How their ‘darkest hours’ tested celebrities’ faith

Since it’s Holy Monday, let’s take a break from the show biz circus. “Semana Santa” is the only time of the year when there are no shootings, live shows and concerts. All show biz activities come to a halt. Actors step aside as Jesus Christ Superstar takes center stage.

That ought to be the scenario every day, but we get caught up in the daily grind. So, the Holy Week serves as a reminder to shut everything else out and give a shoutout of thanks to the Lord.

In observance of Lent, I asked some celebs to share their story about the time their faith in God was tested. As one of my fave quotes goes: God takes us to deep waters, not to drown us but to cleanse us.

Long after the Holy Week is over, may we never hesitate to take a leap of faith.

Aiko Melendez

Aiko Melendez
Years ago, before I became a born-again Christian, I had a procedure done on my face. It’s a story of science gone bad. I became so vain, and this doctor insisted that I go through a procedure.

After that, my face got swollen, and it had pus. At the time, I was finishing my stint in “Apoy sa Dagat.” I was bashed on Twitter and Instagram, and was jobless for almost two years. But, my faith kept me going. I prayed so hard for the restoration of my face and committed myself to serve the Lord. After eight months of treatment, my face went back to normal.

Rita Avila

Rita Avila

I’m an only child who grew up in a soap opera-like setting. My cross was so heavy I tried committing suicide a few times, only to wake up alive. I was convinced that I was a cat with nine lives and a spoiled child of God. Faith in Him never ceased, actually, that even in my darkest hours and amid my foolish thoughts, I asked Him to save my soul.

John Estrada

John Estrada

When I was a teen, I went swimming with friends and nearly drowned. I was caught in an undertow. While I was struggling to keep my head afloat and trying to catch my breath, panic quickly set in.

I felt myself getting weak from struggling with the waves, and my mind was already telling me to give up, because I was already very tired. Then, I screamed my prayer to God, “Help me!” Suddenly, a huge wave propelled me forward towards the shore.

This experience didn’t just test my faith in God; it made me a firm believer that He is truly alive, and He answers all our prayers. That near-death experience made me realize that God is always present. He’s just waiting for us to get closer to Him.

Jed Madela

Jed Madela

A few years ago, I was at a point in my life where I was lost and couldn’t find direction in my career and personal life. I wanted to quit. To add to that, I developed anxiety and panic attacks that affected my health.

I started to question the Lord, “Why me?” and developed resentments. I’m thankful that my parents instilled values in me, that my foundation didn’t shatter and get the better of me. Though I became weak and questioned the Lord, I held on to my faith. Eventually, my prayers were answered. Now, I’m getting better. I realize that He has plans for all of us. All we have to do is put our faith and trust in Him.

Derek Ramsay

Derek Ramsay

I have always believed in God. I never blame or doubt my relationship with Him, no matter what happens in my life.