“He will cover you with his pinions,
    and under his wings you will find refuge;
    his faithfulness is a shield and defense.”

Psalm 91:4

Beloved brothers and sisters

The council of elders (Consejo de Ancianos) of Iglesia Hermanos Menonitas de Colombia calls on the global Anabaptist Mennonite family to support them in prayer.

In mid-May, approximately 300 people took shelter in the village of La Toma, Suarez Cauca, Colombia. These people abandoned their farms and animals as a result of the crossfire between illegal groups and the Army.

The Mennonite Brethren congregation (La Samaritana) located in La Toma welcomed them in the church building with food, mattresses and messages of encouragement.

“It is our desire that the global Anabaptist community learn about and support us in prayer for the difficult situation of the people of northern Cauca, Colombia,” write church leaders from Colombia.

“We ask for your prayerful support for the end of this armed conflict, that the families may return to their homes in peace and security, and for God's blessing on the congregation in La Toma, which is manifesting God's mercy to those who need it so much.”

“We also thank God for the prompt response of the Mennonite Central Committee in sending support to help with the maintenance of the people in refuge in La Toma.”

Pray for the farming families who fear for their livelihoods and their lives. May they be able to safely return to their land.

Pray for the peace processes that continue to struggle to take root in all corners of Colombian society. May patience and nonviolence prevail.

Pray for the people of La Samaritana. May they receive an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, so they can act with courage and love to transform violence into justice, truthtelling and shalom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
In the name of Jesus, Prince of Peace, amen.

Henk Stenvers, president, Mennonite World Conference