22/10/2011
A STATEMENT ON THE KILLING OF FR. FAUSTO TENTORIO, P. I. M. E
“The Master sent a servant to the vineyard and they killed him.” (Mark 12: 5)
We, the Claretian Missionaries, vehemently condemn the merciless killing of Fr. Fausto “Pops” Tentorio, P.I.M.E. We are one with the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (P.I.M.E.) fathers in their deep anguish and in their clarion call for justice. Fr. Fausto was a servant sent by the master to the vineyard of the Lumad tribes of Arakan Valley, North Cotabato, in the Diocese of Kidapawan, but last October 17, 2011, he was shot to death.
Fr. Tentorio’s death serves as an inspiration for us to selflessly share in the mission work of Christ for those who are marginalized and oppressed by the society. His death shall not be meaningless, because his legacy of life of service and steadfastness to his mission keeps our hearts ablaze with love, hope, and enthusiasm to serve.
As our expression of solidarity with the P.I.M.E. Fathers, with his loved ones, and with everyone who deeply feel the loss of a martyred missionary, and all who condemn his killing, we, the Claretian Missionaries, will mark October 21, 2011 as a Black Friday and offer prayers and a special mass for him. We will not allow the forces of greed and exploitation on the indigenous people to overpower us. We will be vigilant and we will continue to clamor for justice, peace and integrity of creation.
The love of Christ urges us on.
CLARETIAN MISSIONARIES- Philippine Province
