Assú, Brazil, declares three days of mourning for Father Canindé

The municipality of Assú has declared three days of official mourning following the death of Father Francisco Canindé dos Santos at age 89. The decree, signed by Mayor Lula Soares, mandates that flags be flown at half-mast in all municipal public offices.

Father Canindé served the Parish of São João Batista for 46 years, having assumed his role there in 1966. Beyond his religious duties, he was a significant figure in the region's education and communication sectors. He served as a teacher and director for the Instituto Padre Ibiapina and Ginásio Pedro Amorim, and played a role in bringing higher education to Assú through the Universidade do Estado do Rio Grande do Norte.

His community contributions also included co-founding Rádio Princesa do Vale and serving as a conductor for marching bands. The Diocese of Santa Luzia de Mossoró and local government officials noted his long-standing commitment to social causes and vulnerable communities.