Life often presents us with unexpected challenges, and for Jonard Labastida Cadalin, his journey began in one of its most difficult places: the grip of addiction. Jonard’s story is a powerful testament to faith, resilience, and the transformative power of divine grace that can guide us toward a brighter path.
Seeking a Fresh Start
Jonard’s struggles started with drug use, which later escalated to alcohol and smoking. Desperate for a fresh start, he left his hometown in Mindanao, hoping that a move to Cebu for school would help him escape his unhealthy environment. However, he soon realized that simply changing his surroundings wasn’t enough to break his ingrained habits. He quickly fell back into old patterns with new friends, finding himself feeling lost and adrift once more.
A Prayer Answered
The deep longing for change became undeniable. Jonard began seeking spiritual guidance, attending various religious gatherings in hopes of finding peace and direction, but nothing seemed to satisfy the emptiness he felt. As his habits worsened, a pivotal moment arrived when his aunt, who had been providing him shelter, gave him a difficult choice: return home and give up on school, or stay in Cebu but find a new place to live.
With nowhere to go and no clear path forward, Jonard turned to prayer, a sincere plea to God for help. This heartfelt prayer set in motion a series of tender mercies. A kind friend offered temporary shelter, and eventually, his best friend allowed him to stay until he finished school. It was during this time, in his friend’s home, that he discovered a pamphlet about Jesus Christ. The image of the Savior carrying a lost sheep deeply resonated with him; Jonard felt like that lost sheep, yearning to be found.
A Guiding Message of Hope
Not long after, missionaries entered Jonard’s life. Their warm introductions and patient messages about Jesus Christ and God’s plan stood out. Despite grappling with doubts from things he had read online, the missionaries’ peaceful presence and thoughtful answers gave him genuine hope. They never gave up on him, and their kindness, combined with their message, affirmed that true change was indeed possible.
The Path to Transformation
The journey to change was not immediate. Jonard continued to smoke and drink occasionally, but a growing desire to transform his life took root. He began reading the scriptures, praying sincerely, and gradually distancing himself from his old habits. The missionaries were incredibly patient, never pushing, but always inviting him to progress. Over time, Jonard began to feel the Spirit more clearly, understanding that genuine repentance was truly within his reach. This process wasn’t easy, but he knew he was moving in the right direction.
A New Beginning: Baptism and the Holy Ghost
When Jonard finally decided to be baptized, he was filled with both nervousness and a profound sense of peace. It was a powerful moment, akin to being given a fresh start. Soon after, he received the gift of the Holy Ghost, and for the first time in years, he felt truly clean and hopeful about his future. Looking back, he clearly sees how God patiently guided him, step by step, out of darkness and into His light.
Building a Life of Faith and Purpose
Since his baptism, Jonard has remained actively engaged in the Church, attending seminary, serving a full-time mission, and helping at FSY (For the Strength of Youth) events. Each experience has strengthened his testimony in unique ways, reminding him that God works through people and moments to help us grow. It was at an FSY conference that he met the woman who would later become his wife. This past April, they were married in the temple—a sacred blessing Jonard once thought might never be possible for him.
The Enduring Promise of Redemption
Jonard’s journey is a powerful testament that real change is always possible. He has learned that repentance is not just about turning away from mistakes; it’s about turning toward Christ. He has felt the Savior’s immense patience, even when he stumbled. Christ never gave up on him. Through it all, Jonard has come to know that no matter how far we may have strayed, we can always come back. And when we do, the Savior is ready to lift us higher than we ever imagined. Truly, there is always a blessing when we choose to heed the Savior’s call.
What aspects of Jonard’s inspiring journey resonate most with you, and how has faith helped you navigate difficult periods in your own life?
