MEXICO CITY (CNS) – Mexican Catholic officials called for calm as angry protests over hikes in the government-set gasoline price consume the country.

Senior clergy also called for federal officials to show sensitivity toward the plight of millions of poor and middle-class Mexicans, struggling to make ends meet, as the country’s sinking currency erodes their purchasing power and higher prices for gasoline could increase costs for basics such as food and transportation.

Outrage erupted almost immediately after the government announced increases of more than 20 percent, implemented Jan. 1 due to deregulation of the gasoline distribution and retailing market. The protests included peaceful marches throughout the country for more than a week; media reported the looting of at least 250 stores.

Mexicans say they cannot absorb the increased cost of gasoline.