Arroyo Grande, Durango, Mexico

Arroyo Grande and its surrounding quaint towns are located in the midst of beautiful lush mountains. It is full of trees, vegetation, water, animals, and rivers. These surrounding towns have been slowly building across these high mountains and are remotely visited due to its location with rough terrain. While people live in the area with scarcity, they are able to plant and eat from its harvest for survival. The gospel of Jesus Christ has reached these regions but it is not well known. Many people have not heard of the gospel. The Catholic Church has not reached these parts of Mexico. As a result, many people do not know who God is nor heard of the good news gospel. There are a few local pastors who have established churches and are located far apart from each other yet they make an effort to stay connected. Our mission is to help these pastors and their congregations spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, provide support, and encouragement as they endeavor in loving their local people in their towns with the gospel of peace.

Durango is a state located in the north-central region of Mexico. Its capital city, also called Durango, is a historically rich destination known for its rugged terrain, which includes the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range, expansive deserts, and canyons. Durango is one of the oldest settlements in Mexico, founded in 1563. The state’s economy mainly relies on mining, agriculture, and tourism.

The issue of drug lords and drug trafficking is linked to this area and is a complex and multifaceted problem affecting many countries worldwide, including parts of Mexico. The drug trade is often linked to organized crime, corruption, and violence and can significantly impact the safety and well-being of local communities. In Mexico, drug lords have controlled the people through fear, intimidation, and bribery. They often operate in areas where the government has little presence or where law enforcement agencies are weak or corrupt. Drug lords may offer protection to local communities in exchange for their loyalty.

In these parts of Durango, the people help grow and process different types of crops including the harvesting of poppy seeds.

As these small towns grow, the way to get there one has to travel by vans or trucks through a very rocky river when it’s low current season and/or take a small commuter plane as they are available. Most of the roads are dirt roads and those which are paved need much repair. The people there are very welcoming and loving. Only those whom the pastors know are welcomed in the region and are respected to preach the gospel. This “open” door did not come easy to the local pastor whom M4M has come to connect with. Understandably, sometimes missionaries do not want to travel to this region of Mexico. But still, M4M desires to bring the good news of Jesus Christ to this area. We believe that Jesus is the solution to all problems life brings, even when the mountains seem impossible to move.