Two powerful earthquakes struck northern Venezuela just 39 seconds apart on 24 June 2026, causing widespread destruction. Authorities have declared a national state of emergency, with more than 1,900 people confirmed dead, thousands injured or missing, and millions of people affected. The coastal state of La Guaira was among the hardest-hit areas, with immense damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.
For those who survived the earthquake, the disaster has created an escalating humanitarian emergency. Mountains of rubble cover affected communities, making recovery efforts extremely difficult. At the same time, health concerns are increasing as thousands of people remain without safe shelter, sleeping outside or in overcrowded temporary accommodations with limited sanitation.
The earthquakes damaged several Nazarene church buildings in Venezuela:
- Millennial Church, which worships in a rented space in a shopping center in San Antonio de Los Altos, is unable to continue using that location due to near-total collapse.
- Aposento Alto Church of the Nazarene in Caracas sustained structural damage, including cracks in walls.
- San Diego Church of the Nazarene reported minor structural damage.
- The district office has crumbled tile and cracks in walls and structural columns.
Early reports indicate that while no church members have been displaced from their homes, some lost their livelihoods when their businesses and workplaces collapsed. In addition, several Nazarene pastors are awaiting news of missing family members.
Local churches in Venezuela are coordinating a compassionate response as they prepare to provide food, medical care, construction materials, and other practical assistance to affected communities. Already, a team of medical volunteers has been serving alongside first responders and international search and rescue teams sifting through the rubble in La Guaira. Church volunteers have also distributed hot meals, food packages, and other relief supplies to people displaced by the earthquake.
Pastor Edgar Reina of Millennial Church shared that the experience has been deeply traumatic, both as a father and as a pastor.
“Through prayer, God gave me the peace and direction I needed,” he said.
Though his church building is no longer safe to use, the congregation has united to serve others. On Sunday, June 28, they visited a site where more than 3,000 people are sheltering outside. The team visited with survivors, heard their heartbreaking stories, prayed with them, and distributed practical supplies. Next, they plan to set up a community kitchen to provide nutritious meals to any in need.
“We have been reminded that the church is not a building but its people,” Pastor Reina shared. “Even amid tragedy, we have witnessed God’s love through people serving selflessly. We are grateful for every prayer, donation, and act of support that enables us to continue operating our ministry. With hope and faith, we continue forward.”
How You Can Help
Pray
Pray today for the people of Venezuela. Pray for the thousands of families grieving the loss of loved ones and for those still awaiting news of missing family members. Remember children who are struggling with fear and anxiety in the wake of this disaster. Lift up first responders and everyone involved in search and rescue efforts. Finally, pray that local churches, even while impacted themselves, will be beacons of hope, offering both practical care and Christ’s love in the days ahead. To share a prayer with pastors and churches in the affected area, visit ncm.org/pray.
Give
Churches and individuals around the world can provide support through the Venezuela Earthquake Response Fund. Donations will be used for urgent needs like food, medical supplies, care for displaced families, and more.
To send donations by mail:
In the United States, make checks payable to “General Treasurer” and send them to:
Global Treasury Services
Church of the Nazarene
17001 Prairie Star Pkwy
Lenexa, KS 66220
Be sure to put 140149 in the memo area of your check.
In Canada, make checks payable to “Church of the Nazarene Canada” and send them to:
Church of the Nazarene Canada
3657 Ponytrail Drive, Mississauga, ON | L4X 1W5
Be sure to put 140149 in the memo area of your check.
For any other country, give through your local church or district, designating your gift to the Venezuela Earthquake Response Fund.