Venezuela Barcelona Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

Venezuelan culture in Barcelona is a vibrant mix of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences, reflected in its diverse cuisine, music, and festivals. Traditional dishes like arepas and pabellón criollo are popular. The city is known for its vibrant vallenato and joropo music. Cultural events and historic landmarks in Barcelona highlight its rich heritage and the blend of traditions from different communities.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region's topography includes the coastal areas along the Caribbean Sea, the Paria Peninsula, and the plains of the Llanos. Notable bodies of water include the Unare River and the Orinoco River.

CLIMATE

The climate is tropical with average temperatures ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 90°F (32°C) throughout the year. The region experiences a wet season from May to November with high humidity, and a dry season from December to April.

LANGUAGES

The two most common languages spoken in the area are Spanish and Warao.

RELIGIONS

The three largest religious denominations in the area are Roman Catholicism, Protestantism, and Evangelicalism.

INDUSTRIES

Oil and Gas: Major employers include PDVSA, excelling in oil extraction and refining.

Petrochemicals: Key employers like Pequiven excel in petrochemical production.

Agriculture: Prominent employers in the agricultural sector focus on the production of crops such as corn, rice, and cattle ranching.

LOCAL EVENTS

The three largest local celebrations include the Carnival, the Feria de la Chinita, and the Parranda de San Pedro.

TOURISM

Popular tourist attractions include the Mochima National Park, the El Morro Island, and the La Cruz de Boyaca.

RECREATION

Favored recreational activities include water sports at the Mochima National Park and exploring nature trails in the Parque Kagoshima.

MISSION HISTORY

An official congregation was organized in November 1966 by a Church Apostle, Elder Marion G. Romney. Prior to that time, United States expatriates working in Venezuela held meetings at home. Missionaries were sent from the Costa Rica Mission to Venezuela, and in February 1967, the first convert was baptized.

President Spencer W. Kimball, then Church President, visited Venezuela in January 1975. At that time there were 4,000 members meeting in 23 congregations. In 1979, there were nearly 5,000 members. Membership has tripled within the past 10 years.

MISSION GROUPS

These groups are a great way to connect with other families who have missionaries in the same area, reconnect with other missionaries you served with in the past or simply learn more about the mission. Robust membership activity can make these groups truly amazing resources!

La Mision Venezuela Barcelona Group

Venezuela Barcelona Mission Group

Mision Venezuela Barcelona 2003-06 Group

Ex-Misioneros de Barcelona Maturin Group