Bishop Rolando Álvarez Lagos was sentenced to more than 26 years in prison. He has a history of being targeted by the government because he has been a vocal critic of human rights abuses committed under the government of President Daniel Ortega.
On 14 January 2024, we received news that Bishop Álvarez Lagos had been freed! However, the bishop and 18 other Roman Catholic leaders and seminarians were expelled to the Vatican. Among the group was Bishop Isidoro del Carmen Mora Ortega, who was arrested on 20 December 2023 after telling his congregation that Nicaragua's bishops were ‘united in prayer’ for Bishop Álvarez Lagos.
Find out more at csw.org.uk/nicaragua
Sunday 4 February
Give thanks that Bishop Álvarez Lagos is no longer in prison. However, the bishop was stripped of his nationality and his civil rights for life, and forced to leave Nicaragua. Pray for the restoration of his citizenship, and all others who have been stripped of their nationality – which violates international law.
Monday 5 February
Twelve Roman Catholic priests were released from prison and forced into exile in October 2023. Pray for an end to the crackdown on religious leaders and independent voices – that no others would be unjustly imprisoned, nor expelled from the country.
Tuesday 6 February
Pray for all those who have been threatened, harassed or prevented from attending religious services because of their religious beliefs. May God grant them peace and encouragement, and change their circumstances.
Wednesday 7 February
‘But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.’ (Isaiah 40:31) Pray that God would renew the strength of Nicaraguan citizens, especially Christians who may be fearful of the authorities.
Thursday 8 February
Pray for President Daniel Ortega; his wife and Vice-President, Rosario Murillo; and their inner circle. May the Lord open their eyes to the injustices they have committed and soften their hearts, that they might relinquish control and their desire for power.
Friday 9 February
Today marks one year since 222 political prisoners – including several religious leaders – were sent into exile in the US and stripped of their citizenship. Ask God to be with them as they continue to adjust to life in a new country, and bring comfort to the loved ones they were forced to leave behind.
Saturday 10 February
Father God, we lift up Bishop Álvarez Lagos, who was unjustly sentenced to over 26 years in prison on this day last year. Today we praise you that he is no longer serving that sentence, and ask that you continue to work justice in his life. May he experience a tangible sense of your presence and be strengthened as he adjusts to life in exile. Amen.