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About Us

OUR

PASTOR

REV. OMAR E. MONTE

September of 2012, Rev. Monte was commissioned by Bethany Baptist Church Makati as a tentmaker missionary to Milan, Italy. Over the next five years, through his leadership and God’s guidance, the mission work in Milan grew significantly. In 2017, the mission was formally organized into an independent Baptist church, and Rev. Monte was ordained to continue the work of the Gospel Ministry.

“A continent once lit with Gospel fire won’t burn again unless someone walks in holding the match of sacrifice. Europe needs the Gospel AGAIN.”

In 2022, Pastor Monte was further commissioned as a missionary to Europe based in Milan. Since then, he has held evangelistic services across Europe alongside the church’s mission team, spreading the Gospel to various countries while fostering a mission-minded congregation. Under his leadership, the church actively engages in soul-winning efforts, reaching out to share the message of salvation throughout Europe and beyond. His visionary approach has inspired the church to grow spiritually and embrace its role in supporting missions and spreading the Gospel. At present, the church is supporting nearly 100 foreign and local missionaries.

It was in 2024 that he graduated from Baptist Bible College with a degree in Associate in Ministry.

OUR

STAFF

The leaders and staff of Bethany Milan
Pastor

Omar E. Monte

Born on November 1, 1979, in Pioduran, Albay, as the fifth of eight children. In 2000, during his college years, he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior. Shortly after, he graduated from the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accountancy.

Together with his wife, Agnes, and their son, Samuel Gabriel, Pastor Monte remains steadfast in his calling to serve God and reach the lost. His visionary leadership has left impact in the church, inspiring them to take an active and intentional role in spreading the Gospel locally and internationally. Today, the word of God is being preached everyday through the ministries of Bethany Baptist Church Milan.

Pastor's Wife | Head of Publications

Agnes Cabrera-Monte

Agnes Marie Monte has dedicated her life to ministry alongside her husband, Pastor Omar Monte. Born on March 28, 1991, she pursued studies in Consular and Diplomatic Affairs at De La Salle - College of Saint Benilde before migrating to Italy on February 14, 2010. Though she did not immediately enter full-time ministry, she actively served in various church roles while supporting her husband’s mission work.

On September 14, 2012, she married Omar and became a missionary wife at the age of 21. For years, she balanced ministry, personal growth, and service, joining her husband in mission surveys to remote areas and assisting in church ministries while preparing for a deeper commitment to God’s work.

After a decade of service, she fully embraced full-time ministry in 2022, stepping into greater responsibilities within the church. She now serves as the Head of the Publication Ministry, writing training materials and tailored lessons for Sunday School, discipleship, and other church ministries in collaboration with her husband. She also works on curriculum development for ministry training, ensuring that each department receives structured and practical lessons.

Alongside her writing ministry, she leads the Ladies’ ministry, helping them grow spiritually and serve effectively. She has also previously served as the Head Teacher in the Sunday School Children’s Department and continues to support the church through administrative work behind the scenes.
After 11 years of marriage, she and Omar were blessed with their son, Samuel Gabriel, a testimony of God’s perfect timing.
She is set to graduate this year with an Associate in Ministry from Baptist Bible College.

Assistant to the Pastor | Missions Coordinator | Church Secretary

Krishalyn Bien

Krishalyn Bien was born on March 25, 1993, and migrated to Italy on September 4, 2004. She completed her studies at Istituto Professionale Alberghiero “Amerigo Vespucci” in Milan, graduating in 2011. Though she pursued her education in a new country, her most significant transformation came years later when she encountered Christ.

On October 2, 2016, Krishalyn accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior. A month later, on November 19, 2016, she followed in obedience through baptism. Eager to grow in her faith, she completed discipleship in 2017 and later deepened her biblical understanding by attending Bible school, where she graduated in May 2024.

Krishalyn is now actively serving in the church in various roles. As the church secretary, she manages administrative tasks and keeps church operations organized. She also assists the pastor in ministry work and serves as the missions coordinator, helping to expand the church’s outreach efforts.
Her journey from migration to ministry reflects a life shaped by faith, dedication, and service. With a heart for God and His people, Krishalyn continues to be a vital part of the church, using her gifts to serve and glorify the Lord.

Church Registrar

Bernadette Monte

Bernadette Monte’s journey is one of faith, dedication, and quiet service. She graduated from the University of Iloilo in 2003, and in 2009, she migrated to Italy, unaware that it would also be the year she encountered Christ. On August 30, 2009, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior while she was strolling in the park. It marked the beginning of a deeper purpose in her life.

