The terrorists want to eradicate this society and all who do not profess the same brand of Islam as they do, including Muslims, which means that the terrorism is now aimed at society as a whole.

“Along with the lack of religious freedom, there is also persecution for religious reasons. I cannot fail to mention, as certain statistics have shown, that one out of every seven Christians experiences persecution.”

Due to the inability of the Mozambican Armed Forces to patrol the entire region threatened by the insurgents, many local populations have formed their own defense groups, often composed of veterans of Mozambique’s decades-long civil war.

"Although physically weak, his mind was clear, and his charisma reflected holiness."

The priest’s funeral took place Jan.5, in the Cathedral of Saint Anne in Dédougou, capital of Boucle du Mouhoun. “Through the infinite mercy of God, may his servant Father Jacques Yaro Zerbo rest in peace,” the bishop wrote.

According to information collected by Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), Nigeria was the country with the highest number of victims, with four priests killed. Others who were murdered while carrying out their pastoral duties include three priests brutally killed in Mexico.