Dr. Harold J. Sala, a beloved voice of Christian inspiration and guidance, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2024, at the age of 87. His life was a testament to unwavering faith and a profound commitment to sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world.
As the founder and president of Guidelines International Ministries for an extraordinary five decades, Dr. Sala leaves a profound legacy of Christian service. His daily five-minute radio program, “Guidelines for Living,” is the first and longest running daily five-minute program in Christian radio. The program, translated into over 25 languages in more than 100 countries, has touched the hearts and lives of millions across the globe, pointing listeners to the hope found in Jesus Christ.
“Dr. Harold J. Sala’s work has left an indelible mark on the world, inspiring countless individuals to deepen their faith and serve others,” said Troy A. Miller, President & CEO of the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB). “While we mourn the loss of this extraordinary man, we are also deeply grateful for the enduring legacy he leaves behind. His remarkable body of work will continue to provide Biblical encouragement and guidance to listeners around the globe.”
A tireless evangelist from a young age, Sala traveled extensively throughout his life, having shared the Gospel in more than 70 countries. Coming to faith when he was 12 and feeling a call to preach when he was 16, Sala became ordained at Bob Jones University and began preaching on weekends. He finished with a degree in English Bible by 18 years old. He and his wife Darlene were married in 1959 and spent their first year of marriage evangelizing in the U.S. and the United Kingdom.
In 1960, while serving as associate pastor of Calvary Temple in Denver, Colorado, Sala first became inspired by the success of short radio advertisements for their church’s Sunday school class. The concept of a concise, non-sermon-style Gospel message took shape.
After earning a Ph.D in Greek and Christian Education from Bob Jones University in 1963, Sala introduced the Guidelines program to a Los Angeles radio station, calling it “Guidelines, a Five-Minute Commentary on Living.” Its immediate popularity led to widespread syndication across the United States.
Sala began pastoring South Bay Bible Church in Redondo Beach, California in 1966 as the radio program gained momentum. In 1974, Sala joined the Far East Broadcasting Company (FEBC) in Manila, Philippines. This marked the pivotal moment of entering full-time into media missions, expanding the program’s reach to the Philippines, China, Russia, and Latin America.
Guidelines International Ministries established its headquarters in Orange County, California, in 1976. This began a fifteen-year television venture, “Guidelines for Family Living,” broadcast in the U.S. and the Philippines.
He authored 60 books, which have provided countless individuals a deeper understanding of Scripture and practical tools for living a Christ-centered life. Dr. Sala’s impact on the world is profound and enduring. His memory will forever be cherished by those whose lives he touched.
Today, Guidelines International Ministries offers a wide array of resources, including free Bible studies, devotional videos, and a growing digital platform for teaching materials. Their audio devotionals have been translated into more than 20 languages with 50 international radio station partners broadcasting the devotionals in over 100+ countries daily. Additionally, Guidelines distributes solar radios and audio Bibles and supports pioneering media ministries in places of gospel poverty.
Continuing her father’s legacy, president and CEO Bonnie Sala has transformed Guidelines from a U.S.-based radio ministry into a global ministry, propelling it into its next season of impact. She is the voice behind the daily “Reset” audio devotional, reaching audiences in the United States, the Philippines, Macedonia, Ukraine, Singapore, and throughout the continent of Africa.
Sala is survived by his wife of over 60 years, Darlene, three adult children, and many grandchildren. Guidelines will continue as a living tribute to Sala’s legacy, carrying his message of hope and faith to generations to come. To learn more about his life story and celebrate the continuing mission of Dr. Harold J. Sala, visit his legacy website: haroldsala.com.
Guidelines International Ministries has been an NRB member since 1977 and has received numerous NRB awards, including the 2014 Milestone Award and the 2021 Strategic Partnership Award. Dr. Harold Sala received the 2019 Radio Impact Award.
The prayers and support of the NRB family will remain with the loved ones of Dr. Harold J. Sala. Share a memory or read the reflections of those impacted by Sala’s life and ministry here.