On a brisk late-February morning, Grammy-winning artist Lauren Daigle arrived at Folsom Women's Facility. Invited by Prison Fellowship^®, Lauren was here for a special face-to-face visit with the prisoners and a brief time of worship.

Folsom Women's Facility—yes, part of the same Folsom prison complex made famous by Johnny Cash—houses around 500 residents with five years or less remaining in their prison sentences.

The Folsom staff and Prison Fellowship made arrangements for Lauren to go deep into the prison to meet with the women in their "home," visiting with them in places few outsiders are authorized to go. Lauren and her tour crew brought light into dark corners of the prison and spoke directly with the women society often ignores.

For many of these women, hope can seem so far off, but God is near to the brokenhearted.

For many of these women, hope can seem so far off, but God is near to the brokenhearted.

LAUREN DAIGLE GOES TO PRISON

Many of Folsom's prisoners find healing and hope through art and music. They share their testimonies with each other, encouraging their fellow prisoners in their faith. Channell, a prisoner with a knack for poetry, often writes of her experiences behind bars. Her words reflect struggle, longing, and a sense of hope in Christ—all enfolded in the odd contradiction that even in prison, a person can feel free.  Fellow prisoner Julie has experienced that same freedom, too. "If it wasn't for [the support of] Prison Fellowship, I wouldn't have the testimony of hope that I share today," she said.

Nyeta, who began following Christ a year ago, shared, "Before prison, I had everything, but I was miserable. My grandma prayed for me every day. I finally realized that God could love even someone like me, after all I've done."

Around a prison dorm table, Channell, Julie, and Nyeta shared with Lauren about their experiences. They bonded over their mutual hope in the Gospel. It was amazing to see Lauren and the women light up instantly upon meeting one another and how their uplifting conversation flowed easily. For a few minutes, the setting didn't matter—these were four sisters in Christ encouraging one another.

Channell, Julie, and Nyeta were among scores of others who later gathered on the prison yard to worship God with Lauren Daigle. The singer beamed as she stepped up to the microphone. Her words of encouragement were a welcome gift. She thanked everyone for coming and asked, "What song do you want to hear first?"

HEAR FROM THE WOMEN OF FOLSOM

Channell, Rose, and Julie share their stories with Prison Fellowship.

CHANNELL'S POEM INSPIRED BY 'LOOK UP CHILD'