We count it as a win whenever we have an opportunity to share our findings – especially with those who have a mandate to make a difference. We presented our report on indigenous religious minority women in Mexico (‘Let her be heard’) at the June session of the UN Human Rights Council, in an online event.

Among the attendees was a representative from the Permanent Mission of Mexico to the UN in Geneva, who thanked us for the report and said she would raise our recommendations with the relevant authorities. It was hugely encouraging to see people recognising the importance of having the women we interviewed for the report share their testimonies in their own words, that their voices may finally be heard.

Find out more at csw.org.uk/mexico

Sunday 9 October

Give thanks for everyone who has engaged with our ‘Let her be heard’ report at the UN and in other political arenas. Pray that they will take every opportunity to act on our recommendations – from this report and all our ongoing research on Mexico.

Monday 10 October

In a briefing in March, we urged the Mexican government to carry out thorough investigations into crimes against religious leaders such as assassinations, kidnappings and threats. Pray that they would take this recommendation seriously and work to hold those responsible to account.

Tuesday 11 October

Organised criminal groups know that an effective way to destabilise a community is to target religious leaders. They do so to establish a culture of silence and terror, yet we believe God can transform their hearts. Pray for divine intervention today.

Wednesday 12 October

Religious leaders who are involved in social work are particularly vulnerable in regions which have a strong presence of criminal groups. Ask God to bless these leaders as they serve the community and reach out to those in need.

Thursday 13 October

In Baja California State, Father José Guadalupe Rivas Saldaña was tortured and murdered in May 2022. He directed the Our Lady of Guadalupe Migrant Shelter – a possible motive for the attack. Pray that his legacy and that of other murdered priests inspires more young people to reject violence, and choose a better path.

Friday 14 October

Over 18 Roman Catholic priests were killed between 2017 and 2022. The situation is likely similar for Protestant leaders, but many cases go unreported for fear of retaliation from criminal groups. Pray that the authorities would investigate with integrity, and for an end to Mexico’s extremely high levels of impunity.

Saturday 15 October

Lord Jesus, light of the world, shine into the dark corners of Mexico where violations are rife and seemingly unpunished. Sustain all who are fearful for their lives and make Psalm 18:28 their reality today: ‘You, Lord, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light.’ Amen.

Download a printable copy of this week’s Prayer Diary.