Remembering Fr. Marcelo Pérez Pérez: A Champion for Peace in Mexico
By Kielce Gussie
As the Synodal Assembly offers prayers for the late Fr. Marcelo Pérez Pérez, an advocate for the rights of Mexico’s indigenous communities, Sr. María de los Dolores Palencia Gómez emphasizes that his killing must “not go unpunished.”
Fr. Marcelo, the parish priest of the Cuxtitali parish in San Cristóbal de Las Casas, Mexico, was tragically killed after celebrating Mass on October 20.
Sister María, a Mexican nun from the Congregation of Sisters of Saint Joseph and Delegate President of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod, spoke to Vatican News’ Renato Martinez about the assassination.
A Warrior of Peace
Describing Fr. Marcelo as a warrior of peace, Sr. María highlighted his efforts to bring dialogue and justice to the most vulnerable populations. As a member of an indigenous tribe in Mexico, he dedicated his life to advocating for the rights of the Tzotzil community and speaking out against violence in the country.
Sr. María emphasized that the priest’s murder serves as a stark reminder of the division some individuals are trying to create within communities.
Chiapas: A Region in Turmoil
Chiapas, the state where Fr. Marcelo hailed from, has been marked by increasing violence due to territorial disputes among drug cartels. The region is also a key transit point for drugs, arms, and migrants heading towards the United States.
Sr. María pointed out that the violence in Chiapas has led to internal migration, exacerbating tensions and fostering divisions among communities that have coexisted for generations.
A Call for Justice
The tragic death of Fr. Marcelo Pérez Pérez is a stark reminder of the ongoing violence in Mexico. Sister María emphasized the importance of ensuring that his murder does not go unpunished and that justice is served.
With over 500 assassinations reported in Chiapas from January to August this year, it is crucial to raise awareness about the plight of indigenous communities and the need for concerted efforts to address the root causes of violence.
“We need to raise our voices and make the world understand that there are grave injustices happening against humanity and nature,” Sr. María stressed.
