Sunday 24 August

Many religious leaders in Colombia are working in conflict zones, under pressure from illegal armed and criminal groups. If they refuse to meet their demands, such as storing weapons or illegal drugs in their churches, the cost is high. Pray that the Lord would protect and sustain them, that they would be able to serve their communities in peace.

Monday 25 August

In April, eight people were summoned to a meeting by an illegal armed group and never returned. Seven of them were church leaders. When their family sought them out, they were told to ‘consider the case closed’. On 1 July, their bodies were found in a mass grave. We remember them: Isaíd Gómez, Maribel Silva, Carlos Valero, James Caicedo, Maryuri Hernández, Nixon Peñalosa, Jesús Valero and Oscar García. Ask the Holy Spirit to comfort their families.

Tuesday 26 August

The Colombian government removed religious leaders from their list of categories of vulnerable individuals in 2023, despite the situation remaining dangerous. Ask God to reverse this decision so that religious leaders can access protection programmes once again.

Wednesday 27 August

Pray for understanding, reconciliation and healing within indigenous communities. Those who have converted away from traditional religious beliefs may be arbitrarily detained, physically punished, excluded from certain benefits (including university), or forcibly displaced.

Thursday 28 August

Illegal armed and criminal groups in Colombia aggressively recruit young people, often by force, and threaten anyone who provides support for those who resist. Pray for the families, religious leaders and communities of these young people – for safety and wisdom to protect them.

Friday 29 August

Our training workshops in Colombia have been a powerful tool for equipping human rights defenders, indigenous groups, church leaders and others. For example, we taught people how to recognise when their rights have been violated, and how to tell their story to government officials. In this way, those who have sometimes been perceived as ‘voiceless’ are able to speak for themselves. Praise God!

Saturday 30 August

‘The LORD will keep you from all harm – he will watch over your life.’ (Psalm 121:7) Lord God, would you preserve your people in Colombia, and help all who are suffering because of their beliefs. Guard those living and working amid the ongoing conflict, and bring them peace. Amen.

Más información en csw.org.uk/Colombia

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