Providencia Islands, Colombia. Beyond the News.
Hurricane Iota ravaged Providencia and Santa Catalina Islands in Colombia to the point that more than 90% of the region was destroyed. The survivors were taken to San Andres, a nearby island that was less affected by the hurricane.
Keila Martinez, a key Awana leader in Colombia, led the relief efforts. Through the generous contribution of international donors, Awana Colombia distributed supplies to families, including meat, non-perishable food items, vegetables, medicine, personal hygiene products, clothing, and shoes.
The stories of the survivors are astounding, like that of Silvia Watson (a widow), her son, grandchildren, and nephew, who are all believers. We met them through “Doulos de Cristo” Bible Church, and they have sought to strengthen their faith as a family during this time, as well as share the food and supplies that Awana has made available. In Silvia’s words, they prepared to face the hurricane, but it wasn’t enough
“It was a constant battle to survive, but we kept praying despite the three long hours of anguish in the middle of the night. We ran to a prefabricated house that was in better conditions. When we got inside, we realized that only the bathroom was left standing, so one of the men went to see and found two elderly women. He rescued them and brought them back to the house. Without a doubt, God loves us and is always merciful. He rescued us, and we owe Him everything. Even though we lost everything, our faith remains firm that He will continue to provide for us just as He has up to this point. Brothers and sisters, thank you for being God’s instruments to bless us.”
Similarly, we value stories like Jenny’s, whom we were able to support with medicine, food, and clothes for her husband, children, sister with a disability, nieces and nephews, and siblings. She was with her 15-year-old daughter at the time of the hurricane, and her daughter hasn’t wanted to speak since the disaster. Please pray that God would give Jenny strength to continue serving her family, as well as for her daughter’s recovery.
Brother Juny Horward from Central Baptist Church of Providencia also received medicine, personal hygiene products, and food. He and his wife survived by sheltering in one of their neighbor’s bathrooms after their own house collapsed. He is currently still in Providencia, working alongside his pastor who has asked for help from “Doulos de Cristo” Bible Church to evangelize and disciple those who have remained on the island.
Prayer Requests:
That “Doulos de Cristo” Bible Church would be able to continue supporting the evangelism and discipleship of those who have been affected by the hurricane.
That the hearts of the islanders would be sensitive to the Lord’s voice and that, with conviction, they would make the decision to love and serve Him.
That the Lord would provide resources to the victims so they can rebuild their homes and return to their island.
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