Pope expresses ‘concern’ for Nicaragua as priests arrested

By Devin Watkins

“I follow with deep concern what is happening in Nicaragua, where Bishops and priests have been deprived of their freedom.”

Pope Francis shared his concern for the Latin American nation on Monday as he prayed the Angelus on the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God.

Speaking after the Marian prayer, the Pope expressed his “closeness in prayer to them, their families, and the entire Church in the country.”

He also invited all the people of God to join in “insistent prayer” for Nicaragua.

“I hope that we always seek the path of dialogue to overcome difficulties,” added the Pope.

“Let us pray for Nicaragua today,” he concluded.

Situation in the country

Authorities in Nicaragua have arrested at least 14 priests, 1 Bishop, and 2 seminarians over the past week.

Bishop Isidoro del Carmen Mora Ortega, of the Diocese of Siuna, was arrested on 20 December after he prayed publicly for Bishop Rolando José Álvarez Lagos, the Bishop of Matagalpa.

Bishop Álvarez was sentenced to 26 years in prison earlier this year on charges of conspiracy, spreading false news, obstructing justice, and insulting authorities.

Prayer of Cardinal Archbishop of Managua

On Saturday, Cardinal Leopoldo José Brenes Solórzano, the Archbishop of Managua, celebrated Mass in his Cathedral and expressed his closeness “to the families and communities that, in this moment, feel the lack of their priests.”

Cardinal Brenes invited the faithful to remain united in prayer.

“Church unity,” he said, “is our strength... With Mary, our mother, at the foot of the Cross, may the Lord console us and show us His mercy.”