Following the killing of a Mexican drug lord in a military operation and subsequent violence erupting in various parts of the country, Mexico’s Bishops are calling for restraint, prayers, and prudence, and are warning against unnecessary travel at this time.
By Deborah Castellano Lubov
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give it to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, nor let them be afraid.” (Jn 14:27)
With this quote, the Bishops of Mexico begin the letter they released titled “the People of God who journey as pilgrims in Mexico” to address rampant violence in the country.
In the text signed by Bishop Ramón Castro Castro, President of the Mexican Episcopal Conference, and Bishop Héctor M. Pérez Villarreal, Secretary General of the Mexican Episcopal Conference, they call for intensified prayers for peace and also warn against unnecessary travel during this dramatic time.
Invitation for prudence and prayer
“In the midst of the moments of violence being experienced in various regions of our country, as a reaction to the operation against the leader of a criminal group,” they state, “we wish to draw close to each one of you, to your families and communities, sharing your concern and inviting you to prudence and prayer.”
“With a pastoral and fraternal spirit,” they continue, “we urge you to strengthen personal and community security measures, to remain in your homes when necessary, and to avoid unnecessary travel, always following the instructions of the civil authorities.”
The Mexican Bishops’ Conference goes on to invite the faithful to intensify prayers for “the peace that our nation so greatly needs; within families, in parishes, at Sunday Eucharist, and in every community.”
Entrusting Mexico to Our Lady of Guadalupe, Queen of Peace
With this sentiment, the prelates of the country express their hope that their pray may be “a trusting supplication to Jesus Christ, Lord of history and Prince of Peace; but also a commitment to be sowers of reconciliation and fraternity.”
Finally, the Bishops go on to entrust all of Mexico to the maternal intercession of the Virgin of Guadalupe, Queen of Peace, “that she may cover us with her mantle, protect our families, and help us build paths of justice, peace, and hope,” pray for the Lord’s strength, and pray He may grant that they “may live through these moments united, with prudence, solidarity, and faith.”
Violence erupts after killing of ‘El Mencho’
Reuters reported that Mexican forces killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, the head of the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel, in a military operation that marked a major blow to one of the country’s most feared criminal groups.
His death, which has been described as an important victory for Mexican authorities and U.S.–Mexico security cooperation, has triggered widespread violent retaliation, including roadblocks and burning vehicles across multiple Mexican states.
Many fear the killing will lead to further violence and instability.
