Presbyterian mission in Colombia brings many to faith in Christ By Eddie Soto Worldwide Ministries Division Friday, May 21, 1999 I recently returned from a trip to Colombia, South America with a two-day stop in Caracas, Venezuela. While in Colombia, I visited the city of Barranquilla where together with other colleagues of Louisville and some pastors from our Presbyterian Church here in the United States we met with the leadership of the Presbyterian Church of Colombia. It was truly impressive to hear of the plans being made for a Reformed University in that country and of how the church is growing and having an influence upon Colombian society. I felt very proud of our sisters and brothers in Colombia as they continue their holistic ministry in a land where violence has taken a toll among many of its people. But I was most impressed with what is occurring in the northwest part of the country, Uraba. It is here where violence has recently been most cruel and where much human suffering has been felt. Uraba is close to the Panamanian border, a very rich part of Colombia. It has very fertile soil. The planting of bananas, plantains and other vegetables and fruits is a livelihood for many of its peoples. It is also a rich fishing area and a beautiful part of the country. A struggle between factions Sad to say, because of a number of political, financial and personal interests it has been bathed with blood and many have suffered displacement as a result. There is a struggle between different factions (especially guerrillas and paramilitary forces) to see who can dominate this area. As a result, the people caught in these struggles have had to pay with their lives. Literally thousands have been driven from their lands and have lost all they have ever worked hard for. No opposition is allowed and any resistance is quickly shattered by violent death. Any sympathy either way is also demolished. One Presbyterian pastor even was martyred because he helped a wounded person, which was interpreted as helping the enemy. This situation has brought many to Uraba’s cities looking for help and comfort. Presbyterian churches displaced As a result, 17 Presbyterian churches of the region have also suffered displacement. The Presbyterian churches of the small cities of Uraba have received these and many other people and are presently ministering to their holistic needs. This has included spiritual as well as physical help to these suffering multitudes. Though the Presbyterian churches are made up of humble and poor people, by God’s grace and the help of the Holy Spirit they have been able to minister to those who have been displaced and many wonderful things have resulted. Strong evangelical faith Because of their strong evangelical faith, the Presbyterian churches of Uraba have shared the Gospel with many and as a result many have come to a personal encounter with Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. This has also resulted in great church growth among Presbyterians. As believers of the churches have shared their moderate resources they have been able to feed the hungry and provide medical help for those who have been hit hard with this crisis. With help from the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Program of our denomination they have been able to purchase houses that receive the displaced until they can help them settle into their own homes and get jobs for the people. I was truly amazed at how, with so little, so much was done to help people. Such help has also created an awareness among believers to speak to local government agencies to help deal with the crisis and to make changes in legislation in order to help the poor in their misery and flight from violence. Many positive changes are beginning to be seen and felt in the area. Reliving the New Testament church As I reflect upon my time in Uraba I truly believe I was reliving the New Testament church of the book of Acts where the Gospel was being shared through word and deed and where all shared out of love to meet the needs of others. I was especially humbled since I was asked to teach a course to some 60 Presbyterian church leaders on the theme, “The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit from a Reformed Perspective.” I think I learned more of the Holy Spirit during those days than they did from me. It was one of the most marvelous experiences I have ever had as a Christian! I ask that you please continue to pray for the sisters and brothers in Christ of Uraba, Columbia. And if the Holy Spirit should move you to help support the work of the Presbyterian church in this region of God’s world, please do contact me. I will be more than happy to let you know how you can do so. God richly bless you! Rev. Eriberto (Eddie) Soto is South American Coordinator in the Worldwide Ministries Division of the PCUSA.

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