Father Ernesto Baltazar Hernández Vilchis has been reported missing by the Mexican Diocese of Cuautitlán. According to news outlet Milenio, the priest was last seen on October 27 in the Ampliación La Piedad neighborhood in the State of Mexico. The diocese has officially lodged a complaint with the authorities.
In a statement, Bishop Efraín Mendoza indicated that the diocese was “fully and completely willing to collaborate with the authorities” to find the priest. He also urged the church community to avoid speculation and to stay informed only through official diocesan channels. The bishop has requested the clergy and the Catholic community of Cuautitlán to pray for the safe return of Father Ernesto.
An investigation is underway, and the State of Mexico’s Missing Persons Search Commission has requested the public’s help in providing any information that helps locate the priest.
The disappearance of priests has become a worrying phenomenon in Mexico. The Catholic Church has been calling for thorough investigations and justice as the clergy face violence in the country. Recently, another Catholic priest, Fr. Bertoldo Pantaleón Estrada, was found dead on October 6 after being reported missing.