Two Pastors Murdered in Separate Attacks in Colombia
The Christian community in Colombia is mourning the devastating loss of two pastors, both tragically killed in separate incidents within less than two weeks. The killings, which have sent shockwaves across the country, underscore the dangers faced by religious leaders in regions plagued by violence and criminal activity.
On December 29, 2024, Pastor Marlon Lora and his family were targeted in a brutal attack in Aguachica, Cesar. The incident occurred at a local restaurant where gunmen opened fire on Pastor Lora, his wife Yorley Rincón, and their two children, Ángela and Santiago. While Ángela and both parents died at the scene, Santiago survived but tragically succumbed to his injuries two days later.
Authorities suspect the attack may be linked to Pastor Lora’s brother, who allegedly had ties to a criminal network. According to Colombian newspaper El País, the pastor’s brother was associated with a suspected drug trafficker known as “El Calvo,” who was killed just two days prior to the attack. Police are investigating whether this connection played a role in the fatal incident. A spokesperson stated, “The pastor’s relative may have links to a criminal organization in the area.”
Barely days after the Aguachica massacre, another tragic incident unfolded on January 8, 2025, when Pastor Iván Darío García González, 29, was fatally shot shortly after delivering a sermon at the Nuevo Renacer Christian Church. The attacker fired six times at the pastor, injuring a parishioner, Soldais Mendoza, in the process. Mendoza sustained an arm injury and is reportedly recovering.
Pastor García’s wife, Karen Niebles, revealed that he had been receiving threatening calls from private numbers. She shared, “He didn’t share the details to avoid worrying me, but I believe he was being extorted.” Investigations into these claims are ongoing. A witness and church member, Angela Mendoza, described Pastor García as “a man committed to his mission of guiding souls to goodness,” adding, “He gave us hope amidst difficulties.”
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The Evangelical Confederation of Colombia (CEDECOL) and other Christian organizations have strongly condemned these killings, describing them as severe violations of religious freedom. In a public statement, CEDECOL said, “These tragedies highlight the vulnerability of pastors and religious leaders in Colombia.” They urged authorities to swiftly identify those responsible and to implement measures that protect religious leaders from further violence.
CEDECOL’s statement also emphasized, “We call on the government to ensure the protection of those who dedicate their lives to serving their communities.”
These recent murders bring attention to the significant risks faced by religious leaders in Colombia, particularly in areas controlled by criminal groups. As the investigations proceed, the country’s Christian community mourns the loss of Pastor Marlon Lora and Pastor Iván Darío García González, while demanding justice and greater protection for those who serve in ministry roles.
The tragic deaths of these pastors not only underscore the precarious environment in which many religious leaders operate but also highlight the resilience and courage of those who remain committed to their faith and communities in the face of danger. For many, these pastors were beacons of hope—their loss leaves a profound void in their communities.
Content Credit| Igbakuma Rita Doom
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