This time of year, I often think about the families spending Mother’s Day and Father’s Day apart because of a parent’s incarceration. Holidays and other special occasions are often painful reminders of that family separation.
Did you know Prison Fellowship is working all year-round not only to connect hurting families but also to help people become the best parents they can be, even while in prison?
I recently read a beautiful story about an incarcerated mom named Shellie—an example of the growth and transformation that friends like you are making possible. Shellie is a participant in the Prison Fellowship Academy, a life-changing program that helps people embrace biblical values and find purpose. Here’s what Shellie wrote to us:
I always tried being there for my children and wanted to be the mother I didn't have. I never wanted them to feel unworthy and unwanted, and I thought I was doing a good job of it. Over the course of the Prison Fellowship Academy, I see clearly all the lies I carried around in my backpack that I told myself. I see where I fell short at being a good mother. But I learned that we don't know what we don't know. Because of this lesson—along with learning humility, empathy, and finding my true authentic self—things look different. I have three daughters, and one was my codefendant. I had apologized to her for my selfishness, but during this lesson, I realized I had more apologies to give.
I wrote a letter to my youngest daughter [and] chose not to mail it but to call her and read it to her. It was the best 20 minutes. I was able to apologize for my incarceration, for not teaching her how to do hair and make-up … but mostly for not being there the day she walked down the aisle to get married. For all the letdowns I had caused.
Her response to me was, ‘Mom, I already forgave you, but it means the world to me that you acknowledge my hurt that your actions have caused me. I'm also very proud of the woman you are today, and I love you.’
I am thankful for the Academy. It has given me self-worth. [I am] finding my true authentic self, and the woman I want to be in life. I'm better than yesterday ... not done yet!
Stories like Shellie’s are an amazing testament to the transforming power of Christ. Our brothers and sisters in prison are people with complicated stories, hopes, and fears—like all of us. And it takes all of us to make this ministry possible across the country.
Would you join me in praying for all those living behind bars today? If you feel led to volunteer with us, learn more here.
We can’t do this Kingdom work without you. Thank you for your ongoing support and prayers. If you would like to share a prayer request, please let our prayer team know.
Thank you for helping us seek justice, love mercy, and restore hope nationwide!
Serving Him with you,
HEATHER RICE-MINUS President and CEO
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