Violent gangs target and attack Christians who oppose their illegal activities.
bottom“We were afraid. We heard the mob say they were going to burn down our house.”
– Ascuncion, a believer from Mexico
In Mexico, criminal groups struggle for territorial control. Christians are perceived to be against criminal operations and violence, and are therefore at constant risk of being targeted.
In rural indigenous communities, anyone who turns from traditional religious beliefs can face rejection and punishment in the form of fines, imprisonment, and forced displacement. Church buildings have been vandalised by those who have a radical commitment to secularism and are opposed to any Christian values.
Criminal networks that have spread throughout Mexico act as drivers of persecution wherever the church is perceived as a threat to their interests. They were able to take advantage of the socio-political instability surrounding the COVID-19 crisis to reinforce and increase their territorial dominance, generating greater vulnerability (and increased violence) for Christians.
The pandemic also encouraged the indigenous community authorities to act more harshly against Christians refusing to adhere to traditional customs.
– Pray that believers will have wisdom and courage when confronted with organised violence.
– Pray for those who come to faith in indigenous communities and find themselves ostracised.
– Pray that God will transform the hearts of gang members and bring them to know Him.
