In recent days, the Mexican Ministry of the Interior (Segob) held a working meeting with 16 denominational leaders from the Evangelical Fellowship of Mexico (Conemex) to discuss key issues related to the current needs of religious associations in the country.
According to a press release issued by Conemex, the dialogue focused on simplifying bureaucratic procedures and addressing the social challenges faced by congregations in various regions of Mexico.
During the meeting, Clara Luz Flores Carrales, head of the Unit for Religious Affairs, Prevention, and Reconstruction of the Social Fabric, and Rocío Bárcena Molina, Undersecretary of Democratic Development, Social Participation, and Religious Affairs, emphasized the importance of collaborating with churches on initiatives aimed at strengthening the social fabric. Both officials highlighted the administrative challenges faced by religious associations and stressed the need for Christian churches to actively participate in the country’s appeasement processes.
According to a publication by the Alliance of Communicators of Mexico, the meeting marked the first official dialogue between President Claudia Sheinbaum's administration and evangelical leaders, establishing a precedent for future collaborations between the federal government and faith-based communities.
Among the topics discussed, Conemex representatives stressed the urgency of reducing bureaucratic hurdles that hinder congregational activities, particularly regarding registration and legal procedures. They also expressed interest in enhancing social work in communities impacted by violence and other systemic challenges.
Segob officials, in turn, encouraged evangelical leaders to take an active role in promoting peace and rebuilding the social fabric, emphasizing that churches hold significant influence within communities and can serve as bridges to sustainable solutions.
Clara Luz Flores underscored the value of such meetings in strengthening the relationship between government and religious institutions, stating, “Collaboration between churches and authorities is essential to building a more peaceful and equitable Mexico.”
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to maintaining open communication and collaborating on initiatives that benefit the most vulnerable communities.
This dialogue highlights the role of evangelical churches as agents of social change, demonstrating their capacity to address critical issues for the nation’s development and solidifying their position not only as religious entities but also as influential actors in the public sphere.
Originally published by Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily International's Spanish edition.
