In Zapote, Alto Huallaga, in northern Peru, on May 18, 2024, an entire congregation, together with its leader, decided to become part of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Víctor Villacorta, pastor of this congregation, took this decision guided by the Bible.

With 30 members under his guidance, Villacorta has been a fervent seeker of divine truth. Day after day, he prayed for God's direction. In March of last year, this search led him to question a key practice in his church: the observance of Sunday as a day of rest. During a meeting with his leaders in Huánuco, where the headquarters is located, he bravely posed the question that had been on his mind: "Why do we keep Sunday if the Bible says that the Sabbath should be kept? "

The leaders' response, arguing that Sunday was observed for the resurrection of Jesus and that it should adhere to established doctrines, did not satisfy the pastor's concern. Determined to deepen his study of the Bible, Villacorta contacted Adventist members who lived in the area. They provided Bible studies and materials from Ellen G. White, which presented the truth of the Sabbath as a day of rest.

This new understanding led Villacorta and some of his members to decide to join the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Although more than 50% of his followers decided not to accompany him on this new path, his conviction did not waver.

On May 18, 2024, the Zapote community experienced a historic day. It was the first Saturday that the newly formed "The Good Samaritan of Zapote" Seventh-day Adventist Church held its meetings. This day was especially significant since it was attended by members of the Adventist churches of Yurimaguas, who had been praying for this group.

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