Pray for Mexico

Mexico is a unique combination of ancient indigenous traditions and thriving modern cities. Handcrafted works of art, picturesque beaches, lush rainforests, and the temple-pyramids of ancient empires all make this nation a top tourist destination. Known for their strong national and regional pride as well as familial bonds, the Mexican people are a diverse mix of Amerindian, Mestizo, and European descent. Vibrant celebrations blend indigenous and Spanish colonial roots, such as Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), regional fiestas, and traditional pilgrimages. In the last 30 years, economic reformation has grown Mexico into one of Latin America’s largest economies, and it had the honor of hosting FIFA World Cup matches in 2026. The nation’s first female president was elected in 2024.

The nation continues to face serious concerns with a wide wealth gap, poor job conditions, and lack of work. During the 2010s, cartel turf wars and gang violence drove the total death toll above 300,000. While homicide rates have slowly gone down, Mexico’s “kingpin strategy” of targeting leaders has failed to stop the cartels, instead breaking them into smaller, more violent groups. Fear and police corruption have blocked any lasting solutions. Tens of thousands of children live in terrible conditions on the streets and in the sewers of Mexico City. Many inhale a harmful solvent that numbs their pain and helps them forget. Multitudes in Mexico and other mostly Central American nations have traveled north in desperation, hoping to cross into the United States in search of opportunity. Along this perilous journey, women and children often disappear.

A majority of Mexicans identify as Christian, but many are cultural Catholics and blend Christianity with traditional pagan beliefs. They have a form of religion without the transformative power of Jesus Christ as personal Lord. There remains a great need for this Christian majority to replace cultural faith with a vibrant and personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Although Protestants are increasingly accepted, they face widespread persecution and violence from organized crime, corrupt officials, and even their own families. This is particularly prevalent in southern states when individuals refuse to participate in pagan rituals. Even so, the Evangelical Church is growing, even shifting from a traditional mission “receiver” to a mission “sender.” The Gospel still has yet to spread to every people group in Mexico. The Church stands  in need of discipleship, sound biblical doctrine, and strong Christian leadership.