Testimonials From Prison Inmates and Chaplains
Name of Chaplain: Dawn Daly-Mack
Name of Prison: Philadelphia Industrial Correctional Center and the Cambria Correctional Center (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Denomination of Chaplain: Nondenominational
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He rescued me!
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, New Testaments, Gospels of John, Tracts, Calendars, Post Cards
Background of Chaplain: I was saved as a child at the age of 13, but later turned to drugs and alcohol. I rededicated my life to Christ at the age of 23 and answered a call to the ministry. I was licensed in 1997 and ordained in February of 2002.
Current Ministry info: It is to women (750) and we also are in touch with their children and families.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Because I do not receive any funding for Bibles and literature for the women, it has been truly a blessing to be able to acquire these for them from BBFI. You are truly a Godsend!
Name of Chaplain: Roberto Rodriguez
Name of Prison: Otis Banton Correctional Center (East Elmhurst, New York)
Denomination of Chaplain: Protestant
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He is my Savior and Lord of my life.
Material received from BBFI: Little Bible Booklets, Tracts, Leaflets, New Testaments, Newsletters, Role Model Books, Tray Cards, Post Cards, Bookmarks
Current Ministry info: The ministry here is growing, because of the amount of services that we have in the facility from Monday to Sunday. Monday thru Thursday at 1 PM - Bible Study. Friday at 9 AM to 11 AM - Video Seminars. Saturday at 1 PM - Worship service takes place by Christian volunteers from different congregations. Sunday at 9 AM to 10 AM - Worship Service. Then at 10 AM to 11 AM - Bible Study. And at 1 PM to 2:20 PM - Worship Service. We also have retreat once a month.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Because of your vision thru your ministry and concern, inmates receiving your literature and other material have been help with their daily reading and attending to the chapel. When they get released, they go with desire to attend church outside, which is a victory and with a vision to continue serving the Lord Jesus Christ.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: As a chaplain, I make sure they get the material your ministry donates to us and I also teach Bible study and pastor the church here.
Name of Chaplain: Judith Silva
Name of Prison: Brooklyn Detention Complex (Brooklyn, New York)
Denomination of Chaplain: Protestant
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Lord, Savior, Creator, Redeemer, Liberator.
Material received from BBFI: Little Bible Booklets, Tracts, New Testaments, Newsletters, Role Model Books, Tray Cards, Post Cards, Bookmarks
Background of Chaplain: I am an African American, Native American (Eastern Pequot, Narragansett Indian, Cape Verdean) female chaplain who has been ordained since 1992 and called since 1985. My educational background includes a B.A. from Tuffs University, Medford, Massachusetts, Master of Divinity from Yale Divinity School, New Haven , Connecticut, and a Doctor of Ministry from New York Theological Seminary, New York, New York. I am certified as a Pastoral Psychotherapist. I have worked with Corrections for five years (2.5 on Rikers Island and 2.5 at Brooklyn Detention Complex).
Current Ministry info: I oversee the coordination and delivery of religious services for Protestant inmates awaiting sentencing in the borough of Brooklyn, New York. I also work together with administration, staff correction officials and community prison ministry leaders in services to the instution and its welfare. In times of need pastoral care is offered for inmates and families through counseling, prayer, worship, and presence.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? We recently received religious literature including 'The Good News Letter', Bible tracts, post cards, tray cards and bookmarks, plus copies of New Testaments in Spanish and English. These supplemented our supply received from the Gideons annually. As there is no budget per se from our department for religious supplies and resources, the offering of donations aids us to not have to spend from personal resources for supplying religious materials for the inmates which are surely needed. We appreciate the donations received for the benefit of our prison ministry.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: We are thankful for your donation of supplies and religious literature for the men of Brooklyn Detention Complex. May God bless you for the generosity in giving for His children.
Name of Chaplain: Gerhard and Sheryl Griesinger
Name of Prison: Mohave County Jail and Annex (Kingman, Arizona)
Denomination of Chaplain: Non-denominational
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Everything - All in All - Lord, Savior, Brother, Friend, God.
Material received from BBFI: Little Bible Booklets, Tracts, New Testaments, Newsletters, Role Model Books, Tray Cards, Post Cards
Background of Chaplain: We were "lukewarm" Christians until 5 years ago - very secure jobs and very worldly. Sold out to Jesus after a marriage crisis - left both our jobs, sold our home, and served Him exclusively for the last 5 years.
Current Ministry info: Awesome! We are seeing them actually discipled, not just coming forward then falling away! Each week we see many men and women either commit or recommit their lives to the Lord, and the ones in long term can't wait to hear the Word each week! The stories we have would take up pages! We preach the pure Word of God to them, and they are hungry for more of Him!
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? We are very cautious about the doctrine we present to the inmates, and I spent a lot of time reviewing the newsletters of Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc. for Biblical truths before requesting them. I believe the doctrine presented is true and not of anyone's personal opinion, and appreciate being able to give it to them in confidence that it won't vary from the Word. I have seen growth since we started giving out the newsletters, and that to me is a blessing!
Name of Chaplain: Orlando Jardim
Name of Prison: Southeastern Correctional Center (Bridgewater, Massachusetts)
Denomination of Chaplain: Foursquare
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? My Savior - My Lord - My all in all.
Material received from BBFI: Little Bible Booklets, Tracts, Leaflets, Bibles, Newsletters, Role Model Books, Videos, Tray Cards, Post Cards, Bookmarks
Background of Chaplain: I graduated from Southeastern College in Lakeland, Florida in '87 with a degree in Biblical studies. In 1990, I began working for the DOC as a correctional counselor and in December 1996, I became a full time chaplain. I'm a licensed minister in the Foursquare church and I'm an assisting pastor in my local church.
