Pope Leo XIV Mourns Bishop Afonso Killed in Mozambique Home Invasion at 1 Residence
Updated
Updated · National Catholic Register · Jun 6
Pope Leo XIV Mourns Bishop Afonso Killed in Mozambique Home Invasion at 1 Residence
3 articles · Updated · National Catholic Register · Jun 6
Summary
Pope Leo XIV said he learned "with sorrow" of the killing of Quelimane Bishop Osório Citora Afonso, who authorities said was shot during a home invasion at his residence.
Government officials said assailants invaded the bishop's home, while the Vatican called the death a "grave act of violence" and urged prayers for Mozambique and an end to bloodshed.
Afonso, appointed to lead the Quelimane diocese in July 2025, also served as apostolic administrator of Beira and had repeatedly warned about violence in the region before his death.
Aid to the Church in Need said the murder adds another "dark cloud" over Mozambique's Church, which is already contending with terrorist violence in Cabo Delgado; a Mass was planned June 6 and funeral details were pending.