How are Christians persecuted in Colombia?
- Christians who speak out against the criminal gangs that operate in many regions of Colombia can face extortion, violence and even murder. “Any word perceived as criticism for these groups puts the entire congregation at risk,” explains Pastor Simeón*, a church leader in one of these regions.
- In the past year, several church leaders have disappeared, some of whom were later found dead. Several leaders have been forced to flee their homes.
- Christians living in indigenous areas can be targeted for threats, discrimination, legal complaints and imprisonment.
- Given these dangers, some believers choose to stay under the radar.
“There are communities where believers are confined by the conflict. That is where we must go.”
Pastor Siméon
- Despite the challenges, many are determined to continue serving the Lord. Pastor Simeón shares, “There are communities where believers are confined by the conflict, where violence keeps them from even leaving their homes, and they’re enduring hunger. That is where we must go.”
Why are Christians persecuted in Colombia?
- Many regions in Colombia are riddled with criminality – and that can make life very dangerous for Christians, especially church leaders, who are involved in activities that threaten the influence of gangs and cartels. This could be helping former gang members rehabilitate, stopping young people from recruitment to gangs, or engaging in humanitarian work.
“For the traditional leaders, being a Christian means being brainwashed.”
Joel, an indigenous believer
- Christians from indigenous communities are faced with accusations that they’ve betrayed local traditions by choosing to follow Jesus. Joel*, a believer from an indigenous background, explains, “For the traditional leaders, being a Christian means being brainwashed.”
Who is particularly vulnerable in Colombia?
- Whilst Christians from all denominations can face opposition for their faith in Colombia, those from Baptist and Pentecostal churches are particularly vulnerable to persecution from criminal groups.
- Those who convert to Christianity – especially gang members and people from an indigenous background – can also be particularly at risk.
What has changed in Colombia in the past year?
- Colombia has dropped a place on the World Watch List, with the situation facing Christians remaining largely unchanged.
- There is continuing danger for Christians living in places where criminality is pervasive.
- In July 2025, the bodies of seven Christians were found buried in a mass grave in Guaviare. They were leaders of two evangelical denominations and were known for their good witness within the community.
- The previous month, 24 coordinated terrorist attacks devastated local communities in Cauca and Valle de Cauca, killing seven people. Whilst Christians don’t appear to have been targeted, the attacks have only added to the fear already felt by many local believers.
How can I help Christians in Colombia?
Please keep praying for your brothers and sisters in Colombia. Your gifts and prayers make an enormous difference to those following Jesus no matter the cost.
Open Doors supports our persecuted family in Colombia through various initiatives. These include trauma care, legal advice, education support, emergency aid and Biblical training.
*Names changed for security reasons
God of all comfort, surround those affected by persecution in Colombia with Your unfailing peace. Give them strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. Continue to embolden them amidst opposition, and protect them from harm. Help Your children to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16), and through their shining and persevering witness, draw people to Jesus and transform communities. And bring peace to conflict-ridden regions, we pray. Amen.