Current Ministry info: I supervise all the services and programs here at Southeastern Correctional Center. I lead the worship service on Sunday, counsel inmates on a daily basis, pray with them and visit those confined in segregation. I'm preaching and teaching the Gospel and making disciples and baptizing them.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Everything Bible Believers Fellowship donates to us is just another tool to share the Gospel and to help us reach the lost and edify the Body of Christ. Your contributions have been a great blessing to this ministry.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: Thank you for all you do for us.
Name of Chaplain: J. Don Jordan
Name of Prison: Sandhills Youth Center (McCain, North Carolina)
Denomination of Chaplain: SBC
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? My Lord, my Boss, my Savior, all the world, all that really matters.
Material received from BBFI: Little Bible Booklets, Tracts, Bibles, New Testaments, Newsletters, Role Model Books, Videos, Calendars, Tray Cards, Post Cards
Background of Chaplain: Grew up in Burlington, North Carolina. Saved at eleven. Started preaching at age 15. Pastored first church in high school with salary of $10 per week. Graduated Bible College, BRE. Full time pastor for 25 years. Full time chaplain for 10 years. Helped start several churches, camps, and Christian schools.
Current Ministry info: We have about twenty programs weekly, 200 volunteers who help. Programs include Bible studies, prayer meetings, fatherhood classes, ethics classes, choir practice, Christian discipleship classes.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? The donated materials are used regularly. A number of our former inmates are out preaching now. Hundreds have made a profession of faith here over the years. Some return to tell their story. Several are out now getting into Wheaton College, Piedmont Baptist Bible College, etc. to prepare for Christian ministry.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I love it. Great. Tremendous. PTC. Wow!
Name of Chaplain: Del Vande Krol
Name of Prison: Iowa State Penitentiary (Fort Madison, Iowa)
Denomination of Chaplain: Baptist
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He is everything!
Material received from BBFI: Little Bible Booklets, New Testaments, Newsletters, Role Model Books, Videos, Calendars, Tray Cards, Post Cards
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? The chapel program at any prison would be severely limited if it were not for volunteer persons and ministries - like Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc. - that support us. Many inmates, that will not talk with a chaplain, will receive literature to read. That material, with the aid of the Holy Spirit, has potential to touch that life for Christ.
Name of Chaplain: Veronica Benkman
Name of Prison: Women's Community Correctional Center (Kailua, Hawaii)
Denomination of Chaplain: Nondenominational
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? My Lord and Savior, a way of life.
Material received from BBFI: Little Bible Booklets, New Testaments, Newsletters, Role Model Books, Videos, Calendars, Tray Cards, Post Cards
Background of Chaplain: Have been serving the Lord full time for ten years - two years as a chaplain. I am married, have two sons - married, and six grandchildren. I have no income and no budget for the prison ministry, yet. The Lord has always provided. Praise God!
Current Ministry info: Administrator and supervisor of the chapel at WCCC and all personal or anything related to religious programs. Coordinate volunteers, conduct Bible Study scheduling, programming...
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc. have provided this facility with religious material that is beneficial to both the staff and residents at WCCC who are seeking God and the truth to life. Many hesitate to proclaim their faith openly in public for various reasons. Reading religious materials, including the Bible and other scriptural relating books offer the disbeliever to study alone with God in a non-hostile environment of their choice and keep them occupied in His Word after they do receive Him as Lord.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I am grateful for the support and fellowship in the Spirit and I am thankful to be a part of it all.
Name of Chaplain: J. Don Jordan
Name of Prison: Sandhills Youth Center (McCain, North Carolina)
Denomination of Chaplain: SBC
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Everything - He's Master of the Universe - My Savior and Lord, My King.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, New Testaments, Gospels of John, Videos, Little Bible Booklets, Calendars, Tray Cards, Post Cards
Background of Chaplain: Full time pastor for 25 years. Prison chaplain now for 16 years and part time supply pastor.
Current Ministry info: I have 100 volunteers who help me lead about 20 programs - Bible studies - Worship services - Prayer meetings - Christian Discipleship classes - Human Relations class - Maximized Manhood class - Set Free rallies - Concerts - Seminar extension - H.O.P.E. (Helping Other People Excel) - N.A. - A.A. We have several former inmates out preaching. Presently, we have 4 inmates who are preparing for the ministry.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Absolutely the materials from Bible Believers Fellowship have been invaluable in this ministry. The first contact with this population, ages 18-21, is usually with literature. Then they begin to attend the programs, they make decisions, become Christians, and then begin to grow and the literature is even then more valuable. I've been here nearly 16 years and we have had 16,000 inmates through this place in those years. Some of the most needy youth in in North Carolina and hundreds of them have come to Christ. We started out with 80% of our population making professions of faith. This percentage is down but overall it has been at least 50% of our population making public professions of faith. We realize some of these were not completely sincere but many were and almost weekly we hear from those who are doing well now.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: Thanks for the opportunity to share and support those who provide our support. Thank you for this opportunity.
Name of Chaplain: John Hagan
Name of Prison: Diagnostic Unit (Pine Bluff, Arkansas)
Denomination of Chaplain: Southern Baptist
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? "Everything".
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, New Testaments, Little Bible Booklets, Calendars, Tray Cards, Post Cards
Background of Chaplain: I became a prison chaplain in 1973 - was at a youthful prison setting (15-21 males) for 20 years - at a work complex unit for 3 years and presently at this unit (predominately a medical one) for 20 hours per week.
