Cardinal Pietro Parolin will no longer travel to Caracas, where this Friday he was scheduled to preside over the beatification ceremony for José Gregorio Hernández, the first Venezuelan to be called “Blessed.”
In a note, the Vatican cited unforeseen circumstances “mainly linked to the pandemic” behind the decision, and implied that the health crisis is not the only reason the Vatican Secretary of State is skipping the trip.
Cardinal Parolin says he hopes that the beatification will 'deepen the faith and Christian life' of Venezuelans, and help the nation 'face the humanitarian crisis and to promote a plural and peaceful coexistence.'
During his years as nuncio in Venezuela he witnessed how José Gregorio Hernández was admired by Venezuelans from all walks of life.
CARD. PIETRO PAROLIN
Vatican Secretary of State
'Everyone sees themselves in him, everyone accepts him, everyone loves him. So, we can say that he can be something that brings together and unites all Venezuelans at a time of difficulties and divisions.'
José Gregorio Hernández lived from 1864 to 1919. As a physician, he brought the latest scientific advances to Venezuela and lived in service of the poor.
The ceremony will be presided over by Cardinal Baltazar Porras, who is the apostolic administrator of Caracas.
It is a national event that will be broadcast live on all of the country's radio stations.
JMB
TR: JM
