Within the state of Oaxaca in southern Mexico, among the poorest and most marginalized are those in prison. As a general rule, half of those in prison are innocent but imprisoned because they did not have the educational or financial means to obtain adequate legal assistance. Prison conditions are deplorable, drug trafficking is prevalent, and corruption permeates every area of prison life. Minist
ry components:
• Leadership development
Through their participation in the Servants’ Council, inmates are trained to serve their community.
• Weekly worship
Inmates are trained as worship leaders and musicians and lead a worshipping Christian community.
• Christian education
Bible studies, catechism classes, and retreats prepare inmates and their children to receive the sacraments. A Christian library provides reading materials.
• Legal Advice and Accompaniment
Inmates are provided with one-on-one legal consultations and the tools to defend themselves.
• Cultural Promotion
Inmates are encouraged to express themselves artistically, promoting community values.
• Health Promotion
Workshops are held on disease prevention and treatment. Inmates learn to prepare herbal medicines.
• Craft Promotion
Inmates' crafts are marketed, assuring that more of the proceeds return to the artisans.
• Programs for Children
Inmates’ children are provided with opportunities for growth in spite of their difficult environment. The Oaxaca Prison Ministry in Tehuantepec is not sponsored by any church but relies solely on the support of people like you. You can mail a check to the foundation created to support the ministry:
The Tequio Foundation
P.O. Box 31574
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
IRS ID #94-3351830
Paul Riek, Executive Director
Aurelia Sanchez, Health Promoter
Gabriela Pacheco, Program Coordinador
Paul and his wife Aurelia are independent lay missionaries who began the Oaxaca Prison Ministry in Tehuantepec in 1999. Paul’s participation in the Sanctuary Movement for Central American refugees led him to respond to God’s call to work among the Latin American poor. Aurelia is Zapotec Indian, born in the sierra of Oaxaca. She is an herbal medicine specialist. Gabriela is a Tehuantepec native, a mother and grandmother. Paul Riek, Director
Oaxaca Prison Ministry
409 NE San Rafael St Apt 313
Portland, OR 97212
Phone: 503-926-4854
E-mail: [email protected]