Current Ministry info: There are approximately 200 inductees who come to this unit every 2 weeks and are then sent to their permanent unit (great evangelistic opportunity). There is an average of 15-20 hospital patients (this is usually where a terminally ill inmate dies). About 150 inmates in some type of serious treatment (dialysis, severe diabetic, cancer, etc.). Great need to be a shepherd.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Most chaplains I know have no funds allocated to them to purchase religious materials. The materials we get are all donated. To many who are coming to prison now - this will be the first time to read a Bible. For some this will be the first time to slow down and want something different in their life - some are tired of the bad decisions, and the prison setting, and don't want to come back. The word "sin" is beginning to make sense to some and they are looking for answers. Bibles and other Christian materials that are contributed by Bible Believers Fellowship are the "seeds" for God's power and grace to get into lives for behavioral change and spiritual peace.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: Thank you for helping us to work in this mission field of America.
Name of Chaplain: Tom Wright
Name of Prison: Piedmont Regional Jail (Farmville, Virginia)
Denomination of Chaplain: Southern Baptist
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? My all - my Savior.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, New Testaments, Calendars, Tray Cards, Post Cards
Background of Chaplain: Good News Jail and Prison Chaplain. Seminary student. Married with 3 sons.
Current Ministry info: Chaplain and pastor to inmates and staff, counselor, teacher. Recruit volunteers for Bible study. I raise funds like a missionary.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Religious material - 325 inmates but 3,000 in a year.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I have plenty of Spanish Bibles at present, however I have no Spanish books. Greatest need at present is videos!
Name of Chaplain: Stiemy Williams
Name of Prison: Howard McLeod Correction Center (Atoka, Oklahoma)
Denomination of Chaplain: Assemblies of God
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He is my Savior, my life support.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, New Testaments, Videos, Little Bible Booklets, Calendars, Tray Cards, Post Cards
Background of Chaplain: I was once deep in sin and God saved me just in time. Since my conversion, I have been in deep pursuit of God. The position I now have is God's doing. To be a chaplain in Oklahoma requires a Masters Degree. I do not even have a B.A. I'm thankful that God allows me to work for Him.
Current Ministry info: I just try to follow the Lord Jesus the best I can. In doing so I preach about what I've experienced, the saving power of the Lord. I love to share with the inmates the great revivals of past and even the revivals of today like Bronsville Assembly of God in Pensacola, Florida.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? I'm new in my position and have just received some of the information and Bibles, literature, and tapes that have been delivered. We greatly appreciate it. We are always in need of materials that will enable to keep these men from coming back to prison.
Name of Chaplain: Elaine Babcock
Name of Prison: Philadelphia Industrial Corr. Center (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania)
Denomination of Chaplain: Nondenominational
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? My Lord and the center of my life.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, New Testaments, Gospels of John, Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets, Calendars, Tray Cards, Post Cards
Background of Chaplain: Life of drugs and prison, saved at 30. Been in this facility for 14 years as chaplain (age 52).
Current Ministry info: It is to women (500) and we also are in touch with their children and families.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? What a blessing it has been to give so much to the women. We get no money from the prison to buy Bibles, etc. Please keep on doing what you are doing. I see many women (and men) come to know and understand the Lord and the Bible because of you.
Name of Chaplain: Gayle Dean, Jr.
Name of Prison: Swanson Corr. Center for Youth (Monroe, Louisiana)
Denomination of Chaplain: Southern Baptist
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? The Lord and Master of my life - my divine Savior.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, New Testaments, Videos, Little Bible Booklets, Calendars, Tray Cards, Post Cards
Background of Chaplain: Surrendered to preach at the age of 15 years, pastored since age 19 years. Most of my ministry has been in bi-vocational churches. Pastored churches all over the state of Louisiana. Preached in churches in Arkansas, Mississippi, Texas, Oklahoma, Florida, and Germany. Have worked in this position for 10 years.
Current Ministry info: Came to work for the Dept. of Corrections at this campus on February 16, 1990. At that time we had 265 males and 35 females on campus. We have since assigned the girls to J.C.C.Y. in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and have added a Mental Health Unit in addition to housing maximum security offenders. I have had the privilege of baptizing several offenders and seeing 4 young men enter the ministry.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? We have received your newsletters for the past 3 years and the offenders are glad to have them to read. They also enjoy receiving books on Samuel Morris, since 90% of our offenders are black.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I thank you very much for including us in your ministry and we would appreciate additional materials in the future, as you are able to donate to us.
Click here for photo of Dr. Gayle Dean, Jr.
Name of Chaplain: Stephen Ford, Sr.
Name of Prison: Brunswick Correctional Center (Lawrenceville, Virginia)
Denomination of Chaplain: Full Gospel Baptist Fellowship
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? More than life itself.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, New Testaments, Role Model Books, Little Bible Booklets, Videos
Background of Chaplain: I am an Afro-American, a graduate of the University of Maryland and the School of Theology of Virginia Union University. I am retired from the United States Air Force and the Virginia Department of Corrections and Co-Pastor of Faith Chapel Church in Lawrenceville, Virginia.
Current Ministry info: I am chaplain here and at Mecklenburg Correctional Center with a total population of over 1,600 inmates. I have a full service ministry with revivals, baptisms, counseling and other services. I coordinate all of the other religious organizations, i.e.. Jehovah Witness, Catholic, Seventh Day Adventist but I am unmistakably a Christian minister.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Yes, in many ways.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: Please continue to donate your materials.
Name of Chaplain: Dennis Durant
Name of Prison: North Florida Reception Center-West Unit (Lake Butler, Florida)
Denomination of Chaplain: Christian & Missionary Alliance
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Jesus is my personal Savior and Lord. I have been born again since June 1973.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, New Testaments, Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets, Calendars, Tray Cards, Post Cards
Background of Chaplain: I worked eight years with Pan American Airways as a trainer. I was never fulfilled and felt something missing. In June 1973, while in New Zealand, I heard the Gospel message, returned to my hotel, began reading the Epistle to the Romans, and accepted Jesus Christ as my Savior and Lord. I returned to school and graduated from Alliance Theological Seminary (M. Div.). I have pastored churches, worked with a Hebrew-Christian mission, then began ministry as a chaplain at N.F.R.C. in 1991. I believe this is where the Lord has called me to share the Gospel.
