Nicaragua’s oppression of the Catholic Church intensifies, alarming exiles and human rights groups. While Lent and Holy Week processions are in full swing across Latin America, Nicaraguans face a second year of bans, stirring deep concern over religious freedom. This clampdown is labelled as one of the worst global persecutions of faith. Priests in exile report their fears of repercussions, as over 200 religious figures fled the country, leaving congregations, especially in rural areas, isolated and struggling to maintain their traditional practices.
The U.S. government has condemned the actions of President Daniel Ortega’s regime, highlighting the alarming attempts to dismantle the Catholic Church. During his February visit, Secretary of State Marco Rubio denounced Nicaragua’s efforts “to eliminate the Catholic Church” and punish those who oppose government power. The annual report from the Commission on International Religious Freedom described the situation as “abysmal,” noting the high Christian population divided between Catholics and evangelicals, and detailing how the government has harassed clergy and cancelled legal statuses of faith-based organisations, leading to widespread property seizures and forced exiles.
To suppress religious observance, thousands of police were dispatched last year to thwart Easter processions. Only clergy aligned with the government are permitted public worship, as local authorities set up alternative festivities to simulate religious freedom. Félix Maradiaga, a Nicaraguan opposition leader, likens this strategy to attempts by the Chinese government to exert control over faith. He expressed fears of further coercion until the regime garners a compliant bishops’ conference.
Nicaragua’s government has a tumultuous history with faith leaders, particularly after the Church offered aid during the violent civic protests of 2018. Blaming clergy for dissent, the regime has stifled the church’s voice against state violence. Many exiled priests recall the church stepping in to support those persecuted, signifying their commitment to their ministry.
Martha Patricia Molina, a Nicaraguan lawyer in exile, reported nearly 1,000 instances of church persecution since 2018, highlighting arrests and prohibitions of public processions in the past year. She notes a growing reluctance among clergy to speak out for fear of intensified repression, with many religious leaders now in exile. The Vatican noted that since 2022, five groups of priests have been exiled, including Bishop Rolando Álvarez.
Despite the fear surrounding them, the faithful continue to gather, some clandestinely, to partake in Mass. The anxiety lingers, as exiled clergy express hope for a brighter future, underscoring their unwavering faith and perseverance in these challenging times. Molina’s poignant plea for a Mass for her deceased father underscores the personal sacrifices made amid the crackdown, but also a wish to return home for closure in their native land.
Ultimately, while the oppression remains stark and poignant, the spirit of faith among the Nicaraguan people refuses to be extinguished, a testament to their resilience amidst adversity.
Nicaragua’s crackdown on the Catholic Church worsens, with events for Lent and Holy Week being banned for a second year. Over 200 clergy are in exile, significantly hindering religious practices, while the U.S. has condemned the Nicaraguan government’s actions. Reports reveal rising persecution, with a notable decline in religious freedom and increased repression against the Church and clergy. Despite challenges, many still gather in secret, showcasing resilience and hope in their faith.
In summary, Nicaragua’s increasing crackdown on the Catholic Church presents a grave humanitarian concern, marked by the exile of thousands of religious figures and harsh repression of worship. U.S. officials and human rights organisations are vocally denouncing these actions, while church leaders in exile reflect on the sacrifices made by those still serving the faithful in their homeland. The enduring spirit of the Nicaraguan people amidst adversity speaks volumes about their unwavering faith and resilience, even in the face of oppressive governance.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
