Amid rising anxiety linked to a deepening security crisis, the Catholic Church in Guatemala has called for prayer, restraint and protection of life as violence disrupts daily life in the capital and surrounding municipalities. In a public message issued in recent days, Gonzalo de Villa y Vásquez expressed concern over the climate of unrest affecting communities under his pastoral care. He offered condolences to families who have lost loved ones and appealed for a renewed commitment to peace rooted in faith and shared responsibility. Stressing the value of human life above all else, the archbishop encouraged the faithful to turn to prayer as a source of strength and unity. His message reflected the Church’s traditional role during moments of crisis, focusing on moral guidance rather than political judgment, and inviting Catholics across the country and beyond to accompany Guatemala spiritually during a time marked by fear and uncertainty.
As a precautionary measure aimed at safeguarding the population, the archbishop authorized the suspension of evening Masses across the department of Guatemala for one Sunday. The decision was framed as a temporary step to avoid exposing worshippers to further risk while tensions remain high. Church leaders emphasized that the measure does not signal retreat, but rather pastoral prudence in the face of immediate danger. Clergy were encouraged to maintain contact with parishioners through prayer and communication while monitoring developments closely. The appeal for calm coincided with mounting concern among residents following violent incidents linked to criminal networks. In response to the escalation, Bernardo Arévalo announced the declaration of a nationwide state of siege for thirty days, citing the need to restore order and protect citizens from organized violence targeting security forces and public institutions.
The Church’s appeal highlighted the emotional toll of prolonged insecurity on families and communities, noting that fear and grief risk becoming normalized without collective efforts toward peace. By inviting prayer from the wider Catholic community, church leaders underscored the universal dimension of solidarity in moments of national distress. The message avoided confrontation, instead emphasizing hope, responsibility and the moral duty to reject violence in all its forms. While state authorities pursue security measures, the Church reaffirmed its commitment to accompanying the population through spiritual support and pastoral presence. This approach reflects a long-standing ecclesial tradition in Latin America, where bishops often act as voices of conscience during periods of instability. As Guatemala navigates this tense period, the Church continues to frame its response around dignity, prayer and the protection of life, seeking to preserve social cohesion amid uncertainty.
