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.

Contributors

Host

Omar Calvillo

Omar Calvillo is a husband, father, author, ministry leader, ordained chaplain, and host of the Light Has Dawned Podcast. Born and raised on Chicago’s Southwest Side, Omar spent years caught in gang life, addiction, and incarceration. In October 2004, he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ and experienced a radical transformation through the grace and power of God.

Omar has been married to his wife, Ann, since 2005, and together they have three children. He serves as an elder at his local church and is an ordained chaplain through Christian Chaplains & Coaching, serving inside Chicago’s Cook County Jail.

He is the founder and executive director of Light Has Dawned Ministries and author of From Darkness to Light: The Gospel Journey. Through the podcast and ministry, Omar shares the Gospel and stories of redemption with one mission: to bring the light of Jesus Christ into dark places.

https://www.facebook.com/omar.calvillo.31/