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Hope for Justice and Peace

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 Dear Friends,              Hope for Justice and Peace      10/29/14
  
One student in La Mesa shared, “Before the class I had little hope for peace and justice in Colombia, but now I have hope. Thank you so very much.”

Another student in La Mesa where I gave 17 talks remarked, “I really appreciated that you I talked about how God wants Catholics and Protestants to work together rather than fighting each other. I really agree with that.” 

I always stay with the Quiroga family in Barranca. We really enjoy each other and do a lot of teasing. It is fun. Roberto and Eberty also made a point to encourage me to keep up the talks, saying they felt it is good and very important for Colombians.
 Here is Roberto, Robertito, Sasha, and Eberty.

 When I was here a couple of years ago, Roberto the father was beginning as a council member in Barranca a city of 300,000 .

It has been the custom for each member of the council to receive under the table a large sum of money. Roberto has refused to accept it out of personal conviction.
Because of that and his not voting for projects which he felt were wrong, the “powers that be” removed him along with 7 others from the council. Their cases are under review. He says it is all in the hands of the Lord. Pray for him.

Robertito in his economics class researched what are the largest businesses in the world.  The top four starting with highest are: Military armaments, illegal drugs, oil, and last is pharmaceuticals. Very Interesting.

Two teachers after hearing my sharing had me come to others of their classes. One was a priest who teaches religion. Here is a Barranca class room.
Often students were encouraging when they made a point to express appreciation for my talks.

Pray for the success of the peace talks between the government and the FARC; many people feel it will be big step in ending the 50 year civil war and are hopeful.

Pray that this trip may be part of bringing hope, peace and justice to Colombia. Thanks.


Shalom, Jim

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