Juan Lopez, an anti-mining activist in Honduras. Photo credit: Radio Progreso
And Pilate said to them, “Why? What evil has he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Crucify him.” So Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.
We adore you, O Christ, and we praise you,
because by your Holy Cross you have redeemed the world.
Challenging injustice can be costly today, just as it was for Jesus.
On 14 September 2024, Honduran community leader and activist Juan Lopez was shot dead by several men as he travelled home from church. For over a decade he had been working to protect the Guapinol river from further contamination by a giant mining project.
The gospel is a disruptive force; it points toward a kingdom of justice and peace that necessarily unsettles the status quo. While Jesus’ message is hope for the vulnerable and marginalised, it is a provocation to those who hold onto oppressive systems.
As followers of Christ, we are entrusted with continuing his mission of liberation and healing. We pray for the strength to live the radical way of the gospel and to speak courageously for what is right, even when it is difficult.
Prayer
Christ Jesus,
you remained faithful,
in the face of injustice and violence.
Give us the courage and commitment
to live with generosity and justice,
to speak out for peace and love
and stand in solidarity with our neighbours.
Amen.
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