Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: February 7, 2026
Pastor Mariano Velásquez Martínez is a Protestant pastor from the community of Santiago Malacatepec, in Mexico’s Oaxaca State.
He has led a small church since 2023. But now Pastor Mariano has been forced out of the community after he refused to kneel and pray to a Roman Catholic saint.
The pastor, his wife and his four-month-old baby are now staying temporarily with relatives in Oaxaca City. Please stand with them in prayer.
The case so far:
In late October 2025, Pastor Mariano was assigned the role of ‘mayordomo’ within the community. This is a stewardship role usually assigned to members of the majority religion, which is Roman Catholic. The role involves helping to organise and lead a traditional Roman Catholic festival and paying for the associated expenses.
On 6 January, Pastor Mariano was forced to accept the position. Knowing he had no choice, he accepted the role on the understanding that his duties would only require him to provide candles and flowers. However, on 15 January he was ordered by a fellow mayordomo to light candles, kneel and pray to an image of Saint Christ of Esquipulas, known as Black Christ.
The pastor reminded him that this violated the agreement made with the village authorities on account of his religious beliefs, but the second mayordomo complained to the village leadership, who detained Pastor Mariano for five days.
He was then bound with a rope and taken before an assembly of about 180 men, where the village authorities announced that he was to be expelled.
The pastor was forced to sign a blank piece of paper which he fears will be used to fabricate a story that he left the community voluntarily.
Please pray:
- That the truth will be heard, and justice will prevail. Pray specifically that the government of Oaxaca will take swift action to hold those responsible to account.
- That the Lord would provide for Pastor Velásquez Martínez and his family, and make a way for them to return safely home.
- For the members of the New Way and Life Church, who have lost their leader. Ask God to guide them, strengthen them, and give hope for the future.
- For many others living under pressure, injustice or persecution in Mexico – including in indigenous communities like Santiago Malacatepec. Pray that everyone would be able to enjoy their right to freedom of religion or belief.