PRAY FOR COLOMBIA
– For Christians living in areas controlled by armed criminal groups.
– For the children of Christian families to have courage despite threats.
– For gangs to see the love Christians have for their enemies and turn to God.
WORLD WATCH LIST
Colombia
#22Christians in Colombia face intimidation and assault from criminal groups.
bottom"For those people who are being persecuted, I would tell them not to leave their faith. If they are still here, it's because God has a purpose for them.”
– Valentina lives at a safe home for children because of the risk of persecution at home.
Country
Profile
- Region
- Latin America
- Sources of persecution
- Organised Corruption and Crime
- Population
- 51,513,000
- Christian population
- 49,002,000
- Religions
- Christianity
- Leader
- President Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego
- Score
- 71
What’s Life Like For Christians?
Guerrilla groups and gangs often see the church as a threat to their power and stability, particularly when gang members become Christians or church leaders speak out against violence and corruption.
This leads to church leaders being threatened, harassed, and even killed, not to mention the mobility restrictions imposed by illegal means. Gang leaders target the children of Christian families, trying to recruit or abduct them to undermine the church.
What Has Changed This Year?
Colombia has risen eight places on the World Watch List, largely because of the increase in violence, including murders. Pressure has also increased, due to criminal gangs targeting Christians. In Colombian society in general, intolerance of religion has increased.
