Day: October 5, 2025

Thousands Participate in Caracas Procession Ahead of Canonization of José Gregorio Hernández

Thousands of Venezuelans gathered in Caracas on the evening of October 5, 2025, to participate in the “Night Route for Peace,” a significant procession honoring Dr. José Gregorio Hernández, in anticipation of his historic canonization set for October 19, 2025, reports 24brussels.

The procession commenced at 6:00 p.m. local time (22:00 GMT) at the Divina Pastora Church, as participants retraced Hernández’s journey through key landmarks that symbolize his life and contributions. Known as the “Doctor of the Poor,” Hernández (1864-1919) is celebrated for his medical expertise and compassionate service to marginalized communities in Venezuela.

As demonstrators advanced, they held blue and white candles, stopping at significant sites including the José Gregorio Hernández House Museum and the Vargas Hospital, where he practiced medicine. The event featured prayers and hymns, showcasing the profound reverence held by Venezuelans for this pivotal figure.

Gerardino Baracchini, parish priest of La Candelaria and vice-postulator of Hernández’s cause for sainthood, noted that the procession serves as a spiritual preparation for the upcoming canonization ceremony. The event also pays tribute to Sister Carmen Rendiles, who will be canonized alongside Hernández.

Recognized by Pope Francis in February 2025, Hernández’s canonization affirms his exemplary life of virtue and the impact of his work on Venezuelan medicine. Born in Isnotú, Trujillo State, Hernández integrated modern scientific methods with a profound commitment to spiritual care. He became a beacon of hope during health crises, notably attending to victims of the 1918 influenza pandemic.

The path to sainthood was propelled by a widely acknowledged miracle attributed to Hernández’s intercession, involving the miraculous recovery of a young girl, Yaxury Solórzano Ortega, who survived a grave head injury against medical predictions. This miracle paved the way for his beatification in 2021 and subsequently his canonization.

The upcoming canonization has energized Venezuelans of varying backgrounds, as Archbishop of Caracas, Monsignor Raúl Biord Castillo, emphasized its significance in recognizing Hernández’s lifetime dedication to alleviating suffering. Venezuela’s ambassador to the Holy See, Franklin Zeltzer, recently conferred with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin regarding the logistics for the joint canonization ceremony, highlighting the importance of these events on an international stage.

Hernández’s canonization not only symbolizes spiritual fulfillment but also national pride for Venezuela. His recognition is poised to deepen the faithful’s devotion and celebrate the nation’s rich cultural and religious heritage globally.

The October 19 ceremony at Vatican City represents a landmark occasion for Venezuelan Catholics as they honor a man whose compassion and dedication to science and healing have transcended borders, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire millions.