Ministry on Wheels: A Story of Faith, Resilience, and Divine Providence

On the winding roads of Biliran, one might catch a glimpse of a Foton Harabas TM 300 adorned with a striking sign that reads “Ministry on Wheels.”

This isn’t just any vehicle. It features a vibrant, religious-themed mural painted in bright, inviting colors that make it stand out on the road. At its center is a serene image of Jesus Christ surrounded by children—a visual depiction of peace, love, and purpose. Above the mural, the words “Ministry on Wheels” are elegantly inscribed in flowing script, declaring its mission to all who see it.

These two vehicles bring ministry closer to the people—especially those in hard-to-reach areas and families struggling with daily needs.

Central Philippine Union Conference

But beyond its eye-catching design is a higher purpose: to serve. This mobile ministry delivers housing materials, food, medical supplies, and missionaries to remote and disaster-stricken areas. At other times, it brings messengers of God’s love into unreached communities, offering Bible classes for children, free medical missions, feeding programs, and other outreach efforts that embody Christ’s compassion.

Central Philippine Union Conference

A Prayer in the Wilderness

The Ministry on Wheels began as the vision of Merlyn Maderazo, a woman of faith. She believed the vehicle was God’s answer to her seven-year prayer for a means to serve more effectively in her personal ministry.

Years earlier, Merlyn’s life was upended. Her husband lost a mayoral reelection bid and was later imprisoned for a crime she believed he didn’t commit. The ordeal brought deep humiliation and heartbreak. Left to raise her children alone, Merlyn wrestled with despair—but she chose hope. She clung to God and began serving others, funding small construction projects from her own pocket to repair and build homes for the homeless.

Her ministry gave her strength. Serving “the least of His children” brought joy and peace amid suffering. It was in this season that she came to understand the true meaning of resilience—finding comfort in God’s promises and purpose in His work.

Yet, logistical challenges loomed. Transporting materials to remote areas was difficult and expensive. Burdened by rising rental costs, she began praying earnestly for a vehicle—a van that could carry both people and supplies into the mission fields.

A Divine Appointment

In 2022, Merlyn learned of a generous benefactor from the United States known for supporting unfinished Adventist churches. He happened to be visiting the Philippines to see his girlfriend.

With a heart full of faith, Merlyn prayed:
“Lord, what car should I ask from this man—one that will truly speed the spread of Your gospel?”

Almost instantly, an image flashed in her mind: a van with three openable sides, filled with supplies, benches for missionaries, a TV screen, speakers, and even the ability to transport patients during emergencies. A quick online search confirmed such a vehicle existed—it matched her vision exactly.

But how would she meet this man and share her dream?

She prayed again:
“Lord, if I see him now, it means he will give me this car.”
It was one of twelve signs she asked for as confirmation.

The next morning, basket of freshly harvested rambutan in hand, Merlyn waited outside his girlfriend’s house. Hours passed. At around 10 a.m., the American man stepped out—but barely acknowledged her before returning inside. Later, his girlfriend came out to apologize, explaining his dislike for surprise visits.

Merlyn left discouraged.

A Turning Point

That Sabbath, Merlyn was invited to speak during the worship service. As the program began, the man and his girlfriend walked in. Her heart pounded. She prayed silently for the right words.

During her message, she saw his expression change—his eyes lit up with interest. Afterward, she resolved to speak to him, but a crowd surrounded him. He was leaving for the U.S. that very day.

She tried to approach, circling from one spot to another, but never got the chance. Defeated, she headed to her car. Then, remembering something she’d left inside, she turned back—and there he was walking away with his girlfriend.

Her heart pounded anew. Her mind screamed, “Go ahead, talk to him!” But her heart recoiled, “No.” It was a fierce battle between mind and emotion. Finally, a resolve settled: she would speak.

In that moment, she finally shared her vision. Though she struggled to describe the customized vehicle without a photo, the man was intrigued.

“How much?” he asked.
She gave a rough estimate.
“Okay,” he said. “Inquire as soon as possible.”

Overjoyed, Merlyn drew detailed sketches, outlined costs, and sent everything through his fiancée.

But two weeks later, a message arrived: the man had changed his mind.

A Test of Faith

The news broke her heart. It was a Friday, just before Sabbath. A typhoon—Paeng—raged outside, and inside her soul, a storm brewed as well. She had received twelve signs. How could this be?

Desperate for answers, Merlyn spent Sunday clearing brush on their farm, her mind racing with questions. Then came an epiphany: this was a test of faith, just like the stories of Abraham or the Syrophoenician woman in Scripture.

That evening, back home, a message arrived.
“The sponsor has reconsidered. He wants the full details and the final cost. Do it as soon as possible.”

Breakthrough

By Monday morning, Merlyn and her son were on a flight to Manila. A storm threatened to ground their trip, but they pressed on. As the plane ascended through dark clouds, sunlight broke through, flooding the sky in golden brilliance.

A still, small voice whispered:
“Don’t worry, Merlyn. Beyond those dark clouds, the sun is shining.”

They arrived in Manila, visited the van supplier, and finalized the design and cost. That very day, the first Ministry on Wheels van was paid for—a dream turned reality.

The Mission Expands

The ministry has since grown. In April 2025, a second van was acquired to further expand outreach. And in July 2025, the sponsor purchased a Bajaj Maxima Z, a rugged, three-wheeled vehicle capable of reaching remote areas where larger vans cannot go.

Today, Ministry on Wheels is preparing to establish a Center of Hope—a place where people in need can find support and encouragement.

Central Philippine Union Conference

A Life Anchored in Faith

Merlyn’s story is a testament to unwavering faith, resilience, and divine providence. Through storms, setbacks, and silence, she held onto the God who sees, hears, and answers in His perfect time.

She often shares her life verse:

“The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. Therefore, my heart greatly rejoices, and with my song, I will praise Him.”
— Psalm 28:7

The original article was published on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site.