Unrest in Ecuador

Ecuador has been experiencing violent protests for the last two weeks. The indigenous-led protests have rallied against the removal of government subsidies for fuel, and the subsequent increase in the cost of travel. The government recently rescinded the fuel price hike in response to ongoing protests during a meeting brokered by the United Nations and the Catholic Church. Bishop Silvio Cevallos of the United Evangelical Methodist Church in Ecuador has written to us about the situation:

 Unfortunately we have had 12 days of violent demonstrations as a result of the removal of  our fuel subsidy. This was going to lead to an increase in the cost of travel and the cost of living. The country has been in an acute social crisis with national unemployment that has caused the loss of millions of dollars due to road closures caused by the 14 indigenous groups protesting throughout the country. In addition, vandalism caused by anti-government groups has destroyed government buildings. Factories, businesses, warehouses, flower plantations and small businesses have been looted. It was unprecedented in terms of social chaos. In some churches, the lack of security meant that services had to be suspended until calm was restored.  In the city of Quito, thousands of indigenous people from all over Ecuador were hosted by the House of Culture and at Salesian universities. The Catholic National Polytechnic School and Central University hosted indigenous mothers with children, and our church contributed hygiene kits and food. We thank God that on Sunday, the Government met with indigenous leaders, members of the government and trade union representatives. They agreed to repeal the fuel increase and thus lower the price of fuel and of travel. The Government is currently working on a new decree to replace the previous one, although we do not yet know its contents. As Ecuadorians we ask God not to allow a strike again because it causes great losses. These protests have resulted in seven deaths, although we are aware that there are more.  There are people missing and more than 1300 people have been arrested in relation to the protests. We ask for your prayers that we may overcome this crisis and move on. Thank you very much for your concern.

 A prayer for Ecuador.

Prince of Peace, we ask that your peace would reign in Ecuador. We pray that you would work all things out for the good of the country and for all Ecuadorians. We pray for the Government, that God would give them wisdom to make wise, nation-building decisions, that benefit the people.  Romans 8:28

We pray that that you comfort all those who have lost loved ones as a result of the protests and be close to those who mourn.

We pray that the innocent that have been arrested will be freed and those who are not will be processed justly.

We pray that your presence in Ecuador will bring unity, faith, hope and love during these troubling times.

We ask that you would greatly bless the United Evangelical Methodist Church and continue to use it as a peace builder and a witness of your love and commitment to the Ecuadorian people.

 In Jesus’ mighty name we pray. Amen.