Nicolás Maduro was received on two occasions, in 2013 and 2016, at the Holy See by the Supreme Pontiff. Photograph: Courtesy.
Guacamaya, April 22, 2025. President Nicolás Maduro has decreed three days of national mourning in Venezuela following the passing of Pope Francis, attributing to him an important legacy in the country and worldwide. The order, published in Extraordinary Official Gazette No. 6,900, states that mourning will begin on April 21 at 6:00 PM and end on April 24 at the same time.
During the mourning period, the National Flag will be flown at half-mast on all public buildings, both civil and military. Additionally, festivities and public celebrations will be suspended as a sign of respect for the passing of the Supreme Pontiff. The Ministry of Interior, Justice, and Peace will be responsible for ensuring compliance with these provisions.
Maduro described Pope Francis as a “sincere friend” of the Venezuelan people. The Supreme Pontiff had a significant impact on Venezuela, particularly in the religious sphere. Under his pontificate, Venezuela saw the canonization of its first two saints, José Gregorio Hernández and Carmen Rendiles, a historic milestone for Catholic faith in the country.
José Gregorio Hernández, known as the “Doctor of the Poor,” was beatified in 2021 and later canonized in 2025 through Pope Francis’ intervention. Meanwhile, Carmen Rendiles, founder of the Servants of Jesus Congregation, was beatified in 2018, and her canonization was announced in 2025, solidifying her legacy of service and dedication to the community.
The passing of Pope Francis has prompted a wave of mourning across Latin America. Argentina and Brazil have decreed a week of national mourning, while Chile, the Dominican Republic, Panama, Costa Rica, Cuba, and Peru have declared three days of mourning. In Paraguay, the government has decreed five days of mourning, emphasizing the Pope’s impact in the region.
Other countries have expressed their condolences and tributes through official statements and messages. Several nations have highlighted the Pope’s role in defending the most vulnerable, promoting peace, and advocating for social justice. His legacy as a spiritual leader and defender of the humble will remain present in Venezuela, Latin America, and the world.
