More than 30 years ago, local missionaries planted a church in a community near where two rivers meet, a community set squarely in the center of the natural beauty of the Colombian countryside. But over time, the region fell into poverty and was taken over by guerilla groups and other armed organizations. The missionary who led the church began to face heavy persecution and threats to his safety. Eventually, the ministry made the difficult decision to close the church and pull the worker from the area for his own safety.

Years passed. Hope seemed lost here as the area became virtually inaccessible to the gospel. But what missionaries didn’t know was that a lone believer remained faithful even as the church closed its doors. And last year, as missionaries began to feel God calling them to reestablish the church there, that believer would prove to be a light that helped jumpstart a revival.

Connecting Through Christ

The ministry appointed a missionary named Daniel to the task of rebuilding the church. He was humble, kind, and a proven leader. Together with his wife and children, Daniel moved to the region ready to begin building bridges with his new neighbors.

Because he was also a mechanic, Daniel almost immediately became an indispensable part of the community. He began building relationships by repairing engines, tools, and agricultural equipment. “Many could not pay with money,” the ministry leader said. “But they offered him food and produce, creating bonds of trust and gratitude.”

“Men and women who previously practiced witchcraft or worked for armed groups have left those paths to live in peace, cultivate the land, and serve God.”

For six months, Daniel did this work. But alongside this, he also began sharing the gospel. Over time, that lone believer who had remained steadfast for decades became one of 20 believers. “Men and women who previously practiced witchcraft or worked for armed groups have left those paths to live in peace, cultivate the land, and serve God,” the ministry leader said.

A Beautiful Renewal

Late last year, the ministry organized an evangelism campaign that included discipleship workshops and worship services. The community joined together to participate in the event—including some people affiliated with armed groups—and all were spiritually fed. During the campaign, five families gave their lives to Christ.

“To God be all the glory.”

Now, the church has been firmly reestablished, and God continues to restore what once was lost. “After years of challenges, limitations, and adverse conditions, seeing the community gathered again to hear the message of hope confirms that the Lord is opening paths where progress once seemed impossible,” the ministry leader said. “This evangelism campaign not only marked a new beginning for the church here, but it also reaffirmed our commitment to remote communities that have been isolated for years. To God be all the glory.”

“We trust that what began on the banks of the river will be just the beginning of an even greater work throughout the region.”

Pray for the missionaries here and the community they serve. The Holy Spirit is moving, and lives are changing. “We move forward in faith,” the ministry leader said. “We trust that what began on the banks of the river will be just the beginning of an even greater work throughout the region.”

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