I want to share an amazing story we received from staff at Camp RESET, a Prison Fellowship Angel Tree camp partner in Tennessee. At a recent week of camp, dozens of youth and staff gathered by the campfire for a powerful time of prayer. The presence of the Holy Spirit was evident as they spoke Scripture over one other and gave words of encouragement.
Laura, an Angel Tree camper who is in high school, rededicated her life to Christ after that powerful night. She’s now considering a career in full-time ministry.
Another camper, Lilliana, felt safe to open up about her pain. She struggles with knowing she may never see her earthly father outside of prison bars again. At camp, she formed a bond with one of our staff leaders, who became her mentor.
“What we witnessed this past week was life-changing,” said Tina from Camp RESET.
Angel Tree joyfully partners with the Church to mend relationships torn apart by incarceration. We want to see the cycle of brokenness end, and we envision a new legacy of faith in Christ to take its place—one Angel Tree child at a time.
For Angel Tree families, hope often starts with a Christmas gift, the Gospel, and a personal message delivered in the name of an incarcerated parent. As a long-time Angel Tree coordinator at my own church, I’ve seen the impact firsthand—not only at Christmas, but throughout the year. It doesn’t end in December! Angel Tree invites and equips congregations to enfold families into church life, building rich relationships that foster growth, support, and encouragement. Angel Tree bridges the gap for families all year long.
What does it look like to bridge the gap? It looks like church communities hosting Christmas parties and delivering gifts; volunteers pledging their time at local Angel Tree sports camps or summer camps; supporters cheering on boys and girls and praying with their parents and guardians. In our First Chance Network focus cities, we and our partners provide holistic services to families impacted by incarceration, including afterschool programs, youth groups, mentoring, STEM events, career readiness, and more.
If your church isn’t registered for Angel Tree, you can sign up here today. None of this would be possible without friends and supporters like you—thank you! If there is any way we can pray for you, please let our prayer team know.
Thank you for joining us to encounter Jesus with the incarcerated and their families.
Serving Him with you,
HEATHER RICE-MINUS President and CEO
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