Current Ministry info: Every morning, Monday through Friday, the inmate (clerk, librarian, and custodian) and I have morning devotions before beginning work. We pray for one another, as a team, to be effective for the Lord in ministry. Each morning, following devotions, we have an evangelistic presentation (usually a Bible study, sometimes a video or interactive Bible study video). Afternoons are given to discipleship and specialized services (Muslim, Jehovah Witness, Catholic) led by an imam, priest, etc. The office door is opened late mornings and during afternoon "open house" for counseling. Every third Sunday I preach God's Word at both the West and Main Units of N.F.R.C.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Bible Believers Fellowship has been instrumental in providing key Gospel materials and Bibles to present to the more than 1,000 men transiting North Florida Reception Center monthly. The evangelistic outreach to these inmates depends upon Bibles, tracts, audio tapes, and videos to present the Gospel and then to give the inmates at North Florida Reception Center materials for follow-up. Your labor of love is greatly appreciated. With more than 1,000 men transiting our facility monthly, we sometimes run out of Bibles and the excellent materials which show them the Way of life. Please convey our thanks to the contributors of Bible Believers Fellowship - you truly are partners in the Gospel (Philippians 1:3-6).
Name of Chaplain: Oscar McLaughlin
Name of Prison: Hudson Correctional Facility (Hudson, New York)
Denomination of Chaplain: A. M. E. Zion
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He is our Lord and lived a perfect life before submitting to the Father's plan to save me from all my sins.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Bibles, New Testaments, Role Model Books, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets, Videos
Current Ministry info: We are a facility of 500 roughly. Some of the men enroll in our maximized manhood class that is a Christian education program teaching men how to implement Godly principles based on the example of Jesus Christ. We also have men attending evening Bible studies 6-7 nights per week.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? We are in need of many printed materials especially Bibles. Many of the men here do not stay very long so our on-going projects need resources to be replenished. We especially appreciate the Spanish materials [donated by BBFI] that many ministries can not help us with.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: We are relatively new, but the materials we've received [from BBFI] were right on the mark! What else would any believer "expect"! Praise the Lord!
Name of Chaplain: Jesus Malave
Name of Prison: M.C.I. Shirley Minimum Facility (Shirley, Massachusetts)
Denomination of Chaplain: Church of God
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Eternal Life
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets
Background of Chaplain: I am ordained by the Church Of God - 1979. I have been a volunteer ever since 1975. As a state chaplain since 1987.
Current Ministry info: I only have 20 house per week to accomplish my ministry. The most busy days are Saturdays and Sundays. Bible Studies. Full Services. Volunteers participation. (Not families)
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Yes. For years, Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc. have play a big role in my ministries and many other ministries with Bibles and literature, newsletters, everything is a blessing. The inmates look forward for your newsletter. I don't have any means of financially helping you. However, I urge people to help maintain such a wonderful and blessed ministry. Please donate some Spanish Bibles. My flock consists of 40% Afro-American, 35% Spanish, 25% Anglo American and others.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I do recommend Bible Believers Fellowship to continue this wonderful work for the Lord Jesus Christ. You can count on my prayers.
Name of Chaplain: Kathy Ray
Name of Prison: Lake City Correctional Facility (Lake City, Florida)
Denomination of Chaplain: Nondenominational
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? My Savior, my sustenance.
Material received from BBFI: Little Bible Booklets, Bibles, Newsletters, Tracts, Videos, Role Model Books
Background of Chaplain: I'm 43 years old. I was saved when I was 22. I have been through many trials and tribulations. Through these things I have seen the supreme power of God. Trials are a blessing when we are able to see God move in ways that are beyond our understanding.
Current Ministry info: I do a lot of one on one counseling. I also preach and plan special programs with outside guests. I also coordinate all the volunteers at the facility. I minister to 350 young men ages 19 to 24. There are about 200 Afro-Americans, 140 Caucasians, 7 Spanish, and 3 Orientals.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? My ministry has greatly benefited from Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc. Some people send outdated "Bread of Life" booklets to the inmates and others items which do not minister to this age group. Outdated material is really an insult to these fellows.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I would like to help with ideas and comments whenever I could. Many of these young men are poor readers and have a short attention span. Christian books in a comic book format would reach a great multitude.
Name of Chaplain: Veronica Benkman
Name of Prison: Women's Community Correctional Center (Kailua, Hawaii)
Denomination of Chaplain: Nondenominational
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? My Lord, my life, my Savior, my joy, my hope.
Material received from BBFI: Little Bible Booklets, New Testaments, Newsletters, Tracts
Background of Chaplain: I have been at the Women's Community Correctional Center in Hawaii for only a short time. I have been a minister P/T for 20 years, full time for 10 years, and a chaplain for eight months. I am with the Family of the Living God Church and considering applying with the Good News Prison Ministry.
Current Ministry info: God is good. He is working wonderfully with the women here. All things are possible. Many are being saved. He is sending His servants to us and providing everything in abundance. The women are ministered through group Bible studies, worship services, 1/1 Bible study and counseling, special programs, videos, music, etc.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? My ministry here at WCCC has benefited from Bible Believers Fellowship's support through newsletters, Bibles, and tracts that they donated prior to my chaplaincy. Since I became chaplain, they have faithfully donated newsletters in English and Spanish. Together with the joint effort of all, His servants including BBFI, God is saving and preserving souls each day. To Him be the power and the glory - now and forever.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I am thankful to be supported by BBFI. The literature they donate helps minister the truth to the ladies in ways they can relate. And that is what it's all about, working together for the good.
