(An excerpt from “Being a Franciscan and a Missionary is the Greatest Love God has Envisioned for Me” – See the full article at ofmconv.net)
On June 25, 2026, the friars promoting the cause for the beatification of Friar Casimir Cypher, together with the Provincial Custody of Mary, Mother of Mercy in Central America and the Diocese of Juticalpa, Honduras, held a day of commemoration to mark the 51st anniversary of his martyrdom. Friar Casimir was murdered, along with thirteen others, on June 25, 1975 in the village of Los Horcones, located in the Lepaguare area of Olancho Department, Honduras. …
…The day of commemoration highlighted his virtues, his missionary spirit, and the enduring memory of his witness, thereby strengthening his reputation for holiness among the People of God and fostering devotion to him as a martyr.
…family members of Friar Casimir and residents of neighboring communities gathered near the site of Friar Casimir’s martyrdom for a commemorative prayer service. They then joined a memorial walk with members of the media and individuals who had personally witnessed the events that left a lasting mark on the history of the Church in Olancho.
At the end of the day of commemoration, the parish community gathered around the altar for Mass, presided over by the Most Reverend José Bonello, OFM, Bishop of Juticalpa. The bishop entrusted the community with a mission: “Be a living memory. In every community where Friar Casimir served, may there be a family that prays, a young person who serves, and may no farmer feel alone.”
-Friar Juan Alonzo Pagoada Acosta OFM Conv.
Vice-Postulator
