PRISON FELLOWSHIP BLOG: In-Prison Stories

When tensions are mounting in a high-security prison, do words really have power to de-escalate fight?

Each time in prison was supposed to be her last. Jeannie understood why letters and phone calls to her son went unanswered.

For Anh, stepping into a California prison felt like the end of a long, dark road. She was stunned when a stranger told her the meaning of her name—and even more shocked when she discovered the secret to peace behind bars.

Tammy was surprised at the Academy participants’ dedication. “They began to truly care for one another, standing up for each other, encouraging one another. After all the conflict, I was so amazed and relieved.”

Create: New Beginnings is giving prisoners—and Prison Fellowship staff—a chance to experience God’s provision. “The weekend at Shakopee was a success … God was there, and He showed us His presence every minute.”

Raised by a drug dealer, Oscar had a wild childhood on the streets before he was incarcerated. After living under the influence for years, could Oscar become a positive leader in his community?

When people talk about prisoners being responsible, it’s usually in the negative sense of culpability. But in the Prison Fellowship Academy, every participant has positive responsibilities, like fulfilling their program commitments and supporting their Academy classmates. And that changes everything.

Drugs and fraud sent Brittany to prison, but God was waiting for her. “Prison would set the stage for the rest of my life,” she shares. Read on to discover how God redeemed Brittany from her past and gave her hope for the future.

Gilbert was raised in church but lived a double life as a gang member and drug dealer. When he was 21, his dealer turned on him. Betrayed, Gilbert’s world crumbled around him. Could his foundation in Christ give him a second chance?

A champion bareback rider and a wild horse named Sushi share the Gospel with Kentucky prisoners.