SOM Latin America
Violent, armed militias and/or drug cartels control many remote regions of Colombia and Venezuela where there is no internet access. Colombia is the second-highest producer of cocaine in the world. (Afghanistan is the highest as of 2019.) After the conclusion of 54 years of civil war in 2017, vast regions are still under-served and unreached with a clean Gospel witness.
In 2009, American missionary to Colombia and good friend Russell Stendal approached David about joining forces with SOM International, which became the umbrella United States office to communicate with USA partners about the vital ministry in war-torn Colombia. The ministry in Colombia is touching the lives of people through Christian radio broadcasting and distributing Bibles and Christian materials. The work has now expanded to the people of Venezuela and other Spanish-speaking nations. Most importantly, there are relationships being built with Latin Americans of all political, religious, and ethnic persuasions as we demonstrate peace and love through faith in Jesus Christ.
Meet Russell, Director of SOM – South America
- Russell authored over 30 books, including editing the Jubilee Bible, in English and Spanish.
- Russell and the team have produced over a thousand radio programs on the Bible, family, marriage, children’s programs, and history.
- He was taken hostage five times by anti-Colombian government forces.
- Russell wrote the book Rescue the Captors while being held hostage for five months in the jungles of Colombia.
- He has consulted with Colombian presidents, generals, and other leaders throughout South America.
- Russell is a veteran Andes Mountains aviation pilot and used planes to parachute hundreds of thousands of Bibles and Christian materials into restricted and hostile zones of the Colombian jungle.
- Russell was nicknamed “The Apostle of Peace” for his influential role in the final Peace Accord in 2017.
Latest News from SOM Latin America
Why Christians are #1 Persecuted People in the World
Christians face daily threats around the world In countries where freedom of faith is only a distant dream, Christians face persecution every day. Additionally, National leaders often push minority groups aside. These leaders in power have structures in place to acquire and maintain control. SOM International has witnessed this dynamic for over a decade on multiple continents around the globe. Moreover, Christians are the #1 persecuted people group in the world. Why do Christians take the lead in affliction? Therefore, the following are five main reasons Christians face the heaviest weight: 1. The Gospel brings transformation (Revelation 21:5), and people
[PHOTO GALLERY] 2020 Highlights from South America
2020 Highlights from South America 2020 Highlights Reported by: Russell and Marina Stendal In reflecting back on the highlights in 2020, it was a very productive and successful year for our ministry and you have been a vital part. At first, things did not look so good due to the pandemic lockdowns. This, however, gave us time to finish writing, editing, and publishing many book projects in English and Spanish that had been on the back burner. (Visit Our Bookstore Here) I was also able to preach through all sixty-six chapters of Isaiah in both languages. Read more about Russell Stendal
Bibles by the Boatload in Venezuela
Bible Delivery: Bibles by the Boatload in Venezuela By Russell and Marina Stendal Turmoil and unrest continue to increase in the world around us, but we are finding unprecedented opportunities to share the gospel and to witness exponential growth. One of the world’s most dangerous places is the 1,378-mile Colombia/Venezuela border. This region is home to many diverse and corrupt factions and is also teeming with millions of desperate individuals fleeing the economic devastation of Venezuela or attempting to procure necessary food and medicine in Colombia. Colombia is where drugs, gasoline, cattle, gold, and even diamonds are being smuggled, not
New Far Reaching Radio Tower Covers All Venezuela
Installing radio towers is not for the faint of heart. Climbing up to elevated heights is daunting. Facing strong winds in high temperatures requires patience. Overcoming numerous technical difficulties for weeks takes perseverance. Nevertheless, by the grace of God, SOM Colombia workers accomplished the complicated task of installing a radio tower on the Colombia border that extends transmission all over Venezuela and half of Colombia. Workers had to build the radio tower, install the complex antennas, and transmitter system, and rebuild part of the camp. Workers from SOM Colombia experienced extremely dangerous roads on the way back to their urban
Persecuted Christian Kogi Indians in Colombia
On August 6th, 2020, the Kogi cabildo leader José de los Santos Sauna Limaco, governor of the Kogi – Malayo – Arhuaco Indigenous Reserve in Colombia, was declared dead in a clinic. A Colombian Navy helicopter transported him to a clinic in Santa Marta three days prior to his death, as he was suffering from a high fever and having difficulty breathing. His death has been attributed to COVID-19; he was 44 years old. This is the man who was an enemy of Christianity in his tribe, who actively persecuted and maliciously punished the Christian Kogis, as well as falsely
(VIDEO) Expansion of Radio Ministry in Mexico
Radio Ministry in Mexico - Expanding Christ's Message SOM Mexico workers have been connecting with our contacts in Colombia. They saw first hand the incredible impact the radio ministry has had across South America. We are rejoicing with them in the expansion of the radio ministry in Mexico. Watch the encouraging video below of SOM Mexico/MAPS putting up their radio tower and expanding their witness. Get Involved with Global Impact Projects
