Mexico is facing renewed turmoil following a major military operation that resulted in the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). In the wake of his killing, widespread violence has erupted across multiple states, prompting Mexico’s Catholic bishops to call the faithful to prayer, prudence, and unity.
In a public letter addressed to “the People of God who journey as pilgrims in Mexico,” the Mexican Episcopal Conference opened with Christ’s words from John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give it to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, nor let them be afraid.”
The statement, signed by Bishop Ramón Castro Castro, president of the conference, and Bishop Héctor M. Pérez Villarreal, secretary general, acknowledged “the moments of violence being experienced in various regions of our country, as a reaction to the operation against the leader of a criminal group,” according to Vatican News.
With what they described as a “pastoral and fraternal spirit,” the bishops urged Catholics “to strengthen personal and community security measures, to remain in your homes when necessary, and to avoid unnecessary travel, always following the instructions of the civil authorities,” according to Vatican News.
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They also called on parishes and families to intensify prayer for peace “within families, in parishes, at Sunday Eucharist, and in every community,” entrusting the nation to the intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe, whom they invoked as “Queen of Peace,” according to Vatican News. The bishops prayed that she would “cover us with her mantle, protect our families, and help us build paths of justice, peace, and hope.”
Violence followed swiftly after Mexican forces killed Oseguera Cervantes during an operation in the state of Jalisco. Reuters reported that his death marked “a major blow to one of the country’s most feared criminal groups,” but it also triggered violent retaliation, including roadblocks and burning vehicles across several states, according to Reuters.
Clashes between cartel members and security forces left significant casualties. Mexico’s secretary of security and citizen protection said that “Twenty-five members of the National Guard, one prison guard, and one from the State Attorney General’s Office died,” and that “one woman had died and ‘30 criminals also lost their lives,’” according to remarks reported by the Daily Mail.
The unrest has directly affected popular tourist destinations. The U.S. Embassy in Mexico urged American citizens in affected areas to “shelter in place” due to “ongoing security operations and related road blockages and criminal activity,” according to the Daily Mail. Vacation hotspots including Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum were included in the advisory.
Tourists reported being stranded as flights were suspended. One traveler wrote on social media, “Hey folks, understand there’s a lot going on. Just wondering if Air Canada will add any flights this week to help stranded customers in Puerto Vallarta,” according to the Daily Mail.
In the midst of the chaos, Mexico’s president sought to reassure citizens. “We woke up without any blockades on any of the highways, and practically all activity has been restored,” she said. “Today, there is already more tranquility, and there is government, and there are armed forces,” according to the Daily Mail.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the situation via Truth Social, declaring that Mexico needed to “step up their effort” on cartel and drug problems amid the unrest, according to the Daily Mail.
As violence and uncertainty continue to ripple across the country, the Church in Mexico is urging Catholics not to surrender to fear. The bishops emphasized that prayer must be not only a plea for divine protection but also “a commitment to be sowers of reconciliation and fraternity,” according to Vatican News.
In a time marked by fear, disruption, and grief, the Church’s response remains rooted in faith: to call upon Christ, the Prince of Peace, and to entrust the nation to the maternal care of Our Lady of Guadalupe — seeking justice, peace, and hope even amid turmoil.
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