Members from the ten Adventist churches across the Balicuatro District of Northern Samar joined the congregation at a provincial jail to celebrate its first anniversary on March 22, 2025.
This congregation, which has grown over time, is a result of the dedication of church members from the Balicuatro district, who take turns facilitating the prison ministry each Sabbath.
This milestone marked a year of faith, transformation, and spiritual renewal among the inmates, initiated through the efforts of Adventist World Radio (AWR) Radio Evangelism.
The jail ministry began with its first baptism on March 23, 2024, where 28 souls committed their lives to Christ following a weeklong crusade led by Pastor Randie Igloso.
Since then, the spiritual revival continued with subsequent baptisms: seven more individuals on May 25, 2024, ten on August 17, 2024, and the most recent baptism of six souls on March 29, 2025.
The program was well-organized during the anniversary, with the prison’s vicinity adorned with meaningful decorations. It inspired a spirit of celebration among inmates, their joy evident through their glowing smiles.
Pastor Antonio Gobi, Jr., president of Samar Mission, graced the anniversary program. He expressed admiration for the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the inmates. He noted that although these individuals remain within prison walls, they have found true freedom through their faith in Christ.
A key highlight of the celebration was the moving testimonies of the prisoners who accepted Christ as their Savior. They shared how their lives changed and how they were now actively leading worship services under the guidance of church leaders.
Many inmates vowed that upon their release, they would continue their faith journey and become active members of the church.
Every Sabbath, different churches from the local district take turns nurturing the believers and providing snacks for all the inmates. Nevertheless, the dedicated couple, Abel and Marites Francisco, have been specifically assigned to oversee the jail ministry, ensuring that spiritual guidance and support remain consistent.
Beyond the prison walls, the impact of this evangelistic initiative has extended to the inmates’ families. Some shared that their loved ones outside the correctional facility had become open to the Gospel and even attended nightly programs held in local churches near their homes.
The presence of Christ among the inmates has brought about an undeniable shift in the prison’s atmosphere. Where once there was despair, there is now peace and hope.
The jail congregation stands as a testament to the power of faith and the boundless reach of God’s love.
The Balicuatro District elders, treasurers, clerks, and youth council’s commitment to this ministry will continue. Under the leadership of Pastor Randie Igloso and his wife, Joy, their dedication has played a vital role in the continued spiritual growth of the inmates and the success of the jail ministry.
Rhea Noreen Mae C. Sumalpong, Communication Director, Samar Mission
The article’s original version was published on the official Facebook page of the Samar Mission of the Seventh-Day Adventists.