The Maria Paz neighborhood is one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Bogotá, Colombia. The area is rife with crime, homelessness, prostitution, and drug use. It’s a known hot spot for human trafficking.
In the midst of this dangerous area, Pastor Jorge, his wife, and his daughter have created a safe space for everyone called Mi Casa Red de Iglesias.
“This is the Lord’s calling,” Pastor Jorge says. “We open our doors to these vulnerable people. We provide food, bathrooms, haircuts, and shoe services. But most importantly, through these services, we can share the Word of God with many people.”
Many in this area have emigrated from Venezuela to escape the economic and political crises in the country. Since they leave their homes with no money or jobs, they are forced to live in dangerous areas such as Maria Paz.
Pastor Jorge is a Bible League-trained church planter and has started Project Philip Bible studies in this neighborhood. He’s seen God do amazing things. One woman was working as a prostitute when she began meeting with Pastor Jorge and studying the Word of God. She got a formal job, was reunited with her two daughters, and now is serving at a local church.
The COVID-19 pandemic is still affecting Pastor Jorge’s ministry, but it didn’t stop him from sharing the Gospel. “We currently have to bring the Word of God to the streets and help people with no way to survive,” he says. “The situation is hard to face. Fortunately, we have many volunteers at church who have trained with all the Bible League studies, so they are ready to spread the message in whatever circumstance.”
Pastor Jorge expresses sincere gratitude to Bible League supporters who make his ministry possible. “You are truly transforming lives through these materials,” he says. “I want you to raise a prayer to keep seeing lives changed in Maria Paz, because we did not come to be served, but to serve.”
