Venezuela Caracas Mission

CULTURAL SUMMARY

The culture of the Caracas region is deeply influenced by its indigenous heritage and Spanish colonial history, enriched by diverse immigration. The local cuisine features traditional dishes like arepas and pabellón criollo, reflecting a blend of indigenous and Spanish flavors. The region's vibrant arts scene includes traditional music and dance forms such as the joropo, celebrated during festivals like the Carnival of Caracas. Festivals and events throughout the year celebrate the diverse cultural and historical influences that shape this dynamic part of Venezuela.

TOPOGRAPHY

The region includes the Coastal Mountain Range, including notable peaks such as El Ávila, and is bordered by the Caribbean Sea.

CLIMATE

The climate is tropical with average temperatures ranging from 68°F (20°C) in winter to 82°F (28°C) in summer, with high humidity and a rainy season from May to November.

LANGUAGES

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

RELIGIONS

The three largest religious denominations in the area are Roman Catholicism, Evangelical Protestantism, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

INDUSTRIES

Oil and Gas: Major employers like PDVSA excel in the exploration and production of oil and gas, making this industry significant in the region.

Finance: Companies such as Banesco are key players in the financial industry, specializing in banking and financial services.

LOCAL EVENTS

The largest local celebrations include the Carnival of Caracas, the El Hatillo Music Festival, and the Caracas International Theatre Festival, which highlight the region's rich cultural traditions and historical significance.

TOURISM

The most common tourist attractions are the Cerro El Ávila, the Caracas Botanical Garden, and the National Pantheon of Venezuela.

RECREATION

Favored recreational activities include visiting the Parque del Este and exploring the Waraira Repano National Park, both offering unique outdoor experiences.

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!

Caracas Venezuela Mission Pres. Webb Group

Caracas West Pres. Charles Hunter Group

Companeros de Mision Caracas Group

President Dean Larsen Caracas Alumni Group

Mision Venezuela Caracas 2008- Group

Ex-Misioneros Mision Caracas Este Group

Mision Venezuela Caracas Facebook Group

Misioneros Retornados Mision Caracas Group

Venezuela Caracas Mission Group

Mision Caracas Venezuela 1985-87 Group