Nampula – The Catholic community continues to keep alive the memory of Bishop Osório Citora Afonso, Bishop of Quelimane and Apostolic Administrator of Beira, who was brutally killed at his episcopal residence on June 6.
On the fortieth day after his death, Friday, July 24, the Archdiocese of Nampula celebrated a Requiem Mass in the cathedral, attended by family members, faithful, priests, and women religious. The celebration was presided over by Father Simone Adriano, parish priest of São Francisco Xavier Parish.
In his homily, he recalled Bishop Osório’s witness of humility, pastoral dedication, and closeness to the poor, urging Christians to transform their grief into a renewed commitment to peace, truth, and justice. He also stressed that Christian forgiveness does not exclude the need to establish responsibility and hold those responsible for the crime accountable.
“The final word,” he said, “belongs not to violence or death, but to God, the Lord of life.”
The celebration concluded with prayers for the eternal repose of Bishop Osório, for the consolation of his family, and for all victims of violence. Meanwhile, the Church continues to await official clarification regarding the circumstances of the killing, as the investigation continues.
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