CHIAPAS, Mexico — In 1 of at least 3 instances of persecution of Christians in southern Mexico’s Chiapas state in January, village leaders reneged on their agreement to allow 47 evangelicals who were expelled for their faith to return to their homes.
In accordance with the agreement arranged by state officials, Protestants from Buenavista Bahuitz village Jan. 20 tried to return to their community after syncretistic Catholics — who fuse together various beliefs into one religion — expelled them in 2012 for their faith. When the Protestants and Chiapas officials accompanying them reached Buenavista Bahuitz, community leaders again refused entry until the Protestants convert to Catholicism, according to advocacy group Christian Solidarity Worldwide.
“Traditionalist” Catholics of the village, who practice a blend of Roman Catholicism and indigenous customs involving drunken festivals, have been at odds with the Protestant minority for years. Local authorities who are such syncretistic Catholics told them they could come back to their property only if they became Catholic and took part in their religious activities, including paying for the costly celebrations that involve large amounts of alcohol.
The Christians declined the offer. They returned to church property in Comitán de Domínguez where they’ve lived as displaced persons for two and a half years.
(MS)
Share with others: