The episcopal conference of Venezuela issued a brief message after the United States captured the nation's president, urging the people to persevere in prayer, and expressing solidarity with the families of those who were killed.
An official report of the number of victims has not been released, but Cuba has said that 32 of its nationals were killed, and reports from Venezuela listed a preliminary number of casualties at 80.
Venezuela has 42 dioceses/archdioceses with 74 bishops, including those who are retired.
Vatican News reported the bishops' message.
"In light of the events our country is experiencing today, let us ask God to grant all Venezuelans serenity, wisdom, and strength. We stand in solidarity with those who were injured and the families of those who died. Let us persevere in prayer for the unity of our people," the message reads.
The bishops also ask that the decisions made be for the good of the Venezuelan people:
"We call on the People of God to live more intensely in hope and fervent prayer for peace in our hearts and in society, rejecting any kind of violence. May our hands be open to encounter and mutual aid, and may the decisions that are made always be for the good of our people."
The UN Security Council is holding an emergency meeting following the US strike, described as a discussion on threats to international peace and security.
The exiled politician thought to have actually won the 2024 elections, Edmundo González, posted a 3-minute video Sunday in which he referred to himself as the president-elect of Venezuela and spoke of "loyalty to democracy."
Maduro's vice president, Delcy Rodríguez, theoretically the acting president, on Sunday called for coexistence with the United States.
Pope Leo on Sunday urged the faithful to pray to Our Lady of Coromoto, and the two new Venezuela saints, for their intercession. He noted the right of the nation to sovereignty.
