Bishop José de Jesús González Hernández of the Diocese of Chilpancingo-Chilapa in the Mexican state of Guerrero has called for a week of prayer for the victims of a fireworks explosion that occurred during the patronal festival of Cocula.
The accident took place on the night of July 25 while residents celebrated the feast of St. James the Apostle in front of the Our Lady of Guadalupe parish church. A video on social media captures the moment of the explosion.
According to local media, the explosion killed three women, including an eight-months-pregnant young woman. Several victims suffered severe burns, and minors required specialized care.
Francisco Rodríguez Cisneros, Guerrero’s undersecretary for political and social development, explained that the incident happened because those responsible for the fireworks display failed to keep them at a safe distance. A rocket was propelled toward the stored fireworks, triggering the explosion. As of July 26, there were 12 injuries and four fatalities.
Prayers Requested for the Victims
In a July 26 statement, Bishop González expressed deep sorrow and dismay. “As a particular Church, we offer our prayers for the eternal rest of those who have been called to the Father’s House. We entrust their souls to the infinite mercy of God, with the firm hope of the Resurrection promised by Our Lord Jesus Christ,” he stated.
The prelate invited priests, deacons, religious, and laity to offer special prayers during the week for the eternal rest of the deceased, recovery of the injured, consolation of families, and for peace. He urged that during Mass and the rosary, prayers be offered for all victims.
He entrusted those affected to the intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. James the Apostle, asking God to pour out “upon them the balm of his love and peace.”
This story was first published by ACI Prensa, the Spanish-language sister service of EWTN News. It has been translated and adapted by EWTN News English.
