Pope mourns death of Mozambican Bishop Citora Afonso

Vatican News

Pope Leo XIV “learned with sorrow of the serious act of violence” that resulted in the death of Bishop Osório Citora Afonso, Bishop of Quelimane and Apostolic Administrator of Beira, in Mozambique. The news was communicated through the Holy See Press Office’s Telegram channel.

The Pope, the statement continues, “joins in prayer with the people of the dioceses and of Mozambique in this time of bewilderment, asking the Lord to grant them consolation, to keep every man and woman in His love, and to stay the hand of the violent.”

Investigation underway

Bishop Citora Afonso was found dead on the morning of 6 June at his episcopal residence in Quelimane, having been fatally shot in the chest.

According to the Fides News Agency, the National Criminal Investigation Service has opened an investigation. At present, no confirmed details have been released regarding the circumstances of the killing or the identity of those responsible.

“Don Osório” and the Dicastery for Evangelization

Known affectionately to many as “Don Osório,” the bishop served as an official of the Dicastery for Evangelization, Section for First Evangelization and the New Particular Churches, from 2017 to 2023, maintaining close ties with the Dicastery thereafter.

He was also a close collaborator of the Fides News Agency, with which he continued to share information until only a few weeks ago about the life of the local Church and the grave situation of violence and conflict affecting the country.

Condolences from Civil Authorities

Deep condolences were also expressed by the President of Mozambique, Daniel Francisco Chapo. In his message, he stated that “the death of Bishop Osório represents an irreparable loss for Mozambican society and for the Christian community,” highlighting the bishop’s witness of humility, pastoral dedication, and commitment to promoting the values of peace and reconciliation.