Alerts Sign-up
Mexican parishioners have placed eight candles on church altars to honor the memory of eight young individuals who were shot and killed outside a parish church. Catholic leaders have called for action to address insecurity and urged reflection on the violence that continues to claim young lives.
On March 23, masses were held across Mexico as Catholics prayed for the victims of the attack in Salamanca, Guanajuato state, which also left five people injured. Bishop Enrique Díaz Díaz described the incident, saying, “They were talking and socializing after the celebration of holy Mass, (then) at approximately 7:30 pm, armed men arrived … and opened fire.”
Investigators discovered 50 shell casings from high-powered weapons at the scene. The Mexican bishops’ conference issued a statement highlighting that this act should prompt reflection on national violence: “This act makes us reflect on the violence plaguing our nation, which has become a cancer for our society. Criminals flaunt their impunity, manifest contempt for life, and makes insecurity prevail in our community spaces.” They continued by emphasizing unity in facing these challenges: “Let us form a common front, living the solidarity that has so often characterized us in the face of the tragedies we confront.”
The attack occurred amidst ongoing violence throughout Mexico. Reports frequently highlight incidents such as an apparent extermination site where searchers found bone fragments and ovens used to cremate victims. Under U.S. pressure, President Claudia Sheinbaum's administration has increased enforcement against drug cartels since she took office on October 1st but continues to downplay such atrocities.
Guanajuato has experienced significant violence due to battles between drug cartels over illegal activities like gasoline theft from Pemex pipelines. A previous massacre in December 2023 at a Christmas party resulted in numerous casualties.
The recent attack underscores concerns about young Mexicans losing their lives or being drawn into crime. Adolescents are notably affected by this wave of violence. The National Dialogue for Peace stated: “Adolescents and young people are the most affected by this wave of violence in Mexico... each death calls us to protect their lives.”
Father Andrés Larios commented on how some youths see organized crime as an opportunity due to limited social mobility: "I want to be a narco because narcos have the best trucks... practically don’t work." He added that many believe drug trafficking solves their problems despite its dangers.
Father Larios expressed disappointment with church efforts against cartel influence among youth: "It’s about raising awareness... trying to educate ourselves," he said while acknowledging time constraints focusing primarily on sacramental training.
David Agren reports from Buenos Aires for OSV News.
