men and women have answered God’ s call to go where others were unwilling. They have shown the love of Jesus to people whom many believe are beyond hope— individuals whom few expect to experience real transformation, yet who can become people who bring genuine value to their families and communities.
Although no one plans to go to prison, God encounters people there. Through our ministry in Colombia’ s prisons, those who are lost and hopeless begin a new journey with Jesus Christ. Terrorists, paid assassins, and drug dealers have responded to the Gospel and accepted Christ. The murder rate has dropped significantly; forgiveness has replaced retribution; and hope has replaced despair.
As we faithfully preach the Gospel to prisoners, remarkable things happen. They surrender their lives to Christ and turn away from violence. Many now also share their faith with fellow inmates. Our mission has always been clear: to
evangelize in order to disciple, and to disciple in order to develop leaders who multiply and plant churches within prisons. Luis’ life is part of that story.
When he was released, he knew he could not walk alone outside the prison walls; he needed continued support. For this reason, he sought help from the Amanecer( New Dawn) program, which provides support to former prisoners and equips them with tools for better social and family reintegration.
Today, Luis serves on our team and continues to enter prisons to freely give what he freely received. Colombia has about 102,000 prisoners who need to hear about the love of Jesus, the love that brings true freedom. Would you take a moment to pray for this ministry?
photos, page 14-15: Once one of the most violent prisons on Earth, Bellavista now multiplies disciples of Christ.
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