The Problem

Sofia’s story

Sofia’s Mum and Dad were leaders of a church in Columbia. However, some men didn’t want them to talk about Jesus. And one day these men came to their village.

Sofia had gone to a neighbour’s house. She heard gunshots. She was frightened and ran home. Her Mum and Dad had been shot. Sofia was just nine years old. Her little sister was two and her baby brother just two months old.

After this Sofia moved into a Children’s Home run by Open Doors. They look after her now. She has everything she needs: school, food, clothing, but she still misses her parents.

The staff in the home loved Sofia and helped her. People from all over the world sent her cards telling her how they were praying for her. After a long hard journey, Sofia has forgiven the people who shot her Mum and Dad. Now 13, Sofia is doing very well. She’s part of a worship band and wants to become a missionary.

Pray for

• For courage and protection for church leaders facing threats from armed groups.
• That talks between the government and rebel group, the FARC, will bring an end to decades of civil war.
• For the Children’s Centre, which provides a safe haven for young people targeted by guerrilla groups.

Where is Colombia?