…Highlights the alarming state of religious freedom in the country.
Bishop Emeritus Juan Abelardo Mata Guevara, 80, who was arrested by Nicaraguan police on June 29-30, 2026, for advocating the rights of persecuted clergy while receiving medical treatment, has since been released.
The retired Bishop of Estelí was detained shortly after celebrating Mass at Calvary’s Cross Church, during which he urged the faithful to pray for the persecuted Church in the country.
The Catholic Church in Nicaragua continues to endure systematic persecution, with bishops imprisoned or exiled, priests arrested, Churches monitored, and faithful intimidated, all for proclaiming the Gospel and defending human dignity.
Credit: carlosagaton.blogspot.com.
This most recent incident underscores the ongoing harassment and repression against Catholic clergy under the Ortega regime.
Bishop Guevara has previously faced detentions and interrogations. Although he was eventually released, the message is evident: voices of faith and solidarity are not welcome.
In light of this situation, the faithful are praying for the immediate and complete freedom of all imprisoned clergy and laity, as well as for strength and protection for Bishop Guevara and all Nicaraguan bishops, priests, and religious figures.
Although the retired prelate has been released, prayers through Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Joseph are being offered for the conversion of hearts, an end to religious persecution, and peace and justice in Nicaragua.
Nicaragua is the smallest country in Central America, bordered by Honduras to the north and Costa Rica to the South, with the Caribbean Sea to the East and the Pacific Ocean to the West.
Catholicism constitutes 41% to 45% of the population, but the growth of Evangelical Protestantism and increasing secularization present significant shifts in our societal landscape.
