Venetian in Mexico

Introduction / History

From 697 to 1797 there was a Venetian Republic. It was one of the first modern republics. When the Venetians defeated Genoa, it became the most powerful maritime power, especially from the 1400s-1500s. Their power extended to Croatian and Slovenia. Venetians were often great merchants ship owners who had tremendous power in international trade. Marco Polo was among them. They were finally forced to become part of Italy at the end of the 1700s. Italy became a nation state in the 1860s, and Venice was part of the new nation.
The 1800s was not a good time for the economy of Venice. Many needed to escape poverty, and Mexico offered a solution that would help both countries. Mexico needed more settlers who were Roman Catholic and knew how to farm. Thirty eight Venetian families migrated to Chipilo, a village in the state of Pueblo.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The great-great grandchildren of these Venetians are still in Mexico. Chipilo has Italian restaurants, delis and gelato shops. People there speak Italian and Venetian as well as Spanish. Some are conflicted when Italy and Mexico play an important football/soccer match. Some work in the furniture business.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Venetians identify as Roman Catholics. Like many other European Catholics, the Venetians are often secular in their worldview. However, they will be married and buried by the Roman Catholic Church.

What Are Their Needs?

Venetians need to put all their faith in the person, Jesus Christ, rather than a religious institution.

Prayer Points

Pray for Venetians to put all their faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Venetian disciples to make more disciples.
Pray for the Lord to send the wind of his Holy Spirit to purify the Roman Catholic Church in Italy and Mexico.

Text Source:   Joshua Project