The Archbishop of Caracas, Cardinal Jorge Urosa Savino, recently spoke to Venezuelans explaining that Holy Week is a chance for Christians to draw close to the Lord and strengthen their faith amidst attacks from secular society.

There are many threats to our faith and to the Catholic religion,” the cardinal said in a letter for Holy Week.”  The prelate also touched on secularism which, he said, aims to remove God from the public square and society.

“Our faith is also threatened by the scandals of some Church leaders, made known by the international press,” he said.  However, the cardinal continued, “we should remain firm in the faith, and live according to our status as children of God, disciples of Jesus Christ, and members of the Holy Catholic Church.”

Catholics should act contrary to the many who applauded Jesus as he processed into Jerusalem but later turned their backs on Him.  “We are called to always be faithful to Christ who gave His life for our salvation,” the cardinal said. 

“May the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus, the Divine Savior, encourage us, fill us with joy and strengthen us in our fight against sin.  May it lead us to become authentic Christians, with holy and virtuous conduct, worthy of those who believe in the Risen Lord,” he concluded.