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CHIAPAS, MEXICO - Standing in a circle, in a moment of silence, we lit each other's candle in turn, slowly lighting up the space between us. After the silence was broken, we wanted to mourn and to celebrate at the same time.

After weeks of discernment and conversations with individuals and organizations, CPT Mexico has decided to put the Chiapas project on hold for three months, with a re-evaluation for a final closure at the end of that period. We do this with much celebration because of the changes that have occurred within the Municipality of Chenalho since CPT first arrived in May 1998.

The initial invitation to CPT from the Abejas and the Diocese came in a time of fear and desperation for those living within Chenalho, particularly those who were not affiliated with the PRI ruling party. When CPT entered Chiapas, the increasing domination of the Mexican army in the region and threats from paramilitary forces had forced over 10, 000 people to flee their villages.

Now, as we approach the fourth anniversary since the massacre in Acteal, there are no longer checkpoints in Chenalho, and several military bases have closed. In addition, most of the displaced Abejas families have returned to their original communities without violence. These positive changes have been encouraging to CPT, a reminder of the power of the continued nonviolent resistance here, and have contributed greatly to our decision to withdraw.

As we, the Chiapas team, and the Mesa Directiva of the Abejas, were standing in our candlelit circle, we shared in that moment the realization that we have done good work together, and that there will always be a connection to each other as we all strive for peace.

CPT Mexico fully recognizes that we are bringing closure to this project without seeing justice and without seeing peace in all of Chiapas. For this reason that we would like to invite you to join us in prayer, by candle light, on the evening of December 22. Please pray, wherever you find yourself that night, for those who are still experiencing threats or violence in Chiapas, and for those who feel the economic oppression more strongly now that the guns are lifted. Please also pray for the Abejas and other organizations as they work toward a more just future in their communities.