Jose Luis Lacunza, a Roman Catholic Cardinal who was recently located after being missing for two days, has been found in Boquete, an area near his diocese in western Panama, according to the Panamanian police.
A video circulating on social media captures a police officer engaged in conversation with the esteemed 79-year-old bishop of the Diocese of David, who holds the distinguished position of being the senior Catholic cleric in the country. The interaction takes place through the window of a car.
Missing Panama Cardinal Found Safe
Lacunza was discovered in his vehicle appearing somewhat disoriented, but in overall good condition. Lacunza holds the unique distinction of being the sole cardinal in the country.
Earlier in the day, prosecutors in the state of Chiriqui announced that they have initiated an investigation. Lacunza serves as the bishop for the David archdiocese in Chiriqui.In a statement, the archdiocese confirmed that Lacunza has not been seen since Tuesday afternoon and has reported his disappearance to authorities.
Panama's interim attorney general, Javier Caraballo, informed the press in Panama City that investigators were en route from the capital to Chiriqui to carry out interviews, as per Fox News.
According to a statement released on Feb. 1, the diocese has reported the case to the public prosecutor's office, who have promptly initiated investigations.
"We are calling upon the faithful to come together in prayer, uniting our hearts with the same compassion as Jesus, in the hope of soon finding our diocesan pastor," the statement read.
The Panamanian Bishops' Conference has expressed concern and is urging everyone to join in constant prayer to find out his whereabouts soon. The Archdiocese of Panama has requested prayers and expressed deep concern regarding Lacunza's disappearance.
In a post on February 1, Metropolitan Archbishop José Domingo Ulloa Mendieta called on the people to unite in prayer, asking for a swift resolution. In relation to the investigation, the attorney general of the country, Javier Caraballo, announced to the local media on February 1 that there is an ongoing investigation taking place.
He emphasized that a team of prosecutors from Panama City will be traveling to Chiriquí to provide assistance in the investigation and determine the facts. The prelate holds a significant position within the Catholic Church in Panama.
In 1969, he became a priest in Pamplona, Spain, as a member of the Order of the Augustinian Recollects. Later, in 1985, he was appointed as an auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Panama, and on October 29, 1994, he was named bishop of Chitré by St. John Paul II.
He was appointed bishop of the Diocese of David on Aug. 28, 1999, and he continues to serve in that role. In 2015, Pope Francis bestowed upon him the honor of becoming the first cardinal of the Catholic Church in Panama and of the Order of the Augustinian Recollects.
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