Colombians In North America    I. Historal Perspective A. Country of Origin -- Colombia, South America B. Language(s) -- Predominately Spanish, but other languages do exist among indigenous people.

C. Religious Background - Until recently, Colombia has been known as a very Roman Catholic country. However, evangelical groups have made significant advances among the population.


D. Southern Baptist Work - British Baptists were present in Colombian Territory in some islands in the Caribbean Sea. In the continent, however, it was late in the first half of the twentieth century that the Southern Baptists came into Colombia to do outreach work. One of the pioneers of this work was Dr. Henry Schwiensberg.  With him, others came to establish central churches in main cities to make them the points from which other churches would come into being. A center of theological studies was created in Cali to serve as the institution for neighboring countries. A clinic in Barranquilla has been in existence almost from the very outset, serving the health needs of people in general, but especially pastors and their families. Mr. Jarman, the shoe producer, was instrumental in building beautiful church buildings in the main centers of population. Through the seminary, Columbia has provided a good number of pastors with earned degrees.   


E. Sub-cultures - There are many indigenous groups located in the jungles.  Many missions work among them. We have all kinds of mixtures in Colombia; European, Mestizo, Mulatto, and Black.   


F. Past Challenges - The religious-political persecution, which has plagued Colombia since the 1940's, has been the most formidable. Colombia has had a history of violence, which has increased with time due to the trafficing of drugs.   


G. Past Immigration Patterns - The last 20 years have witnessed the immigration of many people.  These can afford to buy a home and establish a business in the U.S. Others have come because of the friendship of family connection. The reason for this movement of people is due to insecure conditions and few opportunities for earning a living in Columbia. Many enter the country with a tourist visa and remain after the permission expires. Most Colombians have come to live in California, Florida, New York, and most recently Atlanta, Denver, Dallas, Chicago, and Cleveland.   

II. Current/Future Challenges


A. Population - Today, there are more than 4 million Colombians residing in North America.


B. Present Immigration Patterns - There will be an increasing stream of people from Colombia due to political conditions mentioned already. 


C. Evangelism - The Colombian constitution established complete freedom to profess and practice any religion over a decade ago. Now the government allows many radio stations to broadcast evangelical religious programs 24 hours a day. Public gatherings are held anywhere at any moment to preach and present the message of the gospel. Television preachers also propagate the good news. This is an open country for the gospel.  Colombians adhere to traditional Catholic beliefs, but generally are friendly and open to consider other options. When they are in the process of relocating, they welcome the approach of others. 


D. Church Plants - Colombian Baptist churches do not exist in the U.S.  They do not mind becoming members of any existing Hispanic church. 


F. Family Life - Family ties are very strong. When there is no family nearby, friends become family.  Children are submissive and talking with adults is natural.
 

G. Education - Colombians, for the most part, are well-educated.  They love to have the chance to improve, so it doesn't take them long to learn English.  People with a university education are willing to do anything to put bread on their table, but later manage to go into business and other professions.