On July 19, 2012, she married Raul Monte, Jr., and together they are raising their daughter, Athara Brielle in a Christian home.

Though she serves away from the spotlight, Bernadette plays an indispensable role in the church. As the Registrar, she ensures that church records and administration are well-managed, keeping everything in order. She also serves in the Finance Department, handling responsibilities with diligence and integrity. Her work may not always be seen on stage, but the church moves smoothly because of people like her—faithful, dedicated, and always ready to serve.

Head of Finance

Hermie Dela Cruz

Hermie Dela Cruz was born in 1975 and completed his Bachelor of Science in Accountancy at Lyceum Northwestern University in 1995.

In May 2011, he accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour and became the first member baptized in Bethany Baptist Church Milan. Since then, he has remained a faithful pillar of the church, being one of its earliest leaders, and he plays a vital role in both its spiritual and administrative foundation.

Currently, Pr. Hermie serves as the church auditor and legal representative, entrusted with overseeing the church’s finances and legal responsibilities with integrity and deep commitment. His leadership is marked by quiet strength, spiritual maturity, and unwavering support for the ministry.

He is married to Sis. Nelcy, and together with their daughter Chiara, they serve the Lord as a family — faithfully laboring for the Gospel and the local church they love.

Youth Director | Academic Counsellor

Joedel Delicana

Joedel Delicana has been a faithful servant of God and one of the pioneer members of Bethany Baptist Church Milan since its early days. He was saved in April 1988, beginning a lifelong commitment to faith and ministry.

He pursued his education in aviation, completing Aircraft Maintenance Technology in Manila in 1995 and earning his BSMT degree in Iloilo in 1997. In January 2005, he married Leonie, and together, they built a family with their two sons, Jeremiel and Joel.

He is also the first preacher in the church, laying the foundation for biblical teaching and discipleship. Known for his strong exposition of the Word, he continues to preach with clarity and depth, helping believers grow in their understanding of the Scriptures.

Joedel is one of the four key leaders in the church and currently serves as an Academic Counselor to the young people, guiding them to excel academically while remaining faithful in their service to God. His passion for both spiritual and intellectual growth has made a lasting impact on the next generation.

He is set to graduate from Baptist Bible College with an Associate in Ministry, further equipping himself for greater responsibilities in the church. His life is a reflection of his convictions—preaching truth, mentoring the next generation, and standing firm in the faith he has long embraced.

Transport Director

Nolimar Villegas

Born and raised in Malvar, Batangas, Philippines, Nolimar Villegas never imagined that his greatest journey would begin far from home. He migrated to Italy on December 7, 1998, building a life with his wife, Mercy Mercado, and their two children, Nomer and Maecy. For years, he lived unaware of the deeper calling God had for him—until May 24, 2018, when he came to know Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. That day changed everything.

Now, Nolimar serves with purpose and passion. As one of the church's group leaders and Transportation Head, he ensures that people can come together to worship and grow in faith. Beyond the local church, he also leads the Malta Outreach as Preacher-in-Charge, extending the Gospel beyond borders.

His life is a testimony of how God calls people in His perfect time—not just to believe, but to lead, serve, and make an impact wherever He places them.

Head Usher

Isagani Calosa

Isagani Calosa is a committed servant of God, faithfully serving alongside his family. He graduated from Jose P. Laurel Polytechnic College in 1996 and later migrated to Italy on April 21, 2001. On May 8, 2007, he married Irene, and they have been blessed with two children, Chelsie and Matthew.

His life changed on August 16, 2020, when he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Since then, he has dedicated himself to serving in the church. He leads as the Head of the Ushers Ministry, ensuring a welcoming and organized environment during services.

Beyond this role, Isagani is one of the four group leaders in the church, recognized for his dedication and steady presence. He is a pillar of the ministry, serving faithfully with his family and strengthening the church through his leadership and commitment to God’s work.

Visitation Ministry Head

Christopher Tolentino

Christopher Tolentino is a dedicated missionary and servant of God, actively involved in ministry and outreach. He graduated from La Salette University in Santiago City, Isabela, Philippines, in 1996. In 2000, he married Rowena Ramos, and in 2004, they migrated to Italy, where they built their family with their son, Jacob.

Christopher has served in various church roles over the years. He is the Head of the Visitation Ministry, leading efforts to reach out to church members and those in need of spiritual support. He is currently the Preacher-in-Charge in the outreach ministry in Poland, helping to strengthen the work there. Before this, he served in Bethany Baptist Church - Rome Outreach, contributing to discipleship and nourishment of the believers there.

As a missionary, Christopher also served in Palermo, where he faithfully shared the Gospel and led many to the Lord. Some of those he discipled and mentored continue to serve alongside him even after he moved to Milan, a testament to his lasting impact in ministry.

