News: The Gangster Transformation Continues

In May, we reported about a crusade in Pavas, a sector in San José. More than 1,000 people gave their lives to the Lord in that crusade. Some of those people were some teenagers and young men who had been involved in the gang lifestyle. Many of these were dangerous men: gang leaders and assassins. In fact, the leader of the most powerful gang in the areas, a group called the Devils, gave his life to the Lord through that outreach.

We reported on a particular retreat that allowed these young men to confirm their commitment to the Lord, to trade their weapons for the Word of God, and to be baptized. Thirty-seven of them did so with relish.

We are happy to report that the seeds planted in that crusade have not been stolen by the devil, choked by weeds, or scorched by the sun.
Those seeds are bearing fruit to this day. Not long ago, the family members of those former gang members went on a weekend retreat, with more than 100 of them having similar experiences with God.

But, sadly, the transformation of these individuals has not led to more peaceful streets. Though the Devils has been disbanded, it has led to a power struggle on the streets of Pavas. New gangs are trying to fill the void left by the Devils, even to the point of killing members of the other gangs. Two of those young men who gave their lives to the Lord have been killed, one of them while he was picking up a friend for Bible study. 

Pray for protection for these young men as they continue being transformed by God and letting His light shine in their community.