"Down and out” is how Filiberto Gonzalez describes his life when he first heard the “La Vida Sobre el Tapete” ("Life on the Table") radio program in California’s Central Valley.

His marital problems and addiction to drugs and alcohol had taken a toll on his life, his wife Silvia and their two-year-old son. That day, as he was changing radio stations, an interesting Spanish accent caught his attention and he kept listening to the message of hope and reconciliation.

The prime time Spanish talk radio program, found at 100.3 FM on Fresno’s Radio Fiesta, airs at noon every Thursday. California’s only Adventist Spanish talk radio program reaches from Bakersfield to the Bay Area. Topics include family issues and health with community experts on air to answer the callers' questions. Callers also receive free booklets and invitations to rallies, conventions, health fairs, evangelistic meetings and local “Happy Home Clubs.” The first weekend marriage retreat was held on Oct. 21-23.

Several months later his life had gotten worse. Silvia had taken their son and left. Filiberto’s thoughts turned to despair and even suicide. That’s when he remembered the radio program.

During his lunch break, he tuned in and listened. Swallowing his pride, he called in for help and made a private appointment with the counselor. One hour later, he was meeting with Dr. Mario Celaya, a professional volunteer.

“I was crying like a baby,” says Filiberto. “I was very impressed by his willingness to help me. I knew that by the way he welcomed me, as well as by the general tone of the program, that these people were good people, that I could trust them.”

Next, volunteers contacted Silvia and helped her with rent and other expenses. After several counseling sessions, she decided to give Filiberto another chance. That was almost two years ago.

“Our lives have changed completely for the better. We are happier now that we have ever been,” reports Silvia. The alcohol and drugs have been left behind. They have attended meetings of the “Happy Home Club” in Lindsay and a recent marriage retreat.

“We have been attending the Visalia Bilingual Church for more than one year, and we hope to become baptized members soon,” says Silvia, “We are very thankful for the way that God has used the radio program and the volunteers to change our lives.”

This radio program, now in its third year, is made possible with funding from the camp meeting evangelism offering. For more information, contact Pastor Antonio Romero at 559-675-8213.