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The pervasive and widespread presence of criminal groups in Mexico puts many Christians in danger, particularly those who bravely seek to oppose criminality. Efforts by the authorities to address the issue 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.
Persecution also affects believers living in indigenous communities. Those who stop following local beliefs and rituals to follow Jesus are exposed to fines, discrimination, imprisonment and displacement. Sadly, as is the case elsewhere, Christians can’t rely on the state for protection.
Meanwhile, hostility towards Christian views on marriage, family and life continues to grow. Public expressions of faith are increasingly subject to legal scrutiny, depending on the prevailing political context.
Criminal groups operate throughout Mexico, making it dangerous for any Christians living in areas under their influence – particularly those, such as church leaders, whose efforts in promoting peace are deemed a threat to gangs. Believers living in indigenous regions are also especially vulnerable to hostility.
"Christians are rejected because we don’t follow the traditions. We don’t live the way they expect us to."
Alissa, a ten-year-old girl who knows that God has not abandoned her, despite persecution.
There’s been little change in Mexico since last year. Troublingly, criminality continues to spread across Mexico, putting more Christians in danger – especially those who dare to counter evil with good. This year saw a worrying rise in serious incidents, including one of the highest numbers in recent years of Christians killed, as well as new forms of violence that had rarely been recorded before. Hostility also persists in several indigenous communities against Christians who refuse to take part in traditional or syncretistic religious practices. Meanwhile, despite being a predominantly Christian country, and the constitution’s protection of religious freedom, believers are encountering growing opposition in the public sphere for their views on different issues. On International Women’s Day in March 2025, numerous cathedrals were vandalised because of people’s views on abortion, leading to clashes as Christians tried to defend their buildings.
Open Doors strengthens Christians affected by persecution in Mexico through projects that include livelihood support, trauma care and legal advocacy.
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. Amen.
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