Letter
Letter Expressing Solidarity with the Church in Guatemala and Concern About Threats Against Bishop Ramazzini, April 9, 2008
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Most Reverend Álvaro Leonel Ramazzini Imeri
Bishop of San Marcos
Obispado
9a Avenida 10-36 Zona 4
San Marcos
Guatemala
Dear Bishop Ramazzini,
I write to express the solidarity of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops with you and with those other pastoral workers in Guatemala who have been subjected in recent weeks to threats and other acts of intimidation by unknown parties.
For some time, we have been aware of the direct threats against your person and of the necessary security measures you are obliged to adopt for protection. Your defense of poor farmers in your diocese of San Marcos, who have protested certain actions of international mining companies, are well-known by many. We admire your willingness to stand with those whose voices are so often ignored. The reported hostile act against Sor Jesús Solares is deeply troubling. I join others in condemning these threats and call upon government and law enforcement officials to redouble their efforts to ensure your security and that of all those threatened.
During this Easter season, when we celebrate the victory of hope in Jesus over the evil of sin, I assure you that you and many others in Guatemala who experience suffering and persecution will be in our prayers. May Mary, Queen of the Apostles, be with you and protect you at this time. Please let our Conference staff know if there are other ways in which we might be of assistance.
Fraternally yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Thomas G. Wenski
Bishop of Orlando
Chairman Committee on International Justice and Peace