Behind the Walls, a New Life Begins: 26 Inmates Give Their Hearts to Christ in Baptism at Bayamón 1072
- Pr. Carlos Martínez
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Bayamón, Puerto Rico — As part of an ongoing mission of faith and hope, the Bayamón 1072 Correctional Institution has been the site of significant spiritual events that demonstrate the transformative work of the gospel.
On August 2, 2025, nine inmates were baptized, marking the beginning of a spiritual restoration process that has continued to develop steadily. Following this mission, on the afternoon of Saturday, January 17, 2026, another significant baptism was celebrated in which 26 inmates made the public decision to give their lives to Jesus, after a period of spiritual preparation.
The ceremony was attended by Chaplain Marta Reyes; Pastor Rodolfo Cosme, president of the East Adventist Association; and Pastor Tony Sandoval. Pastor Eric Ríos, director of Chaplaincy; and Pastor Carlos Martínez, director of Health and Temperance and Communications for the East Adventist Association, accompanied this moment of profound spiritual significance and evident Christian joy.
The spiritual preparation of those baptized was led by a dedicated team of chaplains comprised of Neftalí Fuentes Crespo, Brenda Cubertier, Sol Vida Alverti, Mercedes Ortiz, Esperanza Ibáñez, Pastor Pedro Torres, Saymara Correa, Aracelis Santiago, Gladys Quiles, Helda Quintero, Jacqueline Francisco, Pedro Falero, Ingrid Sabelen, William Hiraldo, and David Ferri, whose constant work continues to bear visible fruit. These events have been described as profoundly spiritual and historic, reaffirming that the message of salvation continues to transcend borders and transform hearts.
As Scripture says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17). With gratitude and joy, we acknowledge that God continues to open doors and that His Holy Spirit continues to move powerfully.
We call upon the faith community to pray with joy and perseverance for this faithful group of chaplains, who minister with love and dedication every Saturday, as well as for all chaplains serving in correctional institutions, bringing a message of salvation, restoration, and hope.
