in under the cover of darkness and capturing Nicolas Maduro, have left many people wondering, “What in the world is going on in Venezuela now?” and more importantly, “What does this mean for the Christian church and our brothers and sisters in Christ?”, “Has this change in leadership resulted in more religious liberties?”, “How does this affect ministry efforts in Venezuela in the future?”

Currently, the political climate remains the same if not worse according to our pastors on the ground. Delcy Rodriguez, former vice president under Maduro, is currently serving as interim president after having demonstrated a willingness to cooperate with the United States, and she holds the backing of Venezuela’s supreme court and military. Sworn in two days post-Maduro’s capture, she is the daughter of a well-known Venezuelan socialist and has held the support and approval of Maduro for years after serving his regime in various capacities before she was vice president. Therefore, while the US may now hold more political influence in the region, situations have not changed or gotten worse politically, socially, and economically for the average Venezuelan.

With the difficulties facing Venezuelans, we have seen a pronounced hunger for the gospel and a seeking of spiritual truth. Our ministry participation continues to grow even in the face of persecution. By God’s grace, your support is directly equipping those on the front lines of this crisis:

• Legacy of Leadership: We’ve celebrated more than 400 graduates in our Bible school since November 2025 who are now serving as salt and light throughout the region.

• Current Training: 300 students are currently enrolled in our programs.

• Pastoral Support: Among our current student body, 100 active pastors are balancing the weight of their family needs with the responsibility of shepherding their congregations through a national transformation.

What our 100 Pastors Face Daily

• Economic Strain: Inflation remains high, and the cost of a basic food basket is now beyond the reach of the average family, making “daily bread” a literal prayer for many.

• Social Infrastructure: Public services, including electricity and healthcare, continue to experience frequent disruptions, placing additional burdens on those trying to study and lead congregations.

• Political Persecution: In addition to the economic difficulties, pastors continue to be jailed if they protest or preach on the streets, and as in the past, they face the risk of forced property confiscation from the government.

We desired to provide this update, one to inform you of the current political status of the country, as much of it has faded to the backdrop of American news, but most importantly, we wanted to update you on the realities we are hearing from our pastors on the ground in Venezuela. The time they are currently living in is ripe with opportunity for freedom and the gospel to go forth. Would you consider joining us in prayer for the church as a whole in Venezuela, but specifically for these 100 pastors we are currently ministering to?

Prayer Points for Venezuela

• For Provision and Health: Pray for our 300 current students, many of whom face daily food and medicine shortages. Ask the Lord to supernaturally provide for their physical needs so they can focus on their studies.

• For Pastoral Strength: Lift up the 100 pastors currently studying with us. Pray for a spiritual “second wind” as they provide emotional and spiritual care to communities weary from years of crisis.

• For National Peace and Wisdom: Intercede for the interim leadership and the international community as they navigate the country’s transition. Pray for a peaceful path forward that prioritizes the dignity and safety of the Venezuelan people.

• For the “Persevering Spirit”: Give thanks for the evident commitment and attitude of our students. Pray that their perseverance would be a testimony to their neighbors and that their “hunger” for the gospel would spark a revival in their cities.

• For the Graduates: Pray for our 400+ alumni scattered across Venezuela. Ask that they would remain firm in the truths they learned and continue to be bold messengers of hope.

Images taken from recent OMI Bible school trainings and graduations.

To further participate with One More International's ministry in Venezuela, visit our PARTNER page on the website.