In the last few weeks, field workers in Colombia have been inundated with reports of paramilitary groups closing churches throughout northern Colombia in the states of Antioquia, Bolívar, Chocó and Córdova. They began compiling a list, which has grown to 60 churches.
Many of these churches and the homes of pastors were tagged with the initials of the Gaitanista Self-Defence Forces of Colombia (AGC) paramilitary group, which is Colombia’s largest drug-trafficking organisation. Many of the congregations also received official letters from the AGC threatening them and directing them to close. Other pastors were kept from holding church services or from visiting the homes of parishioners.
According to a field worker in Colombia, “It appears that the graffiti marks on churches or pastoral homes is about the AGC marking their territory. There are several armed groups fighting for control in the region, including FARC dissidents and a Mexican drug cartel.”
Source: The Voice of the Martyrs USA
- Pray for the believers living under intense stress in this region. May they know the strengthening presence of God.
- Ask God for wisdom for pastors and church leaders as they make plans and decisions. Pray for their protection.
- Pray there will be opportunities for Christians to continue to meet. Pray they will encourage one another and intercede for the members of paramilitary groups.
Post your prayer in the comments below.
Lord we commit these churches to you. Lord lead all the pastors and flock to be able to continue to meet to share and teach your gospel. We pray for your protection on these pastors and their flock. Lord we pray those in the paramilitary have a deep revelation of who you are, and come to you in repentance and that they are also saved. Lord use this situation for your Glory. That what satan has meant for evil, you turn around for good. In your mighty name we pray.
Our Father, as we hear of this Colombian persecution and harassment, your word says, “22 Lord, you have seen this; do not be silent. Do not be far from me, Lord. 23 Awake, and rise to my defense! Contend for me, my God and Lord. 24 Vindicate me in your righteousness, Lord my God; do not let them gloat over me. 25 Do not let them think, “Aha, just what we wanted!” or say, “We have swallowed him up.” We praise you that your church cannot be destroyed completely by the enemy and that the Lord Jesus Christ is more powerful than he and that the Gospel continues to progress in spite of severe opposition (2 Thessalonians 3:1-5). Have mercy on your people enduring such immense stress and may those who bring them such trouble come to see the light of the glory of Jesus coming to faith and repentance. Give the Pastors and church elders wisdom and patience in decision making and strengthen the faith of your people. Have mercy O Lord, have mercy!