At its 1994 assembly, the Southeastern Minnesota Synod voted to enter into a companion relationship with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Colombia (Iglesia Evangelica Luterana de Colombia – IELCO). At that time there were 12 organized Lutheran congregations in Colombia. This partnership has opened the door to incredible ministry growth.
What is IELCO?
IELCO is the acronym for Iglesia Evangélical Luterana de Colombia (Lutheran Church of Colombia) formed in 1936 by two Lutheran women from southern Minnesota.
What is the population of Colombia?
53 million, with approximately 34 million identifying as Catholic. (As of 2024.)
How many people are members of IELCO?
1,800 confirmed members.
How many congregations are there?
21.
Where can I learn more about IELCO ministries?
Check their website at www.ielco.org.
What is IELCO's nickname?
IELCO is known as God in the Streets. This nickname was given due to IELCO’s presence in Colombia’s barrios (marginalized neighborhoods).
Did you know that IELCO has a national presence?
IELCO serves a prominent role in the Colombian peace process, including the national initiative of Peace and Reconciliation.
Did you know that IELCO is a Welcoming Church?
In their local communities, IELCO congregations are leaders in the humanitarian welcome of refugees fleeing Venezuela and other global nations.
Education remains central to the ministry of the Lutheran Church of Colombia, with its four Lutheran schools (CELCO) spreading the grace and love of Jesus among children and the greater community. Due to a reputation of educational excellence within an environment of Christian values based on the Gospel, CELCO schools are highly sought after within the communities they serve. Indeed, only 5% of CELCO students identify as Lutherans!
Accompaniment Partnership:
Volunteer in CELCO schools by reading books and sharing conversations with CELCO students in English via Zoom!
Financial partnership:
Provide marginalized children with quality pre-K through grade 12 education in CELCO (Lutheran) schools by sending funds to the synod for "Colombia Education."
For over 40 years, IELCO has shown up as a transformative presence within Colombian communities. Although worship happens in buildings, ministry happens with people on the streets; hence IELCO’s national reputation as God in the Streets. Here are just a few examples of IELCO’s Ministry of Diaconia:
Protecting My Future (Caracoli):
With temporary housing built into the sides of the Andes mountains into the sides of the Andes mountains surrounding the capital city of Bogotá, the barrio of Caracoli is known for its abject poverty. IELCO’s ministry, Protecting My Future, provides adolescent girls an opportunity to gather in a safe environment with a pastor and social worker to explore career paths (hospitality, health care, fashion design, selfcare) while providing a vision for the future.
Migration Ministry:
Since 2019, IELCO has been a leader in local Colombian communities by welcoming refugees who are fleeing violence throughout the world. The January 2025 closing of the U.S./Mexico border created a bottleneck of refugees in Colombia. Since August 2024, the number of Venezuelan refugees alone has increased from 2 million to 3 million. In addition to affirming its commitment to ‘welcome the stranger, IELCO has recently expanded its ministry to include assistance to migrants traveling through the Darien Gap, one of the most dangerous places in the world.
The True Vine:
People with disabilities, widows, and cancer survivors are often isolated in Colombian society. Through the True Vine ministry, IELCO provides a safe space for these ‘forgotten ones’ to gather as community, create and sell handmade goods, and enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal. With the goal of long-term sustainability, the True Vine ministry is moving down the street into the soon to be renovated Por de Sol Fe (By Faith Alone) Lutheran Church, eventually becoming a ministry of this congregation.
Gender Safety:
Violence against women and LGBTQIA+ folks is prevalent in machismo communities. IELCO walks with the people by providing safe spaces to gather.
Accompaniment Partnership:
Explore an accompaniment relationship with an IELCO school or congregation. Plan to visit IELCO congregations, schools, and ministries in the near future!
Financial Opportunity:
Partner with IELCO in their community ministries by sending funds to the synod for "Colombia Undesignated."
Office of the Bishop Contact:
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Southeastern Minnesota Synod Office