In a statement sent to Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), Father Kazah asked for prayers for Father Ukeh’s “urgent and safe release” and condemned the “incessant kidnappings for ransom of innocent and defenseless citizens.”

Martín Alberto Peña, 47, was born in Mitú and is ACN’s only donor in the entire region. He told the foundation that he is sustained by the power of prayer, because “with God, anything is possible,”

The work done with the prisoners includes talks and Masses, as well as workshops and courses on Christian values and faith. The mission has already borne fruit, according to Aleida: “We have brought Jesus to these people. We have witnessed deep conversions; we have seen Christ set these souls free.”

“As members of the same mystical body of Christ, ACN wants to support – through prayer and material assistance,” said Lynch. “We are in constant prayer for all the people there and remain available to help the local Church with any needs that arise, whether emergency or structural.”

Mexico is considered the most dangerous country for priests in Latin America. Over the past 18 years, 40 priests have been killed, including two Jesuits who were shot in a church in Chihuahua in June of 2022.

Thelandslide has flattened the village of Kaokalam, burying 178 people and destroying more than 255 houses,” the message said, adding that representatives of the diocese went to the affected area as soon as they could and were able to deliver basic emergency aid.