As many readers of The Herald of Truth know our Editor in Chief and Pastor of the Seventh Day Church of God Caldwell, Byron Sanchez was arrested due to a parole violation on May 13 for possession of alcohol after an anonymous tip to police. Since then, he has been incarcerated in Canyon County Jail awaiting a parole hearing.
Also, as many in the area know, the State of Idaho repeatedly has shown little to no concern for the health of inmates and Pastor Sanchez’s health has been quickly deteriorating. As of now he has lost over 75 lbs.
However, despite his inability to eat, Byron’s ministry has continued, and he has touched the lives of dozens of inmates, bringing them to repentance and to Christ.
Please read this heart felt letter by Albert Gusman signed by 32 men from the jail. And please pray for Byron’s full healing.
Aug 11th, 2025
To whom it may concern,
My name is Albert Gusman, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be a disciple. I am writing this letter with my love, honor, integrity, and faith in Christ Jesus.
I arrived in Canyon County jail on May 29, 2025, sentenced to two years in prison for the first time in my life. I have struggled with my walk with Christ most of my life. I have belonged to multiple church organizations since I was 14 years old and attended Bible studies. However, up until now at the age of 58, the scriptures have never come to life and spoke to my spirit since I met Byron Sanchez.
I speak as a Christian witness on behalf of the men who have signed this letter of petition in support of a man who instills the Lord’s attributes and Jesus Christ’s characteristics. Byron’s strong love and passion for the living word reflects his countenance and his forever teachings and love for his ministry. Byron is a trustworthy shepherd, who through his counseling and knowledge of the scripture has touched and changed many lives in jail (Pod 6), which consists of 66 men and more than 30 have been touched by this godly shepherd.
The miracles that have happened under Byron’s leadership, prayer, counsel through Christ Jesus are unprecedented. The Lord is using this man in a mighty and tremendous way. 13 Men were baptized under Byron’s watch. He explained to the inmates about counting the cost of baptism, what it means, and the commitment these men would be publicly demonstrating. We all have personally grown in our walk with Christ, more than I ever have in my life under Byron’s discipleship.
My understanding of the Bible has increased 10 fold, more important my relationship has grown because of my greater depth and insight into the word. Byron has brought a light that has changed the hearts of so many men that struggle with shame, guilt, addiction, anger, and hatred toward God. The inmates refer to Byron as a modern day Paul the Apostle. A righteous man bold for Christ, peacemaker and a humble servant ready and willing to sacrifice himself for his, the Lord’s Sheep.
Byron is struggling with serious ailments unable to eat, he has lost near 50 lbs in four months and is not receiving the medical care he requires. Even through his long-suffering Byron presents his body as a living sacrifice on a daily basis for the Lord’s believers and for the advancement of God’s kingdom and gospel. Regardless, of his deathly ill symptoms he continues to encourage the body of Christ, the fellowship with courage and perseverance. The unity Byron has brought to this gang affiliated and violent environment is unparalleled. The Lord has truly blessed all of us with this man’s misfortune and we are grateful to the Lord for Byron’s wisdom, teachings, and counsel.
Genesis 50:20
“But as for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, in order to being it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.”
Below you will find the signatures of believers in Christ who share my most sincere sentiments and are also witnesses of the testimony written. We are all truly thankful and blessed for the teachings and loving leadership Byron has provided all of us through Christ our Lord and His Holy Spirit. May this letter find you well and we the brothers in Christ petition you for wisdom, understanding, grace, mercy, and recompense in your hearts. May the Lords Justice be done and not mans.
Peace and love in Christ,

