Carlos Garfias Merlos (1951 – 2026)
Written and published by the SouleMap editorial team. Published August 7, 2026. This tribute was not created by the family. Are you a family member? Claim this memorial.
In loving memory of Carlos Garfias Merlos. Born January 1, 1951. Passed away August 6, 2026. Final resting place: Tuxpan, Mexico.
Their Story
Carlos Garfias Merlos was a Mexican Roman Catholic prelate devoted to peace-building and reconciliation throughout his five-decade ministry. Born in Tuxpan, Michoacán, he studied theology and humanities at the Seminary of Morelia and later earned advanced degrees in psychotherapy and spirituality. Ordained a priest in 1975, he rose through the ranks of the Church, serving as bishop and archbishop in several conflict-affected regions of Mexico, including Ciudad Altamirano, Netzahualcóyotl, Acapulco, and Morelia. His pastoral leadership was marked by a deep commitment to constructing peace in communities ravaged by violence. He established centers to assist victims and convened dialogue initiatives across Mexico's troubled regions. Recognized in 2016 as one of Mexico's 300 most influential leaders for his peace advocacy, he served as vice president of the Mexican Conference of Bishops from 2018 to 2021. His episcopal motto—"Cristo es nuestra paz" (Christ is our peace)—reflected his life's mission. He retired as Archbishop emeritus in January 2026 and died peacefully in his native Tuxpan at age 75.
Sources
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