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MexicoHostile
Christian Persecution in Mexico
Overview:
Specific areas within Mexico have a high concentration of indigenous minority groups. These minority communities, which maintain a separate identity and language, are systematically oppressed by local authorities. Christians among them are persecuted by Marxist and animist groups as well as village leaders. Tribal leaders persecute Christians in defense of their indigenous culture in several rural areas, and the federal government allows this. These communities are remotely located and difficult to reach. Despite persecution, the number of Christians has continued to grow in these areas.
Major Religion:
Many people in rural Mexico practice Christo-paganism, a syncretistic blend of ancient pagan practices and Roman Catholicism. There is a strong Marxist (atheistic communist) movement in some southern areas, especially in the state of Chiapas.
Persecutor:
Both syncretistic Christo-pagan village leaders and armed Marxist (atheistic communist) rebels persecute Christians.
What It Means To Follow Christ In Mexico:
Christian converts are rejected by their community and are often forced from their homes and villages in some rural areas. Large groups of Christians have at times been driven from their homes in the south. Converts and faithful witnesses for Christ lose their jobs, inheritances and land. Those who remain in their communities are marginalized, partly because they will not participate in pagan celebrations that feature drunkenness and debauchery.
Access To Bibles:
There is little access to Bibles in these isolated communities, and few are available in the indigenous languages. Give Bibles
VOM Work:
VOM distributes Bibles in both Spanish and indigenous languages, provides support for those driven from their homes and communities, and responds to persecution incidents. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry
Prayer Requests:
- Pray for towns in Chiapas, where violence and civil unrest hinder church attendance.
- Pray for the protection of workers in areas of Marxist influence in southern Mexico.
- Pray for those losing land, housing, community and family for following the Lord.
- Pray for local leaders who enforce laws under which pastors and church leaders can be imprisoned.