By Jeremiah Goddard
05/09/2024
Official records indicate that since 1952, at least 115,000 people have gone missing in Mexico, although the actual number is likely higher. During the 1970s, many of these disappearances were linked to government repression. In the last 20 years, however, as the authorities have battled drug cartels and organised crime has strengthened its hold in various regions, identifying those responsible and the reasons behind these disappearances has become increasingly challenging. This has created a terrifying environment where disappearances occur frequently, leaving families in despair. These tragic events are often connected to human trafficking, kidnappings, acts of revenge, and forced recruitment into criminal groups and affects not only the local communities, but also migrants who travel through Mexico.
In moments of profound loss and uncertainty, many people find that their faith becomes the steady foundation they rely on to seek hope and answers. This is particularly true for mothers like Veronica Rosas, who leaned heavily on her Christian beliefs after the kidnapping of her son, Diego. Veronica’s story, along with the stories of countless other mothers in Mexico who are desperately searching for their missing children, demonstrates how faith can sustain them even in the darkest times, when it seems as if all hope has vanished.
Despite the chaos and uncertainty surrounding her son’s disappearance, Veronica’s faith remained unshaken. Every time the kidnappers contacted her, she and her family would gather in prayer, holding on to the belief that God would intervene. Veronica recalls pleading, “Please help me, God,” a cry that captures the desperation and unwavering trust felt during such intense moments of crisis. Her faith was not passive; it was an active, relentless search for God’s comfort and guidance, even when the situation seemed beyond hope.
Churches and faith communities play an essential role in supporting mothers like Veronica as they navigate these incredibly difficult journeys. In Mexico, where violence and disappearances have sadly become all too common, some churches have stepped up to provide spiritual and practical support to those searching for their missing loved ones. One such leader is Anglican priest, Rev. Arturo Carrasco, who offers spiritual guidance to families like Veronica’s, helping them cope with the emotional and spiritual challenges they face during their search. “A disappearance puts a family’s life on pause,” Carrasco says, emphasising the deep impact these tragedies have on the mental health and well-being of those left behind. His ministry, along with others like it, provides a crucial sanctuary for grieving families.
Veronica found strength and comfort within her Christian community. Faith leaders like Rev. Carrasco and Sister Paola Clericó, part of an ecumenical group known as “The Axis of Churches,” have consistently supported mothers like Veronica throughout their struggles. This group, which includes Methodists, Evangelicals, Indigenous spiritual leaders, and even feminists, goes beyond traditional worship by offering a comprehensive approach to healing. They do more than just pray; they listen, share meals, and walk alongside these mothers as they search for their missing children. Their ministry is a powerful example of living faith expressed through service to others.
For Veronica and many other mothers, their Christian faith is not just a source of personal comfort; it is also the driving force behind their ongoing search for their children. Veronica’s role in organising and leading “Uniendo Esperanzas” (Uniting Hope), a support group for families with missing members, stems directly from her faith. This group offers both emotional support and practical assistance, guiding families through legal procedures and pressing authorities to take action.
Veronica’s story, and those of other mothers like her, raises significant questions about the Church’s role in addressing modern forms of suffering and injustice. While some churches and faith leaders have risen to the occasion, offering much-needed support to grieving families, others have not. The Christian response to such tragedies should be rooted in empathy, action, and an unwavering commitment to justice. As Bishop Javier Acero rightly notes, “Where the state is absent, the Church offers guidance.” However, this guidance must be more than just words; it must be a living expression of Christ’s love and compassion.
The stories of mothers like Veronica Rosas remind us that faith can carry us through even the most unimaginable pain. But they also serve as a call to action for the Church to be a true sanctuary for those who are suffering, ensuring that no one has to walk this difficult path alone. As Veronica herself says, “We live with such a profound pain that only God can help us endure it. If it wasn’t for that light, for that relief, I don’t think we would be able to still stand.” May the Church be that light, guiding these families through their darkest hours and helping them find the hope and strength they need to continue their search.
Please join us in praying for the following:
- That the families of missing children may feel God’s presence and comfort in their lives.
- That God guides and protects the authorities as they search for these missing children, giving them wisdom and strength against organised crime.
- That God brings peace and safety to the children who have been taken.
Source: The Associated Press
Takeaways from the AP’s report on Mexican mothers searching for their disappeared children
By María Teresa Hernández