Name of Chaplain: Dennis West
Name of Prison: Bent County Correctional Facility (Las Animas, Colorado)
Denomination of Chaplain: Church of Reformation Movement
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Son of God, Savior, Lord, Redeemer, Sanctifier.
Material received from BBFI: Little Bible Booklets, Role Model Books, Newsletters
Background of Chaplain: After 30 years of Pastoral ministry, the Lord opened the door for me to come to BCCF prison to serve as chaplain.
Current Ministry info: I am responsible for 720 male inmates. I set up the meetings for each religious group, lead a Bible study, counsel inmates, promote the need for churches on the outside to stand in the gap on behalf of inmates by working with the inmate's family. I am hoping to see a mentoring ministry begin for inmates who are released. I'm also responsible for the religious library including cassette tapes, videos, 3 recorders, 1 overhead, etc. I am only an instrument in God's hands learning how to be useable for Him.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? I feel prisoners need to have a balanced understanding of God's Word. Bible Believers Fellowship provides that balance that enables prisoners to obtain a whole knowledge of the Word of God and of the Christian life. Hearing, seeing, and reading the Word. Hearing and seeing how it changes lives is a constant encouragement to inmates. Many of these men are responding to the call of God on their lives to preach and teach the Good News. They have 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to get the Word of God in them and they want any good material they can lay their hands on.
Name of Inmate: Parker (he asked us not to give his last name)
Name of Prison: James V. Allred Unit (Iowa Park, Texas)
Denomination: Body of Christ
Are you Born Again? Yes
If so, please state date: January 1997
Please tell us what Jesus Christ now means to you and how He has changed your life: Jesus is my Savior, Lord, and Master of my life. I have fully submitted my will to His will and my desires for His desires for my life. I am learning to be a branch that abides on His vine - to establish a daily relationship as one would with a best friend or spouse. Jesus is my life, I have died to myself by spending time in prayer or His Word rather than socializing a lot - this has led to persecution and made me somewhat of a pariah, but I rejoice because I know that Jesus is real or Satan wouldn't attack me so hard.
Material provided by BBFI that has been a blessing: "The Good News Letter"
Convictions: Homicide
Background of Inmate: I am a Japanese American born in Los Angeles. I have had two years of service in the U.S. Army Infantry. I have a degree - Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering. I have been diagnosed as manic-depressive (or bipolar illness). I worked as a computer network analyst for 8 years before my arrest.
Info on Family: Parents and younger sister.
Type of Current Facility: Maximum security.
If Bible Believers Fellowship has helped you in your walk with God, please state how: Bible Believers Fellowship has helped me to trust in the Word of God rather than the interpretation of man. God through His Holy Spirit reveals to each individual an understanding of scripture related to God's will for that person. I like the way that you wrote about the Prosperity Gospel - sometimes I wonder just who is being edified and worshipped, God or man. Your newsletter gets to the absolute core of an issue or topic, basically the truths spiritually discerned.
Name of Chaplain: Luis Mendez
Name of Prison: State Corr. Institution - Graterford (Graterford, Pennsylvania)
Denomination of Chaplain: Protestant
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Life, Peace, Love, Forgiveness, Fair, Power.
Material received from BBFI: Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets, Role Model Books, Newsletters
Background of Chaplain: I'm a bilingual chaplain, who deals with both the Hispanics and English. Only by His grace I've been called to work in the Correctional Department. I have a B.A. in theology, seven years in the ministry and work in Bensolem Youth Development also as a chaplain.
Current Ministry info: I preach and teach the Bible, administer Holy Communion, baptize and even marry if the situation is appropriate. I deal with all different areas in the prison, Death Row, Lifers, special needs, forensic unit, and also counsel drug and alcohol inmates.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ. I deal with a population close to four thousand inmates and your contribution is a great one in trying to reach so many inmates. There is an area in the prison called the Hole where they are isolated and can't go any where. When I go and attack the devil by spreading Christian literature and present the Savior, there is a great need here with Hispanics and also the English speaking population.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: My Dear Brother, we could use all the help we can get. Spanish Bibles are greatly needed around these revolving doors and also a variety of different literature.
Name of Chaplain: Kathy Ray
Name of Prison: Lake City Correctional Facility (Lake City, Florida)
Denomination of Chaplain: Nondenominational
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Redemption - My Savior - Lover of my soul.
Material received from BBFI: Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets, Role Model Books, Newsletters
Background of Chaplain: I was born on 4-15-56. My husband is also a prison chaplain. I work for a private prison, Corrections Corporations of America. It has over 60 prisons worldwide. I love bringing young men to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
Current Ministry info: I preach once a month. Volunteers preach on the rest of the Sundays of the month. I visit the dorms and confinement. I tell the inmates of the death of a loved one. I also do a Tuesday night Bible study. Most of them are kind to me and ask wonderful questions.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? The videos and tracts have helped the most. These young men also enjoy Christian cartoons and Bible dramas. They will watch any Christian video before they will read a Christian book. Also, they like Christian comic books or tracts in a comic book format. Many of these young men have between 1 to 4 children, by 1 to 3 different women. They make choices without thinking of consequences. Any material donated will be well received by 95% of them.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: Lately, men are walking up to me in the hallway asking how to be saved. The Spirit of God is moving here. I also need prayer support.
Name of Inmate: Lindsey Tino Johnson
Name of Prison: East Jersey State Prison (Rahway, New Jersey). Transferred to the Forensic Psychiatric Hospital (Trenton, New Jersey) in October 1998.
