Mexico (South)

Key Facts:
Leader: President Felipe Calderon
Population: 107 million (94% Christian)
Majority Religion: Roman Catholicism
Type of Government: Federal republic

In Chiapas evangelical churches have been growing, where the dominant religion is a mix of Catholicism and animism.

But their refusal to join in the fiestas where illicit alcohol and drugs are sold and to encourage young people to join illegal armed groups has outraged lawless and powerful local landlords.

As a result thousands have been expelled from their homes, some pastors have been abducted and killed, and Christians have been unjustly imprisoned.

Prayer

• Praise God that so many are discovering Jesus to be 'good news to the poor'. Pray that they would grow in their faith and be strong when they face hardship
• Pray for an end to abuses of power by local leaders
• Open Doors has been supporting Christian prisoners and their families. Pray that they would be strengthened and know God's peace.