WELCOME ADVENTURES IN ODYSSEY CLUB MEMBERS!
GROWING UP WITH A PARENT IN PRISON
We hope you enjoyed learning about Alicia’s experience with Angel Tree®, a program of Prison Fellowship®. Alicia’s sadness and frustration over seeing her father in prison is not unique.
When you are a child with a parent in prison, Christmas can hurt. Being separated during the holidays can cause a lot of loneliness and heartache for children who miss their mom or dad. Some children might also feel angry or ashamed because their mom or dad made bad choices and had to go to prison.
Prison may keep children and parents apart, but the relationship doesn’t have to be cut off. We know that Jesus came into the world to save and restore people who once were lost and broken. And, that’s what Angel Tree is all about.
"I realized [my mom] really was thinking about us … I could appreciate how much she loved us, and how sorry she was. And I believed God was working on her heart."
ISIS, ANGEL TREE CHILD
"I began to lie to my friends and make up stories about where [my dad] was. I was trying to push him as far away as I could ... [but] you can't ignore a gift. [Angel Tree] told me that he was still there, and he loves me."
ANDRIECE, ANGEL TREE CHILD
CONNECTING CHILDREN TO PARENTS AND JESUS
Angel Tree connects moms and dads in prison with their children through a Christmas gift. The gift is a way for the parent to say, "I love you, I'm sorry that we're apart, and I'll see you soon." This helps children know that their parent in prison remembers them and loves them, so their hearts can start to heal.
Angel Tree also makes sure children know that Jesus loves them, too, and families can learn all about Jesus in their own personal children's Bible—a free gift from Angel Tree to every prisoner's family.
Throughout the year, kids also have a chance to take part in Angel Tree Camping™ or an Angel Tree Sports Clinic, where they are lifted up by caring mentors and hear about Jesus' love, with many kids accepting Jesus into their hearts for the very first time.
WE HAVE A SPECIAL GIFT JUST FOR YOU
Don't miss this chance to receive your child-friendly free gifts—The eGift, which includes an eDevotional and stories, or the full package that adds a sticker book and ornament to the eGift.