After four months of dedicated prayer and Bible study at the Trinidad Municipal Jail in Bohol, Philippines, five individuals publicly declared their faith through baptism on November 4, 2024.
The united efforts of Adventist churches across the province of Bohol mobilized church members to actively engage in conducting Bible studies and regularly visiting individuals deprived of their freedom.
The initiative was spearheaded by Benedicta Orevillo, a member of the local church in the town of Tagum Norte, who was moved by the Holy Spirit to serve the inmates of Trinidad Jail. She recounted, “While I was in town, the Holy Spirit impressed upon me the need to give Bible studies to the inmates. I approached the chief of police, and by God’s grace, he was open and supportive. We were able to organize weekly sessions immediately.”
Churches from the Northern Bohol District Unit 2 enthusiastically supported Orevillo’s vision for the jail ministry. Since then, they have conducted Bible studies every Sabbath afternoon, making a consistent spiritual impact.
Many inmates seek hope, peace, and healing, and various initiatives have been active in providing educational and interfaith programs within the prison system to support their rehabilitation. Religious organizations play a crucial role in this aspect, offering programs that aim to provide hope and facilitate healing through faith-based initiatives. These efforts are essential in helping inmates find peace and purpose during their incarceration, contributing to their overall rehabilitation and reintegration into society. The Adventist Church in Bohol sees this as an opportunity to share the message of hope and to find hope and healing in the scriptures.
The event marked a profound spiritual milestone as eight Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) made the life-changing decision to accept Jesus as their Savior. Their commitment was affirmed by Pastor Armando F. Andrade, the district leader overseeing the spiritual journey.
The baptism ceremony, officiated by Pastor Gregorio Aurestila of the Southeast Bohol District, was initially scheduled for December 1, a week later, at the local police station. However, unforeseen circumstances allowed only five of the eight PDLs to proceed with baptism. Two individuals were transferred to the Talibon Jail in another municipality the day after the culmination program, while one was released to reunite with their family.
The PDLs expressed heartfelt gratitude for the ministry that brought hope and spiritual guidance into their lives. One inmate shared tearfully, “I felt lost because of my situation, but through your presence and Bible studies, I feel guided.”
Police officers also acknowledged the transformative impact of the ministry. Police Sergeant Liezel Puracan Impis expressed her appreciation, saying, “We are grateful for your efforts in jail ministry. If not for my duty, I would have listened to the Bible study myself. It is enlightening. We’ve noticed a transformation in the inmates—they are kind and cooperative. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of you.”
Chief of Police PCPT Waldo Suraliza Batad shared his appreciation, praising the Adventist churches for their unwavering dedication and reaffirming his support by granting ongoing permission for the ministry to continue.