Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: November 9, 2024
We grieve with the people of Chiapas State, Mexico, who have lost a courageous advocate for peace and human rights.
Father Marcelo Pérez Pérez was shot to death on 20 October, after he had officiated Mass in the city of San Cristóbal de las Casas.
The authorities announced the arrest of one suspect on 22 October, but it is unlikely they acted alone, so we are calling on the Mexican government to carry out a thorough investigation into the assassination. Please join us in prayer.
Mexico is one of the most dangerous countries in the world for Roman Catholic priests. Religious leaders in Mexico have been a target of organised criminal groups for many years.
According to our sources, at least four other Roman Catholic priests and a number of civil society organisations in Chiapas have also received threats.
Father Pérez Pérez and the others are believed to have been targeted by transnational organised criminal groups, because they have called for an end to violence and corruption.
In September 2024, Father Pérez Pérez led a public march calling for peace in the region and spoke out against the growing presence of organised crime in Chiapas.
Powerful and violent organised criminal groups, including the Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, have been vying for control over territory in the state, which is rich in natural resources and borders Guatemala, making it strategic for the trafficking of humans, arms and narcotics.
In summary, please pray:
- For all who are grieving the loss of Father Marcelo Pérez Pérez. We give thanks to God for his life and his dedication to peace and human rights.
- For a thorough investigation into the assassination of Father Pérez Pérez.
- That all those responsible – including those at the very top of transnational organised criminal groups – are held to account. Pray also that the Lord would move powerfully to turn their hearts away from violence, corruption and control.
- For the safety of religious leaders and civil society organisations in Mexico, and that the recent threats would amount to nothing
‘The Lord is the strength of his people, a fortress of salvation for his anointed one.’ (Psalm 28:8)