Peru (MNN) — Next, it’s taken nearly eight years, but an innocent Christian is now free in Peru. Colonel David de Vinatea (dah VEEN-ah-TEE-ah) was released from prison after having his sentence commuted.
De Vinatea was arrested November 9, 1995 on trumped up drug charges. Open Doors’ Latin America Director, Richard Luna explains. “From the president to his first chief of staff, they were, since the early 90’s highly involved in trafficking of drugs. So, when he chose to say no to corruption the very corrupt people knew he was a danger so they put him in prison. Not for believing in Christ, but for obeying his faith.”
Luna says his release was well orchestrated. “He walked out because of an international coalition of Christians from different walks of life. Pastor and NGO’s, human rights groups, congressmen, parliament members, united on this effort,” says Luna. He says, “Because of these efforts he was releasedafter eight years.”
Luna says de Vinatea’s testimony spoke loudly. He says, “David was faithfully able to be a witness to his faith. The Lord gave him fruit and as a result there are believers in the prison because not only did he suffer, but he kept the faith, he shared his faith and I think that’s something we need to do as well.”
Continue to pray for de Vinatea family as they try to get back to normal. Pray too for the prisoners who are now without a pastor and spiritual leader.
