News – Page 3 – East Central Philippine Union Coference

BJMP Guimaras inaugurated a new chapel inside its jail facility in Brgy. Alaguisoc, Jordan, Guimaras, on December 27, 2025. The blessing ceremony, attended by Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs), jail officers, local church members, and representatives from Faith Works Ministry, marked a significant step in the facility’s rehabilitation efforts.

The chapel, funded by Fannin Seventh-day Adventist Church, aims to provide a space for PDLs to experience spiritual renewal and reflection.

Representing BJMP Guimaras, SJO2 Ara B. Arellano, chief of welfare and development, highlighted the significance of the chapel in the jail’s rehabilitation efforts. “It is not merely a building within these walls, but a sacred space of hope, reflection, and renewal for our Persons Deprived of Liberty,” she said.

She further emphasized its impact, noting, “This stands as living proof that second chances can truly lead to meaningful transformation,” particularly as PDLs actively participated in constructing the chapel through honest labor and shared responsibility.

Niel Galanto, a PDL, delivered powerful words in his opening remarks that immediately captured the hearts of everyone present. “I am a Person Deprived of Liberty, but more importantly, I am a person who was found by God in a place where I once believed hope no longer existed.”

Reflecting on the meaning of the chapel, Galanto added, “This chapel is more than a building. For me and for many of us, it is a symbol of second chances.” Within a place of confinement, the chapel now stands as a living reminder that spiritual freedom and renewal remain possible for all.

His words echoed the inspired counsel of Ellen G. White: “There is no place where we may be that God cannot reach us.” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 57).

The Fannin Seventh-day Adventist Church, which generously funded the construction of the BJMP Guimaras chapel, received special recognition during the program. Everyone present acknowledged their support and selfless giving, which have brought this sanctuary to life.

For the attendees, the church’s advocacy exemplifies the power of faith in action, that when God’s love is shared through the hands of His people, lives are transformed and hope is restored.

Pastor Rafael Sualog, communications director for the Western Visayas Conference, delivered the keynote address. Sualog emphasized the role of redemption, faith, and rehabilitation, highlighting the belief that true transformation begins with spiritual change. He referenced Ellen G. White’s affirmation, “Christ came to restore in man the image of his Maker,” from the book "Education.

In addition, Merlin Parsons, Faith Works Ministry vice president, emphasized the heart of Christian service, saying, “If you’re not helping somebody spiritually today, then you’re not helping them at all.” He further added, “If you want to be blessed by God, then you learn how to be a gift-giver,” reminding everyone that ministry is most powerful when it meets eternal needs and is motivated by selfless love.

Another highlight of the event was the gift-giving portion of the program, which reflected Christ’s compassion in tangible ways as Faith Works Ministry shared tokens of care and encouragement with the PDLs—simple gifts that carried profound messages of love, dignity, and remembrance.

The blessing and inauguration of the new chapel concluded with songs and prayers, along with the reminder that when God is welcomed into any place, no wall is too high, no past too broken, and no life beyond redemption.

Geric Von De La Cruz ⎸ Head Writer ⎸ West Visayan Conference

The article's original version is published on the official page of the Faith Works Ministry

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