Are you Born Again? Yes
If so, please state date: May 6, 1996
Please tell us what Jesus Christ now means to you and how He has changed your life: First and foremost: the gift of God is eternal life. God makes it plain in His word that we obtain eternal life - that we are saved - merely by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ. It is a matter of simple faith. "He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him" (John 3:36 KJV). I denied myself of the things of this world and accepted Jesus Christ as my own personal Lord and Savior. Amen.
Material provided by BBFI that has been a blessing: "The Good News Letter"
Convictions: Threaten Charges, Petty Theft, Attempted Robbery, Attempted Bank Robbery
Background of Inmate: I've been in and out of reform schools, city and state mental hospitals, city and state prisons, ever since I was the age of nine. I had my first drink of alcohol at age six. Never completed the third grade of public school.
Type of Current Facility: Maximum security
If Bible Believers Fellowship has helped you in your walk with God, please state how: When I was serving time at Mid-State Correctional Facility back in 1995 and 1996, at church services one Sunday afternoon, I picked up "The Good News Letter." As I started reading what the Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc. was witnessing over to me, my entire life changed. I cannot really express everything. But ever since that period, I started forgetting about myself, and put God first in my life. And I still read "The Good News Letter" today. Praise the Lord.
Comments, if any: I forever thank the Lord for being alive one more precious day. I pray for all people to accept Jesus Christ as their own personal Savior.
Name of Inmate: Michael Sellers
Name of Prison: Federal Correctional Institution - Lompoc (Lompoc, California)
Denomination: Raised Seventh-Day Adventist
Are you Born Again? Yes
Please tell us what Jesus Christ now means to you and how He has changed your life: Jesus is all the world to me, my life, my joy, my all. He is my friend whom I can talk with and no one else will hear the conversation. Jesus is like a buffing machine. He polishes me until I am shining and clean.
Material provided by BBFI that has been a blessing: Newsletters and tracts
Background of Inmate: I am from North Carolina. Now I live in California. Age 36. Black male. Most of my life I have lived a criminal and drug abuse lifestyle - social rule breaking, committed variety of criminal offenses - theft, forgery, fraud, and drug offense. My thinking pattern was criminal. I sought to mollify my behavior by blaming problems on external circumstances - making excuses for my behavior, pointing out unfairness in the world. Cognitive indolence, lazy in thought as in behavior, trying to take shortcuts. Discontinuity, I had difficulty maintaining focus because of being easily influenced by events and situations occurring around me, having difficulty following through on initially good intentions.
Info on Family: Three sisters, one brother. Mother and Father passed away.
If Bible Believers Fellowship has helped you in your walk with God, please state how: Through Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc. I've built a foundation, a sense of unhappiness with my past criminal behavior, and criminal thinking, and replacing them with a sense of responsibility and development of empathy for others. I am learning to think in ways that are rational, realistic, and responsible. Most of all, I found Jesus.
Name of Chaplain: Chaplains Cook and Newkirk
Click here for photo of Michael Sellers.
Name of Chaplain: Gerald Silliman
Name of Prison: Hiland Mountain Correctional Center (Eagle River, Alaska) and Palmer Correctional Center (Palmer, Alaska)
Denomination of Chaplain: Assemblies of God
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He is the Savior of my soul - soon coming King.
Material received from BBFI: Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets, Role Model Books, Newsletters
Background of Chaplain: Have ministered in Alaska over 30 years - ministered in village and rural area - helped pioneer church, etc. - Bible school teacher - is an ordained Assemblies of God minister. Other ministry include Men's director at the Alaska Teen Challenge in Palmer, Alaska. Kids camp director at Little Beaver Lake Camp in Big Lake, Alaska for the Alaska District of the Assemblies of God. Teacher and administrator at Far North Bible College in Anchorage, Alaska. Served as Minister of Christian Education at Wasilla Assembly of God in Wasilla, Alaska and Kingsway Assembly in Eagle River, Alaska. Served over five years at the Alaska Central Section Christian Education representative. Prison Chaplain for Eagle River, and Palmer Men's Prisons. Served as the Instructional Consultant for Village Bible Training Circuit. Assistant Director of the Christian Education Department for the Alaska District of the Assemblies of God.
Current Ministry info: Hiland has about 300 inmates. It is a Men's and Women's prison. Palmer has about 450 men. It has a maximum side and a medium side.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? The video and the tracts that you have given us are GREAT! The inmates are excited about the new material. I thank God for people like you.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I pray that God continues to bless your ministry and all people associated with it. Once again, I thank you in the name of Jesus. Keep up the good work!
Click here for photo of Chaplain Silliman.
Name of Inmate: Tom Wilmas
Name of Prison: Originally at Moberly Correctional Center (Moberly, Missouri). Tom is now at Northeast Corr. Center (Bowling Green, Missouri).
Denomination: Christian
Are you Born Again? Yes
If so, please state date: In prison in 1989
Please tell us what Jesus Christ now means to you and how He has changed your life: Jesus means to me a daily adventure, taking me to higher heights of intimacy with Him and taking me to new frontiers of my heart. Always challenging me to trust Him in uncertainty. I see beauty in all He has created, and I can't get enough of Him.
Material provided by BBFI that has been a blessing: "The Good News Letter," "La Carta De Buenas Nuevas," Tracts
Convictions: Armed Robbery, Kidnapping
Inmate's Explanation: My life was a long string of failures until my character came completely unraveled and I robbed a hotel, kidnapped and assaulted a clerk: was given two life sentences.
Background of Inmate: A mess! Until Jesus stepped graciously and mercifully into my heart. My 16 month old daughter was murdered while in my first year of prison. At sentencing, I was told there was no redemptive value to my life: they didn't see Jesus in my future, I guess.
