Colombia (Conflict Areas)

Key Facts:
Leader: President Alvaro Uribe
Population: 43.6 million (95% Christian)
Majority Religion: Roman Catholicism
Type of Government: Republic

Fifty years of vicious civil war fuelled by money from drugs and kidnapping, with left-wing rebels and right-wing paramilitary groups taking on the government, have seen pastors killed and churches closed.

Pastors are targeted because of their influence in local communities, often refusing to be coerced by force, and speaking out against violence and corruption.

Many members of armed groups have turned to Christ and abandoned their former allegiance.

Prayer

• Remember the families of those murdered, and those who have been forced to move for their own safety. Pray that there will be an end to violence
• Pray for children whose lives have been torn apart and who have been helped to start school
• Praise God for the growth of the Church and the courage of His people.