CV News Feed // As 2023 drew to a close, Catholics in Nicaragua continued to face increased persecution with the arrest of six more priests.
On the nights of December 29 and 30, authorities in Nicaragua arrested six priests, all from the Archdiocese of Managua.
The most recent arrests come as Christians in Nicaragua are experiencing heightened persecution. In the days preceding the arrest of the six priests, five other priests and one bishop were arrested by police.
Bishop Isidoro Mora, the bishop of Siuna, was arrested after he publicly prayed for the release of fellow bishop Rolando Alvarez after he was sentenced to 26 years in prison last year after being convicted of conspiracy, obstruction of justice, and contempt for authorities. Lawyers and human rights advocates say that Bishop Alvarez did not receive a fair trial and demand his release.
The arrests and persecution come from the direction of Daniel Ortega, the dictator ruling Nicaragua. Under his rule, Christians have experienced heightened persecution, and many priests have been arrested.
A source shared with CNN that at a recent Mass, Mora led the congregation in praying for Alvarez, saying, “We are here praying for Matagalpa Church, praying for Bishop Rolando.”
The source said that Mora was arrested shortly thereafter and that his condition is unknown.
During Pope Francis’ New Year’s Day Angelus address, the Holy Father expressed his concern for the situation in Nicaragua, calling for the release of the two bishops.
“I am following with deep concern what is happening in Nicaragua, where bishops and priests have been deprived of their freedom. I express to them, their families, and the entire Church in the country my closeness in prayer,” the Holy Father said.
