On June 25, 1975, Friar Casimir Cypher OFM Conv. drove his borrowed pickup into the city of Juticalpa for repairs. He was unaware that the National Union of Campesinos had organized a demonstration that day for better implementation of land reform legislation. Hearing gunshots, Fr. Casimir ran toward the commotion.
Knowing that he was a priest, soldiers arrested him. He was stripped in the town square, ridiculed, and beaten. Along with another priest, Fr. Ivan Betancort, two of Fr. Ivan’s companions, and ten campesino leaders, Friar Casimir was brutally tortured and executed. His body and those of the others killed with him were then thrown into a deep well and dynamited in an attempt to cover up the massacre.
Friar Casimir was only 34 years old.
On June 17-25, 2024, friars from the Custody of Mary, Mother of Mercy in Central America, conducted a series of events on the 49th anniversary of Friar Casimir’s murder that were celebrated with the faithful of the Diocese of Juticalpa, Olancho Department, Honduras.
For the past three years, Friar Juan Alonzo Pagoada Acosta, Vice-Postulator of the cause of friar Casimir’s canonization, has listened to witnesses who knew Friar Casimir. He wrote the following:
Friar Casimir is known for his fame of sanctity and martyrdom together with his virtues of humility, simplicity and sobriety as well as his joy at being a Conventual Franciscan missionary. In addition, the Church has been enriched by the historical memory and ecclesial fruits of our brother’s life, which continue to be commemorated each year in the Church of Honduras. It is our hope that Friar Casimir’s example of love and closeness will continue to grow and flourish, as we remember his life and his offerings to the Church.
This series of recent commemorative events celebrated Friar Casimir’s virtues, particularly his humility, which was a key aspect of his missionary life. The participants were reminded of the importance of understanding his life, mission, and spirit, especially his dedication to evangelizing despite persecution. Updates on the preliminary canonization process were shared, and prayers for his cause and the search for more witnesses were encouraged.
Friars Juan Alonzo and José Isael have been spreading the story of Friar Casimir’s life and martyrdom to different parish communities. They have emphasized that the spirit of holiness and martyrdom that Friar Casimir embodied continues to inspire the faithful today, forty-nine years after his death. Through various forms of communication, including in-person speeches and media appearances, they have shared Friar Casimir’s story, highlighting its significance for the Church of Honduras and its ongoing relevance for today’s believers.
The ongoing investigation into Friar Casimir’s cause for canonization has sparked renewed interest within the Diocese of Juticalpa. People are eager to learn more about the Franciscan missionary spirit that guided Friar Casimir’s life, and about his personal testimony of self-sacrifice. This has led to efforts to promote Friar Casimir’s legacy among youth, church groups, and movements. Additionally, new witnesses have come forward who claim to have known Friar Casimir personally, and their testimony may be valuable to the Church in Honduras as it continues to explore his cause for canonization.
Finally, it is becoming increasingly clear that the fame of Friar Casimir’s sanctity and martyrdom is growing stronger. In recognition of this, preparations have already begun for a special diocesan celebration in 2025, which will mark the 50th anniversary of his death. May the Lord grant you peace.
-friar Juan Alonzo Pagoada Acosta OFM Conv., Vice-Postulator of the cause
