All of January feels like the first chapter of a new book, doesn’t it? I love the sense of hope that comes with a fresh start. At Prison Fellowship, we celebrate this kind of hope all year round.
Right now, we’re praising God for the new beginnings that Angel Tree Christmas can bring to those incarcerated and their families. This past Christmas, churches in all 50 states delivered gifts, the Gospel, and a personal message of love to children on behalf of their parents behind bars, through home deliveries and Christmas parties. My family has had the joy of volunteering with Angel Tree for many years with our church. My daughters love to help, and it’s a great way to serve together. It opens doors to meeting families right in our community.
For thousands of families, Angel Tree brings so much more than a gift. It provides a special opportunity for parents to connect with their children, and their children can feel remembered and loved.
The first family we ever delivered gifts to is still a part of our lives today. We have had dinners and holidays together, and my daughters adore them! I even had the chance to drive this Angel Tree family to visit their dad in prison. They hadn’t been able to see him in 15 years, and it was a beautiful reunion.
Psalm 68:6 says the Lord “sets the lonely in families,” and I truly believe we see that in the stories of Angel Tree families—as loved ones connect with each other and with local churches. And it’s a joy to walk alongside families and encounter Jesus with them. I’ve been prayed over by Angel Tree families in my community, and in turn, I am so blessed and encouraged.
Angel Tree can make a difference all year, long after the last present is unwrapped. When families attend parties or receive deliveries, they learn there’s a church nearby that cares. Some begin to attend a youth group or Sunday school. Others discover additional means of church support, like a food pantry, tutoring, or simply a listening ear. And the Gospel is spread to families who need hope and healing in Jesus.
If you haven’t yet, learn more about Angel Tree today, and find out how it’s equipping churches like yours to walk with families impacted by incarceration all year.
We’re so thankful you are part of the Prison Fellowship family. Thank you for your support! If there’s any way we can be praying for you, please let our prayer team know. I look forward to sharing more with you soon.
Joyfully,
HEATHER RICE-MINUS President and CEO
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