Father Marcelo Pérez, a devoted pastor in the Mexican Diocese of San Cristóbal de las Casas, was tragically shot and killed by unknown assailants on Saturday, October 19, shortly after celebrating Mass.
The incident occurred as Father Pérez was leaving the church in Cuxtitali, where he had just presided over the Eucharist. While heading to his car, en route to his next pastoral duty in the Guadalupe neighborhood, two men on a motorcycle reportedly opened fire, fatally wounding the priest.
In a heartfelt statement issued on October 20, the Mexican Bishops' Conference (La Conferencia Episcopal Mexicana, or CEM) strongly condemned the murder, describing it as a grievous loss to the church and community.
The statement read, “This heinous act has torn away a dedicated pastor from his flock and silenced a prophetic voice that tirelessly championed peace, truth, and justice in Chiapas.”
CEM highlighted Father Pérez’s unwavering dedication to serving the marginalized and vulnerable, noting that his ministry was deeply rooted in his love for the people and his commitment to their well-being.
"Father Marcelo Pérez embodied the essence of priestly service," the statement continued. "His pastoral work, marked by profound compassion and solidarity with the poor, leaves an indelible legacy of love and service."
The bishops also expressed their "solidarity and spiritual closeness" to the local Catholic community and to Bishop Rodrigo Aguilar Martínez of San Cristóbal de las Casas.
They called on authorities to launch "a thorough and transparent investigation" to ensure that justice is served and to implement stronger measures to protect priests and pastoral workers.
The CEM further urged for intensified efforts to combat the violence and impunity that plague Chiapas and the nation.
Father Pérez’s funeral Mass was celebrated on October 21 by Cardinal Felipe Arizmendi Esquivel, the retired Archbishop of Chiapas, drawing mourners from across the diocese who gathered to pay their respects to a beloved leader known for his steadfast commitment to his community.
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