Alongside his mission work, Christopher is furthering his biblical education and is set to graduate this year with an Associate in Ministry from Bible College. His commitment to spreading the Gospel and strengthening believers continues to shape and inspire those he ministers to, both locally and abroad.

Discipleship Coordinator

Cyrene Alejo

Sir Cyrene Chris Alejo is a dedicated servant of God, committed to discipleship and evangelism. He married Danica Francesca Alejo on February 19, 2011, and later, while working in Dubai, UAE, he came to know the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ on April 25, 2014. He was baptized on May 16, 2014, at Bethany Baptist Church Dubai Mission under the leadership of Missionary Eduardo Pamintuan, who also discipled and trained him in ministry.

On June 20, 2018, he migrated to Italy, where he continued his service in the church. He is currently under the training and supervision of Pastor Omar Monte, assisting in various ministries at Bethany Baptist Church - Milan, Italy, as he continues to grow in leadership.

His primary ministry is serving as the Head of the Discipleship Ministry, where he focuses on mentoring and strengthening believers in their faith. He serves as a leader in the JOY Ministry (Just Over Youth), which ministers to church members aged 50 and above.

On May 20, 2024, he graduated from Bible College, further equipping him for greater ministry responsibilities. He now actively leads Bible studies both locally and internationally, including in Germany, ensuring that people from different places have the opportunity to grow in their faith.

Soulwinning Ministry Head

Sanjae Garcia

Sanjae spent part of his childhood in Cavite, Philippines, where he became active in church ministry by teaching children in his village. He came to know Christ as his personal Savior on June 1, 2010, which marked the beginning of his faith journey.

Seeking to follow God’s leading, he migrated to Italy in February 2022. He is currently leading the Soul Winning and Follow-Up Ministry in Bethany Baptist Church, Milan, where he is dedicated to reaching people with the Gospel.

He also pursued further biblical studies at Bethany Baptist Church Bible School in Makati and, Lord willing, is set to graduate in 2025.

With a heart for ministry, Sanjae remains committed to serving the Lord, sharing His Word, and growing in faith as he follows God’s plan for his life.

Church Custodian

Amado Tuazon

Amado Tuazon, known as Bro. Jun has been faithfully serving the Lord for decades, dedicating his life to both his family and ministry. He was saved in 1986, and after migrating to Italy in 2008, he continued his commitment to the church, completing all 16 lessons of discipleship and actively serving in various ministries.

Among his many roles, Amado is best known as the Church Custodian, ensuring that the house of God is always well-maintained and ready for worship. His dedication to keeping the church orderly and welcoming reflects his deep respect for the place where believers gather to serve and glorify God.

Beyond his custodial work, he is also involved in the Choir, Event Styling, Flower Arrangement, and Ushering ministries, using his hands not only to maintain but also to beautify the church. Married to Leonora Tuazon and a father to Justin Timothy Tuazon, he continues to serve humbly and wholeheartedly, seeing his work as an offering to the Lord.

Creative Head

Jayson Alvarez

Jayson Alvarez is a living testimony of how God transforms lives through faithful ministry. Born and raised in Isabela, he completed high school in 2009 before migrating to Italy in 2011. Though he had built a life in a new country, his greatest turning point came in 2014, when he was won to the Lord through the efforts of Christopher Tolentino. As a product of the bus ministry, he experienced firsthand the power of outreach and discipleship, which led him to accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

In 2017, he married Dinah, and together they are raising their two children, Jayden and Jillian, in a home rooted in faith. Over the years, Jayson has used his talents to serve the church, now holding the role of Creative Head, where he plays a key part in church media, visual presentations, and event organization.

His desire to grow in the Lord led him to step into preaching, making him the newest addition to the church’s preachers. He now shares God’s Word both in-person and through online Bible studies, helping to reach more people with the Gospel. From being reached by the bus ministry to now serving in the pulpit, Jayson’s story is a testament to God’s grace and the power of faithful discipleship.

Production Department

Danica Francesca Alejo

Danica Alejo is a devoted servant of God, balancing ministry, family, and faith. She graduated with a degree in Mass Communication from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila in 2006 and later married Cyrene Chris Alejo on February 19, 2011. In 2014, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, marking the beginning of her journey in faith and service.

In 2018, she migrated to Italy with her husband where they started their family. Together, they are raising their daughters, Arabella, Isabella, and Gianna Faith, while actively serving in the church.

Danica plays a key role in the church as the Head of Production, overseeing media and creative content for services and events. She is also one of the church translators, helping bridge language gaps to ensure that messages are clearly understood.

