In less than two weeks, Colombia has witnessed the shocking murders of two Christian pastors, shaking the nation’s religious community. On Dec. 29, the Lora Rincón pastoral family was killed in Aguachica, Cesar, in a targeted shooting. Days later, on Jan. 8, Pastor Iván Darío García González was gunned down after preaching at the Nuevo Renacer Christian Church, leaving one parishioner injured.
Dec. 29: A Family Massacred in Aguachica
The first attack occurred at a restaurant in Aguachica, where armed assailants opened fire on Pastor Marlon Lora, his wife Yorley Rincón, and their children, Ángela and Santiago. Although Santiago initially survived, he died two days later from his injuries. Authorities believe the attack may have been retaliation related to the pastor’s brother, who allegedly had ties to a criminal network.
Colombian newspaper El País reported that the pastor’s brother was associated with alias “El Calvo,” a suspected drug trafficker killed two days before the shooting. Police are investigating whether these events are connected, saying, “The pastor’s relative may have links to a criminal organization in the area.”
Jan. 8: Pastor Killed After Church Service
Just days later, on Jan. 8, Pastor Iván Darío García, 29, was ambushed and shot six times by a gunman. The attack also injured parishioner Soldais Mendoza, who sustained an arm injury but is now recovering.
According to local media outlet Pulzo, García’s wife, Karen Niebles, revealed her husband had been receiving threatening calls. “They came from private numbers. He never wanted to share details so as not to worry me, but I believe he was being extorted,” she said. Authorities are investigating these claims, though no official conclusions have been drawn.
Ángela Mendoza, a witness and church member, described García as “a man committed to his mission of guiding souls to goodness.” She added, “He gave us hope amidst difficulties.”
Outrage and Call for Justice
The murders have drawn condemnation from Christian organizations, including the Evangelical Confederation of Colombia (CEDECOL), which denounced the attacks as severe violations of religious freedom. CEDECOL urged authorities to act swiftly to identify those responsible and prevent further violence against religious leaders.
“These tragedies highlight the vulnerability of pastors and religious leaders in Colombia,” CEDECOL said in a statement. “We call on the government to ensure the protection of those who dedicate their lives to serving their communities.”
The recent murders underscore the dangers faced by religious leaders in Colombia, particularly in regions where criminal networks hold sway. As investigations continue, Colombia’s Christian community mourns the loss of these leaders while calling for justice and stronger measures to protect the safety of those serving in ministry.
Originally published by Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily International's Spanish edition.
