From the Inside - Messages from Inmates

So you gave up a Saturday to volunteer with C.H.A.R.M. and minister in one of the prisons in Texas.  Maybe your day entailed playing a few games of volleyball, eating in the prison cafeteria and participating in an afternoon church service. 

It was a day full of activity but by mid afternoon its time to start wrapping up and heading back to Houston.  For you it was a great day to hangout with friends and minister to an unknown brother or sister.  You actually think, "I can do this again" and you probably will. 

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However, have you ever stopped to think about the impact you're making on an inmate's life by giving up a Saturday? 
I can assure you the impact is huge!  But don't take my word for it.  C.H.A.R.M receives letters from our Christian brothers and sisters behind bars and we want to take a few minutes to share with you what they are saying.  In a recent letter, Richard C. Conner writes "Dear David, it is always a pleasure to hear from you and your kind words are much appreciated.  It is the support and encouragement of volunteers and mentors like you that are a huge part of the success of the IFI program.  I have been active in volleyball and softball leagues my entire life.  Coming to the Carol Vance Unit and being allowed to continue to participate in these things that I love is indeed a blessing.  Your ministry is an awesome opportunity for offenders to experience both the physical and spiritual fellowship all at the same time.  We always look forward to your visits here because we know you will bring an "A" game.   Maybe someday it will be 'A' game enough to even win.  We most enjoy the camaraderie and being able to spend the entire day with you; playing, praising and being with a group of Godly men from the world.  This is vital to our success."  

In another letter, Adam Shields writes "During my incarceration, I have seen many ministries come into the prison system and I have participated in many of them as well.  I have never seen any ministry such as C.H.A.R.M.  I figured it was going to be a bunch of old men that would hit the ball around for a few minutes and then sit down and talk.  The men that walked through the door were the farthest thing from my expectation.  They were not old but young, except for Robin.  It is such an inspiration to have a group of younger guys come in and really just hang out with us.  It is not very often that you see younger guys willing to give up their time to come in and spend time with a bunch of prisoners.  These guys were and are a true inspiration to myself and all the guys that hear their message."

As you can see, you are making a huge difference.  Don't stop!  "The Gospel is not about making bad people good, it's about making dead people alive!" There will be upcoming opportunities to minister again.  Check out the dates on our calendar and pick one.  Get your "A" game ready and prepare to minister in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. There's someone hoping that you say yes.