She and her husband are currently under training, seeking God's direction as they surrender to missions. She continues to serve faithfully, using her talents to support the ministry and glorify God in every opportunity.

Head of Musicians | Head of Media

Hannah Grace Tubid

Hannah Grace Tubid has been a committed member of Bethany Baptist Church Milan since its early days as a mission work. She was saved in 2012 and became part of the church in 2014, making her one of the first young people (YP) in its history. Known for her diligence, she has faithfully served in various responsibilities over the years.

In September 2013, she migrated to Italy, where she continued her studies while actively engaging in church ministry. She later pursued Veterinary Medicine at Central Luzon State University (CLSU) in the Philippines, completing her studies in February 2021.

Hannah currently serves as the Head of Musicians, leading and coordinating the church’s music ministry.Her passion for ministry and her willingness to take on responsibilities have made her a valuable part of the church family, always ready to serve with a joyful heart.

Social Media Manager | Archivist

Diamond Ontoy

Born on July 28, 1995, Diamond migrated to Italy on July 28, 2013, embracing a new chapter in her life. She got saved on July 19, 2020. As a pandemic believer, her faith was ignited during a time of uncertainty, and she fully committed her life to Christ. She was baptized on August 23, 2020, taking the next step in her spiritual journey.

On August 28, 2021, she married Chris Ontoy, and together, they continue to serve faithfully in the church. She plays a vital role as the church's Social Media Manager and Live Streaming Operator, ensuring that services reach members both near and far. Her dedication to media ministry helps extend the church’s influence beyond its walls, making the Gospel accessible to a wider audience.

Events Department | Reservation Staff

Irene Calosa

Irene Calosa experienced a spiritual revival in 2020, which led her to fully dedicate her life to serving God. Born on October 20, 1981, she pursued her education at Philippine Christian University before migrating to Italy on September 7, 2001. Though she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior on March 18, 1995, it was only after 25 years that she was able to return to God’s work.

On May 8, 2007, she married Isagani Calosa, and together they built a family. However, it was during the pandemic in 2020 that she experienced a renewed commitment to the Lord and joined Bethany Baptist Church Milan, where she began actively serving in the church.

Irene now serves as the Head of Event Coordinators, overseeing church gatherings and ensuring smooth and well-planned events. She is also part of the reservation staff, managing logistics for church activities, and serves as part of the pastor’s staff, assisting in church administration. In addition to these roles, she is involved in other ministries, where she continues to support the church and serve alongside her family.

Asst. Secretary | Procurement Officer

Golddeen Navarro

Golddeen Navarro migrated to Italy on July 28, 2013, unaware that years later, she would experience a life-changing encounter with Christ. On December 27, 2021, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, beginning a new journey of faith. Since then, she has completed discipleship training and continues to grow in her walk with God.

She actively serves in the Music Ministry and Choir, offering her voice in worship. She is also part of the Pastor’s Staff and Procurement Ministry, assisting in church operations.

Currently, she is a Bible School student in the Associate in Ministry program, preparing herself for greater service. From salvation to ministry, Golddeen’s life is a testimony of how God transforms and calls people into His work.

Children's Sunday School - Head Teacher

Afrrilyn Bien

Afrrilyn Bien’s journey of faith began when her sister, Krishalyn Bien, invited her to church. On December 11, 2016, she accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior, beginning a life dedicated to faith and service.

She completed 16 lessons of discipleship, strengthening her understanding of God’s Word. Over the years, she has taken on several leadership roles within the church, guiding and supporting various ministries. She serves as the Head Teacher for the Sunday School Children’s Department (SSCD), where she is responsible for teaching and mentoring young learners in their faith.

In addition to her work in Sunday School, Afrrilyn plays an active role in evangelism, follow-up, choir, home Bible studies, and visitation ministry. Through these ministries, she helps encourage spiritual growth, strengthen connections within the church, and reach out to the lost.

Music Director

Rolenso Castro

Rolenso De Castro’s journey of faith began at a young age when he was won to the Lord by his schoolmate, Jacob. Though he migrated to Italy in 2018, it wasn’t until 2021 that he fully committed his life to Christ, marking a turning point that shaped his path in ministry.

Now serving as the Head of the Music Ministry, Rolenso is known for his exceptional talent in arranging compositions and song leading. His deep understanding of music, combined with his ability to play both wind and string instruments, allows him to lead the congregation in worship through godly music.

He is also the youngest leader in the church, taking on a significant role in ministry at an early age. From being led to Christ as a student to now leading others in worship, his story is a testimony of how God raises and equips young people for His work.