Info on Family: They're wonderful, faithful to supporting me, and my Dad is born-again also.
Type of Current Facility: Maximum security.
Explanation, if any: The severity of my crime states I have to be in a high security facility.
If Bible Believers Fellowship has helped you in your walk with God, please state how: I am fed by the non-traditionalist way Anne and her husband bring forth the relevance of God's word. Their newsletters in Spanish help me to witness to Latino inmates who do not speak English, but are in need of encouragement and hope. The newsletter is an iceberg breaker between different cultures, tongues and peoples. I'm sure Jesus approves of their ministry, which tells me others should be a greater part of this outreach.
Comments, if any: I send the "Spanish newsletter" to Latino friends in South and Central America when I am through with them. The newsletter is having a global impact for Jesus. Keep up the faithful work.
Click here for photo of Tom Wilmas.
For the testimony of Tom Wilmas in English, click here.
For the testimony of Tom Wilmas in Spanish, click here.
Name of Chaplain: Dr. Gayle Dean, Jr.
Name of Prison: Swanson Correctional Center for Youth (Monroe, Louisiana)
Denomination of Chaplain: Protestant
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He provided my salvation and leads me each day of my life.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets
Background of Chaplain: Called to preach at age of 15 years, present age 61, active in supplying and preaching as asked. Have a B.A., Th.M. & D.D. Lead volunteers on our campus from 10 different denominations.
Current Ministry info: As Chaplain/Volunteer coordinator, I plan and schedule all religious programs and groups who come to our campus. Choirs, Chapel services (2) each Sunday a.m., Sunday school classes in all 12 dorms and Bible Studies 1 night each week in each dorm. Arrange birthday parties each month in all dorms. Arrange Pastoral visits for offenders from their pastors as requested. Plan monthly calendar of activities for above. Other activities as requested by staff and administrators.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Yours is one of two ministries that contribute items that I can take to our maximum security dorm for distribution to offenders. Our youths range from 13 - 21 years of age and many have had little or no contact with the church on the outside world.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I appreciate very much your contributions and help in supplying materials to our offenders. I am very happy to share your materials with these young offenders, who look forward to their arrival.
Name of Inmate: Troy E. Sullivan
Name of Prison: Jackson Correctional Institution (Malone, Florida)
Denomination: No denomination
Are you Born Again? Yes
If so, please state date: December 25, 1983
Please tell us what Jesus Christ now means to you and how He has changed your life: Jesus has given me a new birth, a new life, a resurrection from the dead and has given me peace in my heart and love for His Father, God. Jesus has removed the scales from my eyes and hardness from my heart. Jesus has given me a faith and hope I never knew before, an eternal faith and hope, and the joy that comes from knowing He is always interceding in my behalf before His Father's throne. He has created a new man of me!
Material provided by BBFI that has been a blessing: "The Good News Letter," Little Bible booklets, Tracts
Convictions: Armed Robbery
Inmate's Explanation: I robbed a department store cashier clerk at gunpoint while intoxicated and under the influence of drugs. Nobody was injured. I plead guilty to the charge.
Background of Inmate: I was born 8/27/53 in Houston, Texas, was raised in San Antonio, Texas by a single parent (dad), an Irishman who was divorced from my Mexican mother. I had no church upbringing since my dad was Agnostic. I left home when I was 17 years old.
Type of Current Facility: Maximum Security
If Bible Believers Fellowship has helped you in your walk with God, please state how: Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc. has helped me in my spiritual growth and Bible knowledge through the publication of their newsletters and Bible tracts and booklets. Their scriptural literature and teaching of God's word is helping me to learn and understand God's plans and purpose for my life and knowing my Savior Jesus Christ. I'm very thankful for their ministry and pray that God will continue to provide in meeting their [financial] needs...
Comments, if any: I really think Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc. newsletters have their finger on the pulse of things which they support with scripture.
Name of Inmate: Dennis Van Lee
Name of Prison: Huron Valley Men's Facility (Ypsilanti, Michigan). (As of September 1998, Dennis was transferred to the Riverside Correctional Facility.)
Denomination: Non-Denominational
Are you Born Again? Yes
If so, please state date: Approximately May 1990
Please tell us what Jesus Christ now means to you and how He has changed your life: Jesus means new birth to me. I've never been a man. Jesus has made me realize that no matter what I state, none of us are the men God created us to be, until we follow Jesus. Jesus to me means love - always coming in - flowing in, always - love coming out - flowing out, and the true beauty is the understanding that I'm responsible for keeping it going out, coming in. Jesus means life sustaining for me. I've tasted His love, and I want it forever. John 4:9-14. Thanks in Christ always.
Material provided by BBFI that has been a blessing: "The Good News Letter," Samuel Morris Book, a Bible, New Testament
Convictions: Second Degree Murder
Inmate's Explanation: As a Christian since 1990, and having experienced the Holy Spirit and the Holy Ghost, battling daily demons, forces vehemently opposing this new life, (see Romans 7:7-12) at the time of crime, I was demonically possessed. This is the understanding I've got from the spirit world as a Christian.
Background of Inmate: I was born in a small town in Batesville, Mississippi. Always restless but averagely a good kid. Mother died in 1968 and it's like I went into some type of shock until I came back to prison in 1976. Then I snapped back to reality, and without planning, I woke up in 1990 screaming Jesus - Jesus - Jesus. Life is not the same.
Info on Family: They're close when I'm close, far when I'm far, but I have faith and hope for them.
