29/01/2026
September 27, 2020, was my first time attending church at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I didn't know what I felt, but I knew it felt good inside the church because they welcomed me wholeheartedly. I didn't feel out of place with the people; they accepted me wholeheartedly, which is what I needed. Every Sunday, I was excited to attend church. I met the missionaries, and they taught me about the gospel. On November 23, 2020, I was baptized, the day I accepted God and His gospel in my life. To be honest, my faith, testimony, and foundation weren't that firm yet. I didn't really know the gospel even though I was already a member. But as I stayed in the church, participating in activities that were super fun and always centered on Jesus Christ and His gospel, I slowly learned more.
I'm grateful for seminary; it helped me develop a desire to serve God. I'd attend seminary classes even if only two of us showed up – kami ni Marian – with our teacher, Kuya Cris. I was a senior high school student back then, traveling from San Jose National High School to Dulag Proper about three days a week, I guess, going home around 6 or 7 p.m. That experience helped me get to know myself better and strengthened my foundation, but it wasn't easy. As a member, I faced trials, problems, and temptations that I couldn't handle, and it got really tough.
Sadly, I stopped attending church and was inactive for almost two years. I suffered a lot due to personal and family problems, to the point where my family broke apart. It was hard, and I didn't know where to find the strength to fight. I became blind to Satan's influence, thinking it'd be better to stay away from church and have more fun outside. But I was very wrong. I wanted to go back to church, but shame and guilt held me back – that's what Satan made me feel.
One day, Ate Erica, the bishop's wife at the time, messaged me, para kamustahin ako. She told me to come back and attend FSY. I was really hesitant, though, because it had been years since I'd last attended. But there's one thing Ate Erica said that I won't forget: "You don't attend church for people; you attend church for the Lord." It gave me peace, comfort, and love, so I went back to church.
As I stayed in the church again, I saw myself slowly seeking God and His love more and more. I realized how wrong it was to leave the church just because of trials. When I faced challenges, I learned that God wouldn't give us trials if we can't handle them – He's testing us, challenging us to become stronger.
One time, I messaged my friend about us going on a mission, especially since there were signs of the Second Coming. We were really scared, thinking what if Jesus Christ asks us what we've done. So we decided to apply for a mission, even without our parents knowing. I quit my studies, even though I was about to start my third year of college. It wasn't easy for my family, since I was almost done, but I knew this was what I wanted. I wanted to serve in this mission – it was the right time to serve Him.
I prepared myself for the outcome, and I expected that it wouldn't be easy when I told my family about my decision to stop studying and serve God. My mom got mad, but I expected that. I knew it was one of the trials I had to face and overcome. One day, I prayed and fasted to Heavenly Father, asking for my family's hearts to be opened. After praying and fasting, I messaged my mom, explaining why I wanted to go on a mission and my plans. Her response was just "seen". But it gave me peace, and I took it as a yes.
So after a few days, my mom asked me when I'd leave and if I'd taken care of my school papers for the LOA (Leave of Absence). I was shocked. Applying for the mission wasn't easy for me or my friends. It tested our patience, trust, and unity. We faced delays, disappointments, personal struggles, and even friendship challenges. There were times we wanted to give up, but one day we prayed, asking Heavenly Father to let us know if this wasn't meant for us, then He wouldn't give it to us. But miracles happened – I witnessed them. After weeks, our papers were okay, and we submitted them. October 27, 2025, I received my mission call... it was overwhelming, and all the sacrifices, exhaustion, delays, rejections, and doubts were worth it. I wanted to hug Heavenly Father, grateful for this once-in-a-lifetime blessing.
There was a time, I was challenged when someone said the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a cult. I got hurt because that's how they see it, but it hit me – I had to pursue seeking the truth because their assumption was wrong. After seeking, I learned how to answer such claims. The Church is not a cult; it's the true Church of Jesus Christ. I found peace, love, comfort, and answers to my questions – and I found who I really am. I discovered my purpose in this world and got to know Jesus Christ better.
Through everything, I know He was always there, His arms helping me stand and fight. His grace and love never left me, despite all my mistakes. He's still there, and He and Jesus Christ are real.
Despite all I've been through, even when I couldn't see Jesus Christ's light, now I know that when I go through that again, I'll find Him – because now I know that The light of Jesus Christ is always in His church and His gospel.
CALLED TO SERVE!✨
Sister Padillo
Philippines Davao Mission🇵🇭
January 30, 2026 - July 2027
[email protected]💌