The Mexican Episcopal Conference has expressed heartfelt condolences to the people of Benue State, Nigeria, following the horrific massacre in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area, on June 13, which claimed the lives of over 300 individuals.
In a joint statement signed by Bishop Ramón Castro Castro, President of the Conference, and Bishop Héctor M. Pérez Villarreal, Secretary General, the Church leadership condemned the killings as a shocking act of “inhuman violence” that cries out to heaven for justice.
The statement reads in part:
“The Mexican Episcopal Conference expresses its profound grief and dismay over the massacre that took place on Friday, June 13, in Benue State, Nigeria, where more than 200 of our Christian brothers and sisters were brutally slain in their sleep. The attacks, involving arson, bladed weapons, and executions, represent a level of cruelty that deeply wounds our shared humanity.
“Such acts of inhuman violence cry out to heaven. As a Church, we offer fervent prayers for the eternal rest of those who lost their lives, the healing of the wounded, and the consolation of families devastated by this tragedy.
“We stand in solidarity with our fellow bishops in Nigeria and with all the faithful across Africa during this Jubilee Year of Hope. We pray for the gift of peace and renew our call for an end to war, persecution, and every form of religious or ethnic violence that threatens the sanctity and dignity of human life.”
The Conference also called on the Catholic faithful in Mexico to offer Masses and holy hours in remembrance of the victims and as intercession for the conversion of those driven by hatred.
“May this moment of sorrow also become a time of grace. Let us fix our eyes on the merciful face of Christ, the Prince of Peace, and allow His love to move us toward reconciliation, forgiveness, and lasting justice among nations.”
