Two Missionaries Expelled

A city in Mexico

Two missionaries with Christian Aid Mission went to serve amongst the Triqui people of Oaxaca, Mexico, several years ago. Because the village had restrictions on expressing religious beliefs, the women knew they would need to be accepted by the community before sharing their faith in Christ. Therefore, they set up a bakery and, through this business, had opportunities to build relationships and present the Gospel.

Recently, local authorities came to the women and demanded their attendance at a meeting. A group of 40 men from the community had gathered at the meeting with accusations that the missionaries were "robbing them of their language." The women were endeavouring to learn the language so they could minister to the people. The two tried to defend themselves, but to no avail. They were told to gather their belongings, leave immediately, and never return.

There is cause to be concerned for other Christians remaining in the village. Tribal villages in southern Mexico are often self-governed and allowed a measure of autonomy by the Mexican government. It is not uncommon for Christian villagers to be driven from their own communities if they do not participate in the region's traditional religious ceremonies.

Prayerfully uphold these expelled missionaries, as they continue sharing their faith in Christ wherever they go. On behalf of the new believers still residing in the village, pray for protection and wisdom. Also ask the Lord to touch the hearts and minds of all the other villagers, that they will be drawn to faith in the Living God.

  • Country Information

    Population
    129,875,529 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Mestizo (Amerindian-Spanish) (62), Predominantly Amerindian (21), Amerindian (7), other (10)

    Religion (%)
    Roman Catholic/Syncretism (78) Evangelical (11.2) unaffiliated (10.6)

    Leader
    President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo (2024)

    Government type
    Federal presidential republic

    Legal system
    Civil law system with US constitutional law influence; judicial review of legislative acts

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for Mexico

    Pray that the Christians residing within these regions will exemplify the grace of God toward those who oppose them. May these believers be further strengthened and encouraged to continue faithfully sharing the Gospel and demonstrating the love of Jesus. Ask the Lord to abundantly bless and multiply their efforts, resulting in a great harvest of lasting spiritual fruit in the lives of those within their communities and beyond – impacting the nation of Mexico as a whole.

Mexico News

  • Displaced Christians Pressured to Accept Agreement
    A white church building is surrounded by trees with a hillside in the background.
    A church building in Hidalgo.
    Photo: Wikimedia / Frankms (cc)

    More than 100 members of the Great Commission Baptist Church in Hidalgo State were recently forced from their homes because they refused to participate in their villages' religious festivals. The Christians took refuge in a government building in Huejutla de los Reyes, where they called upon municipal and state authorities to intervene. For more details on this situation, see this page.