“They say the truth sets you free, and it does,” reflects Audrey, “but first I had to go prison.”
Thirteen years ago, two journalists, one who had become pen pals with a prisoner on death row, created a book club called Free Minds in a D.C. jail. Today, about 940 juvenile prisoners have participated, and Free Minds has expanded outside of the jail, too, so members can continue to support one another through written word after release.
Jesus never told His followers to “keep the faith;” He taught us “go into all the world” and make disciples. When we allow our faith to become insular, we miss out on all the joy of serving others and seeing their lives transformed by God’s grace.
To go into prison is to be marked for life. Regardless of the time spent, the lessons learned, and the changes made, these men and women will forever be identified as prisoners—a “scarlet letter” firmly affixed upon them, and readily visible to all.
Let's deliver more hope to prisoners, former prisoners, and their families in 2015!
Edwin and his mentor, Rufus.
In 1988, arrested on assault charges, Edwin was forced to abandon his promising career in the military and trade in his army uniform for prison garb.
Looking back on his prison life, Edwin is clear-headed: “When I get asked questions … my standard answer is, ‘All things work together for good … it doesn’t say all things are good.’”
When most people talk about a “prison code,” they likely referring to an unwritten code of conduct amongst prisoners—one that lays out the expectations for how those behind bars are to behave, and one that defines what type of “inmate justice” might result if those rules are disregarded.
This is Benny's dream: helping former prisoners rebuild their lives.
Recently I was speaking at a conference in New York City and leading a panel discussion about men and women coming back to the community.
At a break, as others were filing out to get refreshments, a man came toward me.
Last week, Channel 4 News, WDIV Detroit aired a story about what it's like for these moms to be away from their children for years at a time.
On a recent broadcast of the Missions Radio program, Prison Fellowship President and CEO Jim Liske discusses the work of Prison Fellowship with host Ken Mitchell. During the hour-long program, Liske talks about the church within the prison walls, the importance of ministry to the families of prisoners, and churches creating “communities of restoration” for prisoners when they return to society.
When Israel was almost overcome by surrounding nations, Gideon and his 300 men encircled the enemy camp with torches hidden inside of earthenware jars. On a signal, they broke their jars, began to yell, and let their torches shine forth. The enemy army, convinced they were about to be attacked by a superior force, fled in confusion (Judges 7).
On Tuesday, the case of Holt vs. Hobbs went before the Supreme Court.
The case is brought by Gregory Holt, who is incarcerated in Arkansas and desires to grow a beard in accordance with his Muslim faith. Prison policy in Arkansas prohibits beards for security reasons.