Mexico is one of the most dangerous countries in the world for Roman Catholic priests.
For many years, religious leaders have been a target of organised criminal groups which are embedded in the heart of many communities.
Please pray for those who find themselves in the crossfire of powerful and violent organised criminal groups, including the Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel. These cartels have been vying for control over territory in the state of Chiapas, which is rich in natural resources and borders Guatemala, making it strategic for the trafficking of humans, arms and narcotics.
We mourn and thank God for the life of Father Marcelo Pérez Pérez, who was shot to death on 20 October after officiating Mass in the city of San Cristóbal de las Casas in Chiapas State. Father Pérez Pérez had been an outspoken critic of the growing presence of cartel activity and violence in the area. According to our sources, at least four other Roman Catholic priests and a number of civil society organisations in Chiapas have also received threats.
Find out more at csw.org.uk/mexico
This week, please pray:
- For the political and social landscape of Mexico, where the activities of transnational crime groups and entrenched corruption results in the loss of many innocent lives across the country.
- That religious leaders would be protected as they minister to their communities and speak out prophetically for peace and justice amid criminal activity, corruption and violence.
- For all who grieve the death of Father Marcelo Pérez Pérez. We give thanks to God for his life and his dedication to his community, and to peace and human rights.
- For a thorough investigation into the assassination of Father Pérez Pérez.
- That all those responsible – including those at the very top of transnational organised criminal groups and corrupt government officials – are held to account.
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