In areas of Colombia where there is a presence of illegal armed and criminal groups, the threat to life for religious leaders is so high that even holding an extended time of prayer can be incredibly dangerous. To preach peace – or even praying out loud for an end to the violence – can be to risk everything.
One pastor from Aguachica was crying as he told us that they feel powerless and fearful for their families: ‘We go into the streets with fear… Please do not leave us alone; today, every word of support means so much.’
Find out more at csw.org.uk/colombia
Sunday 13 July
Religious leaders are often in grave danger because of the influence they hold in their communities. Pray that the Colombian government would recognise this and would reinstate protections for those in the religious sector.
Monday 14 July
Ask God to be a mighty shield around pastors in Colombia – especially those who have received death threats in Aguachica. Many have not spoken publicly or filed complaints out of fear. Some told us they do not know what to do, whether to quit or flee, while feeling the responsibility of looking after their congregations.
Tuesday 15 July
Call on the Lord to comfort, protect and provide for Pastor Karen Nierles and her children. Her husband, Iván Garcia, was murdered in January for refusing to store weapons in their church on behalf of an illegal armed group.
Wednesday 16 July
To add to the trauma for their loved ones, lies were spread about both pastors Marlon Lora and Iván Garcia after they were killed, falsely claiming that they were involved with illegal armed groups. Pray that the truth would shine ever brighter. Give thanks for their legacy of service to their communities.
Thursday 17 July
Violence in the Catatumbo region (along the border with Venezuela) has led to the displacement of over 50,000 people and dozens of deaths. Pray for an end to the violence between warring guerilla groups, the FARC and the ELN. Ask for wisdom for priests and pastors working in the midst of this very dangerous context.
Friday 18 July
The Kogui are an indigenous people group in the mountains of northern Colombia. Pray for a group of Kogui who have been forcibly displaced from their community in waves since an initial group became Christians over two decades ago.
Saturday 19 July
Pray today for Kogui Christian young people who have been blocked from attending university. CSW has been advocating on their behalf with the Colombian government for them to have this right restored. Ask God to soften the hearts of those in authority so that they would be moved to action.