This is a sad story concerning the President of Venezuela who is attempting to expel New Tribes Mission from the country.
In early October this is what happened according to The Christian Post -
In an unexpected declaration on Oct. 12, Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez ordered NTM to leave the country during a nationally televised speech. Chavez accused the mission group of collaborating with the CIA, violating custom laws, and living in luxury, among other allegations.
Personally, I think this is just absolutely ridiculous. Like a missions organization is in bed with the CIA, give me a break. Coincidently this also happened after Pat Robertson called for the assassination of Hugo Chavez. Robertson later apologized for his remarks.
Voice of the Martyrs has responded to this through Todd Nettleton -
“Our response here at Voice of the Martyrs (VOM) is essentially sadness at the lost of the people of Venezuela, of the service of New Tribes Mission if in fact this threat is followed through on and all the missionaries are forced to leave the country,” said VOM Spokesman Todd Nettleton.
“This is a mission organization with a great history of service in that country; a great history of service to the people of Venezuela, the indigenous people, the tribal people and the poor people.”
I agree with Todd. I had some friends who worked with NTM and they had the best experience ever. Please remember this situation in prayer and join me in asking the Lord to give favor to NTM and also to keep the doors open to the gospel in all countries we are currently ministering in.