Welcome back to Prison Ministry in 2010!

What will this year look like?  We as a team started off with a workshop and a retreat in January.  This was pretty exciting because we were able to meet all the different volunteers that you don’t normally meet during the year because we work in different prisons.  I do strongly believe that the Lord is going to do greater things this year as in previous years.  Why?  Because the ministry is now expanding and we also are starting our aftercare program this year. 

Stepping into “Big Shoes”

I feel that the Lord is also challenging me this year in a very profound way.  I was asked to take over the role of one of our most dedicated and best teachers.  She is helping with our aftercare program, so I am now responsible to teach classes on my own.  There are four different prisons where I will be working.  To step into someone’s shoes who has been in ministry for over a decade is a challenge.

Aftercare

There has always been a need amongst our students for an aftercare program.  A program that can go beyond the prison and also be a support when they are out in the community.  We build relationships with them over the years inside prison, but who supports them when they leave prison?  They face real challenges and we need to be there to support them as a church.  We are hoping that this year will be the year that we can establish our aftercare in the communities working together with different churches.  The idea is to have a Bible study in every community where they can turn to for spiritual support.  How are we going to do that?  We plan to engage with our leaders in churches who are willing to partner with those who came out of prison by hosting small groups and even meals for parolees in their neighborhood. 

Thanks and Prayer!

I am grateful to all my supporters for their faithful prayers throughout 2009.  I will also continue to pray for them, knowing that God can do great things in our lives.  In 2010, I would like prayer for the following areas:

For the weekend youth work in Grabouw.  We are developing a cycling program which will be very exciting.  I will send details later.
For the Prison Ministry of the Andrew Murray Centre and the challenges we face
For the inmates and their families as they journey toward restoration and healing

Henry Brown