Pray for: Mexico

Mexico faces social and economic challenges. The government sees the difficulty of traditional solutions and now invites Christians and churches to help meet human needs. 60% of Mexicans struggle with poverty, both rural poor and slum-dwellers. Native Amerindians face greater poverty, less education, and more political unrest. Evangelical ministry among them has a good response, but also opposition. Pray that Mexicans, both indigenous and mestizo, might find their identity and purpose in the love of Christ and the purposes of God.

The Catholic Church dominated the country for 300 years, and now is very diverse. Most Mexicans are culturally Catholic but only 10% regularly attend church. Christ-centred renewal grew within the Catholic Church, and the Alpha course draws Catholics to Christ. Many Mexicans blend the gods and goddesses of Amerindian spiritism into a folk version of Catholicism. Pray for the Holy Spirit to break the influence of these ancient gods and the spirit world. Pray for renewal to spread through the Mexican Catholic Church.

Evangelicals numbered 800,000 in 1960. They now number over 9 million, and the movement still grows! The Catholic Church oppressed ministry work in the past, but the government now gives freedom at local, state, and national levels. Both international denominations and indigenous movements grow well. The Evangelical Fraternity of Mexico (CONEMEX) works for unity and for good relations with the government. A Pentecostal fellowship also brings together the millions of Pentecostals. Large events such as the March for Jesus/March of Glory and prayer movements draw believers together. Geographical distance and broken relationships divide many families, and many are first-generation believers who need help to grow in their commitment and faith. Pray for godly church leaders, and for more pastors willing to work among the poor in rural or slum areas. City jobs and bigger churches attract many new pastors.