As Prison Fellowship celebrates our 40th anniversary, we are reminded how important our ministry partners are in bringing about transformation in the lives of prisoners, ex-prisoners, and their families. From in-prison volunteers, to prison officials, to local church ministries and transitional housing, there are many people that continue to “remember the prisoner” and seek to restore them to their communities.
In our most recent video blog, Denise Harris, Prison Fellowship’s field director in the Detroit area, shares about a celebration of Prison Fellowship’s 40 years of ministry, and the lives changed as a result. Donors, volunteers, and others who have supported the ministry in Michigan gathered at the Orchard Lake Community Presbyterian Church rejoice in lives changed and to look forward to the work to be done in the future.
As guests enjoyed a fine meal and good conversation, they were treated to the testimonies of two former prisoners who were grateful for the support and encouragement they received from Prison Fellowship during their incarceration. They also heard from State Sen. Pat Colbeck, who lauded the work of Prison Fellowship and said that he has been sharing about the effectiveness of the ministry’s programming with his fellow legislators.
For those in attendance, the evening was more than a celebration for the great things taking place—it was a sincere “thank you” to all of those men and women who make those things possible through their prayers, time, and financial support. It is with the help of those who have heeded God’s call to serve those in need that restoration occurs, and will continue to happen in the future.
There are many different ways to be a part of God’s work in prisons and communities. There are opportunities to lift up prisoners and families in prayer as a part of Prison Fellowship’s Prayer Team; to serve the children of the incarcerated through Angel Tree; to counsel and mentor prisoners in prison; or to prepare these men and women to return to their communities. To learn about these and other ways to work with Prison Fellowship, visit our action page.