As soon as I heard this story from our Prison Fellowship Academy in Oregon, I knew it needed to be shared. James, a young man in that Academy, says the program was a turning point in his life.
When James was in eighth grade, his father went to prison. James struggled with his father’s incarceration and battled depression throughout high school. Then, James had a son of his own—a few months before he wound up in prison himself.
James deeply regretted the choices that led him to prison. His biggest regret was leaving his son without a father at home, just as he had once experienced. But in the Academy, James realized that his choices didn’t have to define him forever.
“When I look in the mirror today, I see the person I’ve been wanting to become since a young age,” says James. “God is with us in these lessons, and He’s really moving with us through these lessons, teaching us and keeping us on a mindset of improvement and restoration.”
As the Academy helps James grow in faith and character, Prison Fellowship Angel Tree gives him a chance to be there for his young son, even from a distance. As you probably know, through Angel Tree, church volunteers deliver Christmas gifts to children on behalf of their parents behind bars. James signed up his son to receive a gift, and for the first time in a long time, he felt a little closer to his family—and closer to becoming the dad his child deserved.
James will be getting out of prison in just a few years. Thanks to the programs you support, he is becoming the good father and neighbor God created him to be!
“I’m going to be a brand-new man in freedom, being able to do things with my son, being able to hug him and be there for him,” says James. “This program is not just helping men, but it’s helping their families and the people around them.”
Angel Tree Christmas is right around the corner. I can’t wait! Local churches are getting ready to serve thousands of parents like James and their children. It starts with a gift, and it can lead to so much more. If you and your church aren’t currently part of Angel Tree, don’t miss out. You can register your church or learn more here.
Thank you for your generous prayers and support as we encounter Jesus with those in prison. Please let our prayer team know if there is any way we can be praying for you.
Serving Him with you,
HEATHER RICE-MINUS President and CEO
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