Rio de Janeiro.- The Christ the Redeemer of Rio de Janeiro, a global symbol of fraternity and the most representative image of Brazil, was illuminated this Thursday with a special projection in memory of the victims of the earthquakes that strongly shook Venezuela on June 24.
On the enormous white statue that rises above Corcovado hill, the image of a waving Venezuelan flag was projected, covering Christ the Redeemer in yellow, blue, and red.
Seconds later, an ‘SOS Venezuela’ anticipated the central message of the tribute: ‘Solidarity without borders. Donate now’.
The symbolic act is part of the campaign organized by the Catholic Church in Brazil to raise funds for the affected families.
With the donations, the organizers will purchase food, drinking water, medicine, and other essential items for those affected.
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Likewise, part of the funds will be used for initiatives to support communities through programs for the reconstruction of life, dignity, and hope, according to the statement sent by the National Conference of Bishops of Brazil and the Caritas Foundation.
Nestled in the heart of the Tijuca Natural Park, the largest urban tropical forest in the world, Christ the Redeemer, standing 38 meters tall, is considered a place of pilgrimage for believers and an attraction for the thousands of tourists who climb to its summit every year.
This Thursday’s projection sought to turn the iconic monument into a beacon of solidarity to boost support for Venezuelans in Brazil and the entire world.
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According to the latest official report, the double earthquake in Venezuela, with magnitudes of 7.2 and 7.5, has left a toll of at least 2,295 dead and 11,267 injured.
Located about 30 kilometers from Caracas, La Guaira has been the state most affected by the earthquakes along with the capital.
So far, the Venezuelan government does not have a figure for the missing, although the United Nations estimates that the number could reach about 50,000.
