”Ordained by God”

Last October, I re-shared Richard Dalton’s story, “I found Jesus in Prison.” I would like to share it again for reference because about two weeks ago, I received a wonderful news from Richard saying that he will be ordained this December, after 12 long years! This is how important Adopt a Minister is to those who are called by God to the ministry and only because of God and our dedicated sponsors that we can continue to support God’s workers. Most Theology students are poor working students. Some are the only Adventists in their family. Yet, like Prophet Isaiah in Isaiah 6:8, “Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: “Whom shall I send, And who will go for Us?” Then I said, “Here am I! Send me.”

Richard Dulton tells his story:

I am Richard R. Dulton, 38, born into a Catholic family from Cavite, Philippines. During my teen years (1996 – 2005), I worked as a professional dancer. Our group danced regularly on television shows. We were also featured in comedy films. We danced in many places and events together with local and foreign celebrities. At that time, I was a worldly person, a drunkard, a gambler, a playboy, and I took drugs.

However, one day, my great life as an entertainer suddenly ended. On May 17, 2005, I was arrested by a law enforcer (NBI) and charged with drug pushing of the illegal drug “ecstasy” – a capital offense. No bail was recommended and I was sentenced to life imprisonment. I was put in Makati City Jail. I knew my life was over. I felt so alone, helpless and without hope.

But one day, I saw inmates going to the meeting room for Bible study. I was bored and decided to attend and that’s when I learned about God and His plan for my life.

I learned about His “good news” of Salvation, His teachings, and He changed me to a better person. I became prayerful. I read the Bible daily and walked in the truth that I had received. I wanted to get baptized but I couldn’t get baptized. I have a son with my girlfriend and we were not married. The Adventist guard and adviser of our Bible study group encouraged and helped me clear my name.

Two years and 2 months later, on July 2007, I stood before the judge quite anxious and hopeful. It was judgment day for me. The judge was going to decide if I was guilty or not. By the grace of God, I was acquitted and declared innocent in the court of law. I am so thankful to God and to those who helped me have a second chance to live as a free member of the society.

On December 7, 2007, my girlfriend and I got married and 5 days later, we were baptized.

Not long after this, I went back to jail – not as a prisoner, but as a Bible preacher. I did jail ministry in many places.

In 2010, I learned about the “working” student program at the Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP). I went there to work and study. I worked as a student-guard, church helper, a guardian to a foreigner. I experienced a lot of hardships. There were times when I got discouraged but Jesus was always there for me.

In 2012, God gave me a sponsor who helped me with my studies, and after four and a half years on March 29, 2015, I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Theology (Cum Laude). Jesus has been so good to me and I love Him very much. I want to continue to work for God and become His minister – to share how good and great He really is and how He changed me and freed me from all my sins.

Acts 3:19 Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.

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Another adopted minister who was under Adopt a Minister International for several years was also ordained!

Pastor Noel Bornales stated, “As I accept the mantle of pastoral ministry, I do so, with deep reverence for the sacredness of this calling. Being ordained into ministry is both an honor and a great responsibility. The words of the Apostle Paul in 2 Timothy 4:2 as mentioned by Pr. Gerardo Cajobe resonated with me deeply: “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.” These words remind me that ministry is not merely about standing behind a pulpit but also about living the Word of God daily, in service to His people.

I understand the challenge before me and my family. We live in times of spiritual, social, and personal complexities. As a newly ordained pastor, I commit to seeking divine guidance in addressing these challenges while upholding the principles of truth, love, and justice as taught in God’s Word.

As part of Sacro Sanctus, I am reminded that this calling is sacred, holy, and set apart. The Latin phrase reminds me that I am not just a laborer, but a sacred steward of God’s flock. This is not a profession; it is a divine vocation. I am called to nurture, protect, and lead God’s people, pointing them always to the ultimate Shepherd—Jesus Christ. All praises and glory be to our God.”

We truly thank God for all our faithful sponsors and family and friends, for without you, this ministry wouldn’t have made 24 years! Here’s to praying for more of God’s favors, goodness, grace, mercy and compassion in the years to come! Please continue to partner with us until that day when we see our Savior in the clouds of heaven!