Members of Iglesia Cristiana Amor y Resurrección gathered Saturday night, comforting one another after the loss of their beloved pastor, Pedro Cantu Garza. For more than 30 years, Cantu guided the congregation, and his sudden death has left the community in deep grief.
Shooting at Pastor’s home
Just after midnight on Saturday, Houston police responded to a call about a burglary in progress at Cantu’s home in the Memorial area.
- PREVIOUS REPORT: Homeowner shot and killed during reported burglary in west Houston
Investigators say that when the pastor confronted a man inside his house, gunfire was exchanged. Both men were rushed to hospitals with gunshot wounds.
Pastor Cantu was pronounced dead, while the suspect survived and is now in police custody, charged with murder. Authorities recovered a handgun from the home and continue to investigate whether the attack was random or if the suspect knew Cantu.
A personal loss
“This was my pastor,” said Israel Paniagua, a church member, expressing the congregation’s shock. “He was a man from Mexico, from Monterrey. He and his wife, Pastor Alieticia, were very special to the church. Last Sunday, he said, ‘The glory is waiting for me because I’m ready to go.’ For him, we are happy — but for the congregation and friends, we are very sad.”
Neighborhood in shock
Outside the church, dozens of people gathered on the steps, hugging and consoling one another, while inside nearly a hundred more filled the sanctuary, praying and sharing memories of Cantu’s leadership and compassion.
Neighbors in the normally quiet Memorial area expressed concern and disbelief.
“This has been a safe neighborhood for the past 10 years,” said one resident. “Now, I’ll be putting extra locks on our doors. It’s just too crazy.”
Holding onto faith
As the investigation continues, the church remains focused on remembering the man who led them for decades.
“We are holding on to our faith,” Paniagua said. “He touched so many lives, and we will honor him by keeping that spirit alive.”
Police continue to seek information about the suspect and the circumstances surrounding the shooting.