When Power Falls, People Must Rise: A Call for Justice After Venezuela’s Turning Point

In moments of political collapse, the world often celebrates winners and losers.
But the Church is called to ask a different question:

What happens to the people?

Following the fall of Venezuela’s long-time leader Nicolás Maduro, Pope Leo XIV reminded the world of a truth that must never be lost in political transitions:

The welfare of the Venezuelan people must prevail above all else.

Standing in prayer at St. Peter’s Square, the Pope did not speak of revenge, triumph, or humiliation. He spoke of justice, peace, sovereignty, and human dignity — especially for the poor, the hungry, and the exhausted.

This is the Church’s role in times of upheaval:
not to celebrate power shifts,
but to protect human life when systems break.

Scripture reminds us:

“Seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow’s cause.” — Isaiah 1:17

Regime change does not automatically mean healing.
Toppling a leader does not instantly restore dignity.
True peace begins only when nations choose the hard work of justice — rebuilding institutions, protecting rights, and refusing cycles of retaliation.

The Pope emphasized that Venezuela’s future must be anchored in the rule of law, respect for human rights, and a path that leads to stability rather than vengeance. History has taught the world that revolutions without compassion simply replace one wound with another.

For believers everywhere, this moment is a reminder:
Faith does not cheer suffering, even when it follows the fall of a tyrant.
Faith insists that people are never collateral damage.

As the world watches Venezuela, the Church calls us to pray — not for dominance, but for healing.
Not for punishment, but for restoration.
Not for spectacle, but for peace.

Because when power falls,
God’s concern remains fixed on the people who must live through the aftermath.