The Diocese of La Paz, in Baja California Sur (Mexico), is in mourning following the death of the emeritus bishop Mons. Miguel Ángel Alba Díaz, which occurred on the morning of February 2, 2026, just hours after his resignation due to age and health reasons was accepted by Pope Leo XIV. The news was confirmed by the Mexican Episcopal Conference and by the diocese itself, which have expressed their sorrow and invited the faithful to pray for the eternal rest of the prelate.
Accepted Resignation and Trajectory of Pastoral Service
Alba Díaz had turned 75 on January 23, 2026, the age at which he submitted his canonical resignation in accordance with Church law, and his resignation was accepted by the Holy See on January 31, 2026. After acceptance by the pontiff, Bishop Miguel Ángel Espinosa Garza, until then coadjutor bishop, immediately assumed pastoral responsibility for the diocese.
Born in Monterrey, Nuevo León, in 1951, Alba Díaz dedicated much of his life to priestly and episcopal ministry, with a special focus on priestly formation, pastoral accompaniment, and promoting peace in a region affected by violence and insecurity. His work was recognized both within the diocese and by the Mexican Church in general.
A Death that Shocks the Ecclesial Community
According to the diocese’s account, Alba Díaz died from health complications while receiving medical attention in intensive care. His sudden death occurred just hours after his successor assumed the episcopal office, marking an especially emotional day for the Catholic community of La Paz.
The Mexican Episcopal Conference expressed its sorrow through a statement inviting prayers for the rest of the emeritus bishop and highlighting his legacy of service, pastoral closeness, and witness of faith. Likewise, Bishop Espinosa Garza remembered him as a generous pastor who faithfully fulfilled his ministerial mission.
Preparations for the Exequial Celebrations
The liturgical celebrations on the occasion of his death began on the same day with the ringing of bells in all the temples of the diocese, followed by vigils and multiple Masses in his honor. The program includes daily liturgical celebrations in the Cathedral of Our Lady of La Paz, where the bishop’s remains have been prepared so that the faithful can pay homage and offer prayers for his soul.
In addition, the diocese has organized a novena of prayers that will be held in the cathedral and in all the parishes, as a sign of communion and Christian hope in the face of human fragility and the certainty of Christ’s victory over death.
Read also: Emeritus bishop dies after his resignation has been accepted