Huarijio in Mexico

Introduction / History

Huarijios have a number of names, most prominent is Guarijio. They live in Mexico’s northern states of Sonora and Chihuahua. The dual location has its roots in a rebellion against Spanish Jesuit work in the 1620s. They were attacked by the Spanish military and fled to those two states that are now part of northern Mexico. They live near the Tarahumara tribe.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Huarijios live in a secluded part of Mexico where it tends to be dry. They grow corn, beans, and squash, which they supplement by gathering wild herbs. Most families also raise chickens. Their seclusion means their villages can only be reached on foot or on horseback.

They love festivals; these bring the community together socially to celebrate planting and harvesting their crops. They celebrate with music, dancing, firecrackers, and eating tasty food.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Almost all Huarijios are Roman Catholic, but they blend Catholic doctrines with those of their indigenous ancestors. In practical terms, that means that their faith is not entirely built on Jesus Christ and his teachings.

What Are Their Needs?

With Huarijio villages being so hard to reach, there is difficulty getting goods to market. This also hampers them from getting emergency medical care. They also need better educational opportunities. Without advanced education, they cannot rise above subsistence farming.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully in Huarijio churches, drawing them to put all their faith in Jesus Christ and his finished work on the cross.
Pray for the Lord to do miracles among them and show them his power and goodness.
Pray that soon Huarijios will join the worldwide effort to take Christ to every nation.

Text Source:   Joshua Project