The California Prison Where Hope is Alive and Well

A recent Prison Fellowship Hope Event^® hosted at Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD) by Mariners Church lived up to its name, prompting many of the dozens of attendees to express their gratitude for God's redemption in their lives.

“I was a menace to society,” one prisoner admits of his life in the past. Now baptized in Christ and a regular member of praise, worship, and Bible study groups, he says, “It's a joy to be a part of that today.”

Another man incarcerated at RJD says, “I was a destructive, young, ignorant man.”

And still another prisoner adds, “I was a gang member and criminal.”

As all of these men attest, they at one time lived broken lives, repeating behaviors that led to destruction in their lives and communities.

But God has changed these men and many others. Through the power of God’s Word, worship, testimonies, and dedicated volunteers sharing their stories and encouragement, transformation is taking place.

These individuals once lived in darkness. They now live in hope.

Remember that former gang member? He now joyfully says, “For 15 years now, I’ve been serving the Lord, and today I am a completely transformed man, and it’s only by the power of Jesus Christ in my life.”

Hope is taking root and lives are being changed by the Gospel. Watch below to find out how God is using Prison Fellowship to restore lives and bring about incredible transformation.