If you’ve watched or read the news, you may have heard about the protests going on in Venezuela.
The protests arose as Venezuela’s economy and security have continued to falter. They currently have the highest inflation rate in South America and shortages of food and common goods (such as toilet paper, oil, milk, sugar, and corn flour for arepas) are common. The country is truly divided between those who are unhappy and seek a change with the current government and those who support it and its ideals. This political tension has resulted in these recent conflicts between students, led by opposition leaders and the government-backed police and military where nine protestors have died. Please be aware that the majority of these protest are in the capital city of Caracass which is 8 ½ hours from Maracaibo.
Undoubtedly, these events were orchestrated to overthrow the government of Venezuela. These protests started out peacefully, however, they have turned violent in some areas due to repression by the police and/or military who at times have responded with force. Currently, the government is in the process of taking back control after students blocked the streets and roadways in some areas of Venezuela. However, there is still a small group of protestors that continue marching with the hope of pressuring the President to resign. Please know that Bread of Hope’s support among the local churches and the Wayuu in Venezuela and in Colombia will continue independently of these circumstances.
The directors of Bread of Hope in conjunction with its local staff in Venezuela are currently analyzing the development of this situation in respect to the short term mission trips that are planned for this summer. Please be aware that the majority of these protest are in the capital city of Caracas which is 8 ½ hours from Maracaibo. Please know that your safety is a primary concern to us. We will not take a team into a knowingly dangerous situation.
During a time of prayer and reflection God revealed Himself to us in His Word in the following verses:
2 Corinthians 1:3-11 & Proverbs 14:26
We understand through these passages that when we surrender ourselves to serve Christ he takes care of all of those little details that we often worry or get anxious about. Our basic human needs such as health, safety, food, and financial security should be entrusted to Him, so that we can focus on Him. For in the end He is the only one who has control over our lives. No matter how hard we strive to provide for our wants/needs on our own we will always find that circumstances are out of our control. God alone is sovereign and in control of every detail and every situation.
The Bread of Hope staff will continue to pay close attention to this situation and will keep you posted on any new developments. Please join us as ambassadors for Christ in praying and interceding for our brothers and sisters in Venezuela. We must be a light, a reflection of Christ in a country that has been darkened by political division. We ask that you join us in prayer every day at 10:00 pm #BOHiPray4Vzla
Please pray specifically that:
- These protests will come to a peaceful resolution
- Venezuelan Christians will use this time of conflict and pain to share Christ’s love and hope with those around them.
- The Wayuu people find God’s love and provision in an extreme time of need.
Thank you for your support and your willingness to be the beautiful feet that bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to the Wayuu people. We are excited about the trip and the opportunity for you to meet these wonderful people. The community in which we serve is looking forward to welcoming you and they are eager to serve alongside you in this endeavor that God has put on each of our hearts.
Please remember to pray!
In Christ
Mark Kreikemeier
Bread of Hope – Founder
