The Diocese of Paterson, New Jersey, is mourning the death of Father Rafael Ciro, the pastor of St. Stephen’s Church. Bishop Kevin Sweeney has confirmed that Father Ciro, a Colombian-born priest, died by suicide.
In a public statement, Bishop Sweeney addressed the “profound sadness” of the community. “We have received official confirmation from the Medical Examiner that Father Rafael died by suicide,” he wrote.
The Bishop’s statement described the loss as a heavy blow to the entire diocesan family, including the clergy, the St. Stephen’s parish, and Father Ciro’s family and friends in Colombia.
According to the Bishop, Father Ciro had been a “faithful, joyful, and dedicated priest” since his ordination in 2013. The statement also highlighted the importance of understanding mental health, noting that Father Ciro “fought the good fight in his struggles with mental illness with the support and care of friends, counselors, and brother priests.”
Concluding with a message of prayer and hope, Bishop Sweeney said the “profound desperation” that led to the tragedy is difficult to comprehend. He encouraged the community to “lift Father Rafael and his grieving loved ones and colleagues up in prayer for the consolation that only God gives.”
