After 300 years of rule by Spain, Mexico gained its independence in 1810 and established a republic in 1822. In 1917 a new constitution was instituted with Mexico as a federal republic with a president elected every six years for a maximum of one term.

While poverty and crime are major issues in Mexico, religious freedom is generally respected and in the past several years, relations between evangelicals and the Roman Catholic Church have been improving.

For several years, the southern state of Chiapas has not enjoyed this freedom as numerous incidents have been reported against evangelical Christians. These attacks are often provoked by Caciques, powerful community chieftains who practice "traditionalist" religion, a semi-pagan mix of Roman Catholic beliefs and ancient Mayan religion. Evangelical churches have been destroyed and the members beaten.

In October 2003, Pastor Mariano Díaz Méndez was assassinated and another pastor died under mysterious circumstances. More recently, other areas have seen an increase in religious persecution. Several members of the Fountain of Heaven Church was started in Cuateceometl, Hidalgo, Mexico have faced short periods in jail since 1997 because of local authorities who are opposed to the presence of any non-Catholic church.  In Spring 2005, pressure increased as the town council decided to rid the area of all non-Catholics.  Every member was fined 1000 pesos and informed them that they must renounce their evangelical faith.  If they did not comply, their homes and church building would be destroyed.

Prayer Requests

• Pray for protection for evangelical families suffering persecution at the hands of these community leaders.
• Pray that these Christians suffering for their faith will be an example of the love and grace of God to their tormentors.
• Pray that the authorities will work to provide protection for these believers and that the difficulties facing the state of Chiapas will be resolved