How are Christians persecuted in Mexico?
- The pervasive and widespread presence of criminal groups in Mexico puts many Christians in danger, particularly those who bravely stand up to them.
- Christians can face threats, abduction and even murder at the hands of criminal gangs.
- Persecution also affects believers living in indigenous communities. Those who stop following local beliefs and rituals to follow Jesus are exposed to fines, discrimination, beatings, imprisonment and displacement. Sadly, Christians can’t rely on the state for protection.
Why are Christians persecuted in Mexico?
- Efforts by the authorities to address the problem of criminal gangs have largely been ineffective, leaving vulnerable believers unprotected and without justice.
- In many places, cartels operate with near impunity, even infiltrating or replacing local authorities.
“We were branded as enemies of tradition.”
Joaquín
- Those who leave indigenous faiths to follow Jesus can be seen as dishonouring their ancestors. “We were branded as enemies of tradition,” shares Joaquín*, a believer from an indigenous background.
Who is particularly vulnerable in Mexico?
- Criminal groups operate throughout Mexico, making it dangerous for any Christians living in areas under their influence – particularly those, like church leaders, whose courageous efforts in promoting peace are deemed a threat to gangs.
- Believers living in indigenous regions are also especially vulnerable to hostility.
What has changed in Mexico in the past year?
- There has been little change in Mexico this year. The country has dropped a place on the World Watch List, but the level of hostility experienced by many believers remains the same.
- Troublingly, criminality continues to spread across Mexico, putting more Christians in danger – especially those who dare to counter evil with good.
How can I help Christians in Mexico?
Please keep praying for your brothers and sisters in Mexico. Your prayers make an enormous difference to those following Jesus no matter the cost.
Open Doors strengthens Christians affected by persecution in Mexico through projects that include livelihood support, trauma care and legal advocacy.
*Name changed for security reasons
Sovereign Lord, thank You for the remarkable courage shown by Christians in Mexico. Continue to embolden Your children, protect them from reprisals, and may their words and actions lead their persecutors to You. We pray that the authorities will respond with greater urgency, protection and justice for those affected by persecution, and may the threat of criminal groups recede. God of all comfort, may those wounded by persecution know Your healing touch today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
