Honduras Police Combat Crime with Prayer

Gang members recently took the life of a pastor in northern Honduras for not paying what they call a "protection tax."

Maria Sevilla, a mother of three, co-pastored the church with her husband near the city of San Pedro Sula. She was stabbed to death in their home.

The country's National Police have been less than successful in the battle against gang violence. Honduras' new police director recently appealed to the fathers to keep their children out of gangs by getting more involved in their lives.

"Let's have that father who's a protector of the family and not just a materialistic father who gives or doesn't give things," National Police Director General Ramon Sabillon said. "Let's have the support of society. The Church is important."

Sabillon invited evangelical pastors to his national headquarters to pray for the nation's police officers. The session ended with a prayer of commitment to uphold law and order and pursue justice.

"Prayer is a great force, a great energy for this National Police force," Sabillon said. "It revitalizes us, comforts us, and motivates us to fight for this society, for these people who deserve a quality life."

Honduras police face a struggle every time they put on a uniform, and many believe that prayer can change the tide in their fight against crime.