A surprise eviction occurred last Friday at the Anna Sanders Theological Seminary, a longstanding institution affiliated with the Assemblies of God in Mexico. Authorities, including the National Guard, Attorney General’s Office (FGR), and Criminal Investigation Agency (AIC), stormed the premises without prior notice. The operation involved removing staff, documents, and furniture, and placing closure seals on multiple affiliated properties.
Multiple Christian Institutions Affected
The seminary, along with the “Jesus Christ Light to the Nations” Church, regional Assemblies of God offices, and the Kerygma Christian bookstore, was abruptly shut down. Security cameras were dismantled, and staff were barred from recovering belongings. The seminary, which has trained pastors for over five decades, spans more than 10,000 square meters near Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies.
Historic Preservation Cited as Legal Justification
Authorities claim the eviction stemmed from concerns over a deteriorating historic building on the property. The old San Lázaro church, allegedly protected by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), was previously inspected and found damaged. INAH filed a lawsuit in March, accusing the church of harming a historic monument. The Assemblies of God argues they legally own the site and that prior inspections had not led to such drastic action.
Supporters Decry Raid as Aggressive and Unjustified
Church leaders and supporters condemned the raid’s intensity. “We were surrounded like criminals,” said a seminary teacher. Staff voiced distress over lost educational materials and religious books. Seminary deputy director Miguel Ángel Solís Osorno urged the faithful to pray and called for a peaceful resolution. He confirmed legal appeals are underway and a negotiation hearing is set for August 26.
Critics Support Legal Enforcement Over Cultural Heritage
Some critics defend the government’s actions, citing the importance of protecting national heritage. They argue that preservation laws must be enforced, even when religious institutions are involved. However, they acknowledge the need for transparent and proportionate legal processes to avoid violating civil liberties.
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Mexico Authorities Seizes Property and Evicts Staff at Assemblies of God Seminary
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