‘When criminals kill a priest they are sending a message – “If I can kill a priest then I can kill anyone.”’ – Father Omar Sotelo Aguilar

While the Mexican constitution upholds the right to freedom of religion or belief, violations experienced by faith or belief communities remain a common occurrence in several states in the country. The government often fails to intervene in cases of violence, discrimination and forced displacement. Religious leaders and priests are also often targeted by criminal groups and real investigations rarely take place.

Find out more at csw.org.uk/mexico

Sunday 10 October

It has now been over two years since the Inter-American Human Rights Commission called on the Mexican government to determine the whereabouts of Pastor Aarón Méndez Ruiz and Alfredo Castillo de Luna, who were abducted in August 2019. They remain missing today. Please pray for their safe return.

Monday 11 October

Children in Mexico continue to face restrictions on their right to education on account of their religion or belief or those of their parents. Sometimes they are discriminated against in schools, while in other cases they are excluded altogether. Ask God to foster a spirit of coexistence and inclusion in the educational system today.

Tuesday 12 October

On 13 June Franciscan Father Juan Antonio Orozco Alvarado was among several killed in the crossfire of violent clashes between rival criminal armed groups. Mexico continues to be one of the most dangerous countries in the world to be a priest. Pray protection over Mexico’s priests today.

Wednesday 13 October

Two Protestant families from the village of La Mesa Limantitla have continued to face pressure to renounce their faith. Pray for them today.

Thursday 14 October

Psalm 46:1 says ‘God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.’ Pray that families who have been forcibly displaced from their homes on account of their religious beliefs would know this truth today.

Friday 15 October

The government of Mexico regularly fails to combat violations of the right to freedom of religion or belief, rarely intervening in cases of discrimination or violence against religion or belief communities. Ask God to raise up leaders with integrity and determination to end the culture of impunity.

Saturday 16 October

Lord God, we lift the nation of Mexico to you. Thank you for its rich and diverse heritage. We pray that this would be celebrated, and that you would frustrate the plans and change the hearts of those who seek to sow division, violence and intolerance. Amen.

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