Dear John,

On this day when most of the country will be celebrating Valentine’s Day, I couldn’t be more thrilled to share with you the story of someone who epitomizes the love of Jesus and the change that comes when you give your life to Him. Ashley spent more than a decade as a meth addict. After landing in prison, she joined the Prison Fellowship Academy, which shows men and women in prison how the Gospel can transform their lives. After joining, Ashley realized she had to find another way to live, one focused first on God and not the opinions of those around her. Ashley shared:

“I got my worth from what other people thought of me. … [After joining the Prison Fellowship Academy] the main thing I learned was to get your value from Jesus. … He loves us, and He will meet us right where we’re at. And so if you carry that, and you know that, and you believe that—you’ve got it made.”

We’re sharing a piece of Ashley’s story today, but God’s not done with her yet. Ashley graduated from the Academy, is now out of prison and doing well, and she is going to be interning with Prison Fellowship. Ashley will be using her own experience to bring the hope of Jesus to help others who want to live productive lives outside the prison walls. What a gift it is to do this work with you!

Speaking of the hope of Jesus, we’re currently making plans to host Easter Hope Events across the country. We know that transformation starts with hearing the Good News of the Gospel. Dasahniel, an attendee at a recent Hope Event, wrote us to say, “It really encouraged me today. I came not expecting much but found hope. This was an everlasting impact, and I thank each and every one of you who came.”

Could I ask you to be praying with us that thousands of people in prison would be transformed through the Gospel message this Easter? We know that “the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective,” and we appreciate your faithfulness to join us in praying for all those in prison.

I have one more request of you. Second Chance Month is coming this April. Would you consider celebrating with us? Second Chance Month is our nationwide effort to raise awareness about the barriers faced by those coming out of prison and to unlock brighter futures for each one of them. There are a variety of ways to get involved, including hosting a Second Chance Sunday at your church or sharing your own second chance story. Join us for a month of celebrating second chances.

The lives we see being transformed every day are due to your faithful prayers and support of Prison Fellowship, and we are deeply grateful that you are with us in this work. I pray the Lord’s blessings on you and those you love.

In His Name,

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