Light Has Dawned

Born in the heart of Chicago, Light Has Dawned brings you raw, honest stories of transformation from people who have walked through real darkness and encountered the hope of Jesus Christ.

Former gang members, ex-inmates, survivors of trauma, police officers, chaplains, ministry leaders, and community voices share their stories of struggle, faith, redemption, and purpose.

These conversations carry the grit of Chicago's streets and the grace of a God who still saves, heals, restores, and transforms lives.

Every episode is honest, personal, and rooted in the truth that no life is beyond the reach of God's redemption.

Our name is inspired by Matthew 4:16 (NKJV):
"The people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death Light has dawned."

Real people. Real stories. Real redemption.
Light Has Dawned.

Podcasting since 2022 • 207 episodes

Light Has Dawned

Latest Episodes

From the Vault: He Shouldn’t Have Survived | Victor Perez’s Testimony of Redemption

FROM THE VAULT: In this powerful testimony of redemption, Omar Calvillo sits down with Victor Perez of Baytown, Texas, to hear his journey from the streets to a life transformed by faith.Growing up around drugs, crime, and ...

October 06, 2026 • 1:18:12

From the Vault | From Homelessness to Hope: Vinny De Leon's Testimony

From a pastor's kid to a life consumed by drugs, alcohol, and destructive choices. From financial success to losing everything and sleeping in his truck. Vinny De Leon's story is a powerful testimony of redemption, restoration, and the life-cha...

September 28, 2026 • 1:01:42

From the Vault | Javier Garcia | From 10-to-Life to Eternal Life

🎙️ FROM THE VAULTWe're revisiting conversations from our podcast archive, bringing you powerful stories of redemption. Whether you're hearing them for the first time or listening again, we pray these testimonies remind you that th...

September 21, 2026 • 1:21:45

From Darkness to Light: The Gospel Journey | Why I Wrote This Book

In this short episode, I share the heart behind my new book, From Darkness to Light: The Gospel Journey, and the biblical theme that inspired it.From the opening pages of Genesis to Jesus Christ, the Light of the World, the theme ...

September 08, 2026 • 2:35

Introducing The Light Has Dawned Podcast | The Name Has Changed, The Mission Remains

Welcome to a new chapter.After nearly four years of sharing powerful stories of transformation, redemption, faith, and hope, the podcast is moving forward with a new name: The Light Has Dawned Podcast.The name has changed, ...

August 25, 2026 • 3:08

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Fan Mail

Hey Omar , been watching some of your videos , keep up the good work. I’m extremely proud of your growth and what you are doing in the community. You and I use hang out , back in the days , I graduated Grammer school and play high school baseball with your little brother Eric . Not sure if you remember me, my name is Geemoe. Good Bless you brother and keep doing what you’re doing!

Chicago, Illinois