Catholic Church launches family support initiatives in Venezuela and Ecuador

The Diocese of Acarigua-Araure in Venezuela has launched its 36th 'Abrazo en Familia' (Family Embrace) campaign. Led by Bishop Gerardo Ernesto Salas Arjona, the initiative aims to address affective, spiritual, and social wounds within Venezuelan households by promoting forgiveness, reconciliation, and core values during the ongoing crisis.

The campaign focuses on five central themes, including discerning joy amidst crisis and strengthening family communication. The program will involve community outreach through local parishes to provide spiritual guidance and formation tools.

In Ecuador, the Apostolic Vicariate of Puyo has officially inaugurated the 'Year of the Family,' a program running until June 2027. Bishop Rafael Cob García introduced the theme 'Family on the way, missionary of peace and hope,' highlighting challenges such as human mobility, labor precariousness, and the impact of digital transformation on youth.

The Vicariate plans to establish Family Pastoral groups in 22 parishes that currently lack them. The initiative is open to all households regardless of religious belief or marital status, offering workshops and spiritual accompaniment to strengthen domestic bonds.