51 Inmate: Rogie D. Candelari

September 3rd 2001 Name: Rogie D. Candelario Age: 37 yrs. DOB 21st October 1963 Status: Married 4 children

Crime: Homicide

Prison No.: N98P1969

Detained: Since January 1997 Sentence: 8 to 12 yrs. Dorm: Building X1-B Family Address: 7 Central Kalayaan, Brgy. Balagbag, Paasay City, Philippines. Occupation: Policeman

Greetings,

I had been a scalawag policeman. I used to take and sell prohibited drugs. I was a corrupt one; I did those things in search for happiness, fulfillment and enjoyment of life. One day the Lord dealt with me severely. With the incitement of my mother-in-law, my wife together with my three children left me. The Lord also took away my freedom; I was put in jail for killing one of my men, an informant because he double-crossed me.

Consequently, the Lord took away my authority and profession as a policeman, my salary, my friends, and almost everything. Only my life was with me. I was convicted and during my incarceration, at the point of severe pain and loneliness, I asked the Lord what He wants of me and wanted me to do. One day, I went to the SONLIGHT Ministry chapel, a local church inside the Bilibid Prison. I talked to the Pastor what work they might give me so I could help in the church; he was kind to give me a break. I never mentioned that I am a believer before this happened but I believed I was.

For two full years in the church I was involved in preaching and teaching the word of God to other prisoners in different cells while at the same time, pursuing my theological studies. Another year had passed and the Lord had

213 blessed me to finish my Diploma in Theology. Nevertheless, I did not stop right there but pursuing my studies for the degree in Bachelor of Theology by the help of the Bible School here in prison together with s0ome seminaries that have extended their curriculum here.

Last June 7th, 2001, I was commissioned as Pastor by the First Interdenominational Christian Ordaining Council based in this prison, and the Lord has entrusted to me different ministries while I am serving my sentence. Twice a week I am involved in Evangelism and Discipleship Training Program as Trainer, Lecturer and staff. Once a week I teach the word of God to the Death convicts of which I estimated 30 to 40% of them have already received eternal life. Every Monday I hold a Bible study at the close confinement cells to prisoners who have violations committed while serving their sentence.

I am now very grateful to what God has done in my life since I have totally surrendered to his will. I do not regret that I end up in prison. Because I have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, who has a better plan for me. I never would have become a Minister of God’s word if these things hadn’t happened to me. Now I have decided to serve the Lord for the rest of my life, and “I thank Jesus Christ our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry” (1 Timothy 1:12).

If you wish to write to me, I would be grateful to share with you how awesome and wonderful God we have.

Thank you and the Lord bless you.

Rogie: Witnessed by: Pastor Ray Calonzo.