Cali, Colombia, Nazarene church feeds 120 daily and offers free classes in Siloé

In one of Colombia’s most dangerous and crime-affected neighborhoods, the Siloé Nazarene Church has become a place of hope. The church is located on the outskirts of Cali, in the Siloé neighborhood, which is considered one of the most dangerous areas in the country. Steiner Prieto planted the church in 2009.

Prieto’s personal experiences initially created resistance to the church, according to the report. The church later became a catalyst for change, and the community was receptive despite setbacks, including the theft of Prieto’s car and an attack on his son. Prieto said he was inspired by Matthew 9:36 to seek a meaningful way to serve the community.

In 2015, the Church of the Nazarene Siloé began offering breakfasts to children in the neighborhood. The program has grown and now provides food to more than 120 children and elderly people each day, a practice of hospitality (Matthew 25:35). The report says the service has been vital in providing food and has also helped change lives. As one example, it describes a mother struggling with addiction who found faith through the church and now volunteers in the meal program.

Beyond food assistance, the church offers classes that lead to secondary and vocational diplomas at no cost. It also runs a barbering program that teaches basic commercial skills. The church plans to extend these initiatives to other areas, including painting.

After nearly 15 years of ministry in the Siloé neighborhood, Prieto reflects on how God has used his personal pain to bring the church to a place once marked by suffering.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)