The Catholic community in Mexico is mourning the death of Father Bertoldo Pantaleón Estrada, whose body was discovered on October 6 after he was reported missing two days earlier in the state of Guerrero.
The Mexican Episcopal Conference (CEM) and the Diocese of Chilpancingo-Chilapa confirmed that Father Pantaleón’s remains were found around 2 p.m. local time.
He had served as parish priest in Mezcala, a community in southeastern Guerrero.
Officials have not yet released details regarding the cause of death. The Guerrero State Attorney General’s Office said it has opened an investigation to “clarify what happened.”
Bishop José de Jesús González Hernández of Chilpancingo-Chilapa expressed deep sorrow and called on authorities to identify those responsible.
“As bishop, and on behalf of the entire diocesan community, I forgive those directly involved, leaving justice to God,” he said.
He also urged for “the conversion of our hearts” and prayed that the nation would continue “walking the path of peace and life.”
In a statement, the Mexican bishops thanked God for Father Bertoldo’s ministry and lamented the recurring violence against clergy.
This tragedy follows the murder of Father Marcelo Pérez nearly a year ago in Chiapas, after he celebrated Mass.
According to the Catholic Multimedia Center (CCM), which documents violence against church workers, one cardinal and about 60 priests have been murdered since 1990.
Since 2018 alone, there have been 12 murders, 14 physical attacks, and nearly 900 cases of extortion or death threats against clergy. Churches across the country suffer an average of 26 attacks per week.
The CEM has demanded a “prompt, thorough, and transparent investigation” to bring those responsible to justice.
“No form of violence can have a place in a society that honors life and seeks peace,” the bishops wrote.
They concluded by commending Father Bertoldo to Christ the Good Shepherd, praying he may share in “the eternal joy promised to faithful servants.”
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