With the aim of strengthening ecclesial communion and coordinating pastoral efforts, the Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní in Venezuela held a meeting of its Pastoral Council—a forum for dialogue, evaluation, and planning—which reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to walking alongside Amazonian communities.
The meeting took place on July 13 and was presided over by Bishop Gonzalo Ontiveros , bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní. Participants included representatives from various pastoral ministries, religious orders and congregations, lay movements and associations, Caritas, the Pan-Amazonian Ecclesial Network (REPAM) of the Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní, and indigenous leader Darcy Sánchez, captain of the Manak-krü community, whose presence underscored the importance of indigenous peoples’ active role in the life of the Church.
A Space to Strengthen the Shared Mission
The meeting allowed the various social ministry groups to share the charism and service they provide to the communities, fostering a dialogue that promotes coordination and complementarity in evangelization efforts throughout the region.
During the meeting, an evaluation was also conducted of the pastoral processes and activities carried out in recent months, identifying the progress made and the challenges that continue to shape the Church’s mission in this Amazonian region.
Likewise, participants presented the initiatives planned for the coming months, strengthening joint planning and coordination among the different pastoral areas, with the goal of responding more effectively to the needs of the communities.
Walking Together in Synodality
The participation of representatives from consecrated life, organized lay groups, social ministry, and indigenous peoples highlighted the Apostolic Vicariate of Caroní’s commitment to a synodal Church, where mutual listening, communal discernment, and shared responsibility guide evangelization efforts.
The presence of Indigenous leader Darcy Sánchez also reflected the importance of continuing to strengthen intercultural dialogue and the active participation of Indigenous peoples in building a Church with an Amazonian face.
A Church Close to the Communities
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to continue walking together in the service of the Gospel, strengthening communion among the different ecclesial expressions, and promoting a presence that is ever closer to the communities.