Ten inmates were baptized at Tacumbú Penitentiary in Paraguay’s capital at the start of Holy Week. Church leaders and family members attended the event, supporting the inmates in this significant spiritual decision.

The baptisms followed several weeks of spiritual preparation within the facility, including Bible studies and a special week of prayer. The ceremony was led by Joel Flores, a pastor for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in South America, together with Alberto Pirelli, a pastor for the Paraguayan Union.

Baptisms mark new beginnings

Holy Week began in Paraguay on March 20. In the weeks leading up to it, a special week of prayer was held at the Adventist church inside the prison. During this time, inmates participated in Bible studies presented through video messages by Flores.

At the conclusion of the studies, ten inmates chose to dedicate their lives to Jesus through baptism and requested that Flores officiate the ceremony. The occasion became even more meaningful when the pastor visited them in person, listened to their testimonies, shared a message of hope, and ultimately baptized them.

Stories of faith and restoration

Don Francisco's testimony was one of the most moving of the day, attendees said. For years, he resisted spiritual appeals despite his family’s persistent invitations. After arriving at Tacumbú Penitentiary, he decided to accept that invitation and prepare for baptism.

On the day of the ceremony, his children, members of the Adventist Church, were present to support him. Deeply moved, he wept as he took this step of faith.

Pirelli highlighted the impact of this decision with a reflection, “He is still locked up, but since Friday, he has freedom in Christ.”

Another testimony came from Juan, who had previously been a member of the Adventist Church before circumstances in his life led him to prison. “We had the privilege of rescuing a person for the Lord that day,” Pastor Pirelli said.

His story reflects the Sabbath School emphasis on “Save two people and rescue one,” showing that spiritual renewal can take place even in challenging environments. Now restored in his faith, Juan is actively involved in the church community within the prison.

Ongoing mission inside the prison

Tacumbú Penitentiary has had an active Adventist presence for several years. Mission work has expanded through the efforts of Raúl Enoc Carrillo, a long-serving Bible instructor within the facility.

As a result, a group of inmates has also been trained to serve as Bible instructors, sharing their faith and supporting others on their spiritual journey.

These baptisms highlight how faith-based initiatives can foster transformation and offer hope, even within correctional settings.

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