Photo: VOMC
On April 26th, 151 members of the Great Commission Baptist Church from two villages in Hidalgo State were forced from their homes because of their belief in Christianity. These believers have experienced years of tension because of their refusal to participate in local religious festivals involving their villages' ancient tribal rituals, drunkenness and debauchery. Prior to the forced displacement, hostile community members physically attacked several of the believers, turned off the power to their homes, banned their Christian children from attending school, and committed many other incidents of intimidation and harassment. (Learn more.)
Originally, the local leaders agreed to allow all but three Christian families to return to the area. However, those who were granted permission to return were still to be subjected to fines, in addition to the previously applied severe restrictions. (Read a previously published report.) Unable to accept this proposal, the displaced Christians found refuge in a sports complex in Huejutla de los Reyes, where they had to rely on local churches for food and use river water for drinking and bathing. During this time, many of the exiled believers, especially children and the elderly, developed waterborne illnesses and infections.
Thankfully, a new municipal government took office in September and made this case a priority, ensuring that the rights of the displaced church members were upheld. After reaching an agreement with the Christians, electricity and water services were reconnected to their homes. The believers have been given a set time to examine their properties and will be granted access to state aid for any necessary repairs. In return, members of the church have agreed to contribute financially to community funds and allow all cases involving the criminal investigations of those responsible for the initial forced displacement to be closed.
Speaking of the ordeal experienced by these believers, Anna Lee Stangl from Christian Solidarity Worldwide stated that this agreement "serves as an example of what can be achieved, in terms of protecting freedom of religion or belief and upholding Mexican law, when there is political will and an investment of time and other resources on the part of the government."
Praise God for the collaborative efforts made by those representing all levels of governance in achieving this recent agreement. Pray that it will be implemented as promised, without any delays or opposition, so that these followers of Jesus can resume their lives and ministries. May the Lord soften the hearts of all those who oppose the Gospel message in these two Mexican communities, bringing about greater acceptance and understanding, so that our family in Christ will be able to practise their faith without fear of further harassment.
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