Days after cartel-related violence broke out across Mexico, the Mexico Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has invited Latter-day Saints to fast and pray this Sunday for peace and social harmony in the country.
Elder Moisés Villanueva, Elder Jose L. Alonso and Elder Brik V. Eyre asked Church members to pray for spiritual strength to follow Jesus Christ, whose teachings provide comfort and hope, even in times of uncertainty.
Sharing the words of the Savior Jesus Christ to his disciples, they wrote: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
On Sunday the Mexican government killed drug lord Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” who created and led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
Following his death, a surge of violence broke out in 20 Mexican states almost immediately. Perpetrators set fires in local businesses and blocked roads with burning vehicles.
More than 70 people were killed, The Associated Press reported.
In their message, the Mexico Area Presidency emphasized that true peace comes through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and through consistently living his gospel, according to a release on ChurchofJesusChrist.org.
The leaders, all General Authority Seventies living in Mexico, also encouraged families to live the gospel in their homes with dedication and faith. They said doing so can help strengthen daily conduct and bring lasting peace.
The Area Presidency referenced the teachings of President Dallin H. Oaks, who said, “War and conflict are the result of wickedness. Peace is the product of righteousness. The blessings of the gospel are universal, and so is the formula for peace: keep the commandments of God.”