Marvin Gatdula Manalo

Testimony

Before I truly came to know the Lord, my life was deeply rooted in vices and worldly pursuits.
was involved in drinking and smoking and spent most of my time with people drawn to worldly
pleasures such as dancing, drinking sessions, and, at times, conflict and violence. Sundays were
not a time of worship for me, but simply another day for work and temporary satisfaction. During
those years, my life was far from God and without clear direction or purpose.

By the grace of God, a turning point came when a pastor visited our community in Barugante and
faithfully preached the Word of God. Through that message, the Lord spoke directly to my heart,
convicting me of my sins and calling me to repentance and new life in Christ. On that day, we
accepted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.

From that moment, the Lord began a deep and lasting work of transformation in my life. The old
lifestyle I once lived was replaced by a desire to follow Christ and live according to His Word.
God's transforming work did not stop with me alone-it began to affect our family and the entire
community as well.

Through prayer, discipleship, and the guidance and support of church partners, the Lord enabled
us to establish a local church. Today, this church serves as a spiritual home where worship,
fellowship, and the teaching of God's Word continue to grow. What was once a community
marked by darkness is now experiencing light, hope, and renewed purpose in Christ.