The Congress of the Republic of Peru has given initial approval to Bill 4610, which proposes recognizing Saturday as a non-working day with compensatory time off for workers whose faith regards that day as a day of rest. The decision, taken on November 20, 2025, passed with 68 votes in favor, 2 against, and 19 abstentions, marking a significant step in the protection of religious freedom in the country.

The initiative, derived from Bill 4610/2022-CR, is designed to allow workers to observe their day of worship without risking their employment. According to the ruling, the hours not worked on Saturday must be made up within ten days or within the timeframe agreed upon with the employer. The bill also specifies that any employment clauses that discriminate on the basis of religion will be considered invalid, according to official parliamentary documentation.

Gift of Steps to Christ in Congress

Minutes before the session began, Edgardo Muguerza, director of Religious Liberty for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in northern Peru, presented copies of the special edition of Ellen White's Steps to Christ to the team of Congressman Juan Burgos, the project's sponsor. Burgos personally took the books and distributed them among the members of parliament in the chamber.

Steps to Christ, first published in 1892, is a work that for more than a century has guided millions of people to deepen their faith and their relationship with God.

A milestone for religious freedom

For the Seventh-day Adventist Church, this initial approval represents a moment of profound significance.

Muguerza said, “This advancement represents a giant step in defending the right to religious freedom, a constitutional right that protects the conscience, faith, and spiritual identity of thousands of Peruvian families. Although legislative processes take their course, God's timing is always perfect; He guides history, opens paths, and allows justice to advance at the precise moment.”

The initial approval of the bill is a cause for gratitude among many believers who observe the seventh-day Sabbath as a holy day. Church leaders note that this development follows years of advocacy and institutional work in favor of religious liberty. Daniel Montalván, president of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in northern Peru, invited members to remain united and prayerful as the process continues.

"Human processes move forward in God's perfect timing, and we trust that He will continue to guide this path with the same faithfulness with which He has opened doors until today," he declares.

Next steps in the legislative process

Under the Rules of Procedure of Congress, the bill must be submitted to a second vote within seven working days. If it is approved again, the proposal will be sent to the Executive Branch for enactment or possible observation and revision.

Church leaders say the Adventist community will continue to accompany the process with prayer and constructive engagement, while waiting for the final outcome of the legislation.

The original article was published on the South American Division Spanish news site.