Type of Current Facility: Awaiting Trial, Medium Security, Maximum Security
If Bible Believers Fellowship has helped you in your walk with God, please state how: You could never imagine how Bible Believers Fellowship has helped. When I started receiving Bible Believers Fellowship in 1994, I'd been forced under segregated and isolated circumstances to stop praying, being subjected to exploitation of various forms of harassment - tactics - torture. I hadn't gotten on my knees for eighteen months. But I grew a thirst - a hunger for prayer during this time. Your first newsletter brought the reality of the demonic world alive for me. From that point on I've let nothing and no one stop me from praying. I've hungered every month for your newsletter.
Click here for photo of Dennis Van Lee.
Name of Inmate: Robert W. Key
Name of Prison: Wynne Unit (Huntsville, Texas)
Denomination: Reformed Baptist
Are you Born Again? Yes
If so, please state date: March 1989
Please tell us what Jesus Christ now means to you and how He has changed your life: Jesus Christ is my Lord, my Savior, my all. His precious blood was poured out at Calvary for payment of my sins and washed me white as snow. He has brought me from death to life, from darkness to light. I'm not the same person I used to be. I see sin for what it is. It's rebellion against God. My desire now is to walk with the Lord not go against Him. I now know what love is because of His love for me. I never knew what love was before.
Material provided by BBFI that has been a blessing: Tracts
Convictions: Aggravated Sexual Assault
Inmate's Explanation: The crime was against a niece. It was something she wanted to do but when she got caught a year later doing it with someone else, she also told about me. She was under 14 years of age.
Background of Inmate: I was from a broken home, not knowing my father till I was 11, and he took me and I lived with him and a cruel stepmother, so I left them at 16 and stayed with an uncle. He was homosexual. I've been married 4 times, have 6 children. Been divorced since 1978.
Info on Family: We are not close and this crime made it even worse. Only my mother supports me with her love through letters and what little money she is able to send.
Type of Current Facility: Maximum Security
If Bible Believers Fellowship has helped you in your walk with God, please state how: Your tracts have helped me to understand some scriptural truth that has been misunderstood by many and I wasn't sure of before. For that I am very thankful. They've helped others here also. The tracts are good sound scriptural literature.
Name of Chaplain: Dick Kastner and Benny Hindman
Comments, if any: I want to thank you again for the material you send to our chapel. It is much needed here. There is so much bad material going around and we need it to bring some truth to those that are truly seeking the Lord.
Name of Chaplain: Bill Lindsey
Name of Prison: Wm. E. Donaldson Facility (Bessemer, Alabama)
Denomination of Chaplain: Baptist
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Christ's life, love, death and resurrection is my hope for the future. He gives life meaning and a fulfillment of all needs. Nothing is deeper, and more meaningful, than to experience Him on a daily basis.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets.
Background of Chaplain: I was born on December 3, 1935 at Wilton, Alabama, had a normal childhood, and married my sweetheart and have been blessed with four children in the 44 years we have been married. As far back as I can remember I felt drawn by God to share the love of Christ in my heart, through preaching. I was licensed in 1954 by Garner Mem. Baptist Church and Ordained in 1957 by Rockdale Baptist Church, Bessemer, Alabama. I am presently Pastor of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church at Bessemer, Alabama, besides working for the Al. D.O.C. as Chaplain. My Evangelism tour included Haiti, Bolivia, Argentina, Nome Alaska, and Aruba between the years of 1954 and 1987.
Current Ministry info: I minister to the needs of the inmates as well as the officers, and arrange for outside ministers to preach/teach inmates through Laubach Reading classes. Participate in Senior Staff meetings, and serve on the Segregation Board. I am the co-ordinator of the A.V.I.C. Program. Marriages, funerals, baptisms, counseling, guiding and directing; pointing the way to real freedom through Christ's perfect example of love and obedience.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? I love the way you express your innermost feelings, through your faith filled words, such as found in the Nov/Dec 1996 issue of The Good News Letter, [paraphrased] "to bathe in the comforting presence of God; ah what a joy it is to see it on the bright faces of Christian believers, their eyes sparkling with fire; their enthusiasm giving us strength, courage and energy." Through Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc's abundant generosity of inspirational booklets, pamphlets and newsletters, it has had a definite positive impact on the inmate population, and we appreciate their faithful, dependable, God-loving charitable hearts. Money invested in God's work, is never wasted; like energy, it may change its form, like water, or a mustard seed; but as long as God is allowed (by faith) to be the gardener, He will and does make it grow and multiply. And you know that God will not be outdone in generosity!!!
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I wish God's blessings upon each participant in this very worthwhile project, to bring all the lost sheep back to the Good Shepherd - Our Father!!!
Name of Chaplain: Robert M. Watkins
Name of Prison: Huttonsville Correctional Center (Huttonsville, West Virginia)
Denomination of Chaplain: Non Denominational
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He is my life, Savior, baptizer, healer, provider, keeper, soon coming Savior.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets.
Background of Chaplain: I am 63 years young, Born Again 1958, filled or baptized in Holy Spirit 1961. Went into full time ministry 1963. Served as Pastor 18 yrs. Have ministered in prison ministry since 1983, in this present prison since 1986.
Current Ministry info: We followed a chaplain who was arrested by State Police for making obscene phone calls. God brought victory to help us overcome the stigma of unbelief. We have watched God save, heal, deliver men from sin, disease, drugs, pornography and make quality citizens, also call some to pulpit ministry, evangelist, missionaries.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Bible Believers Fellowship has been there to supply any request we have for ministry tools, whether tracts, books, videos. Any church, organization, or individual will be blessed by the Lord greatly if you support this ministry because Jesus said, I was in prison and you visited me, hungry and you gave me food, naked and you clothed me. What you do for prisoners you do unto me. God is moving in the prisons of America. You can get in on the harvest benefits by standing in prayer and financial support of this ministry.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: My faith is if God is our foundation, He provides all our needs. Psalms 37:4, 5.
Name of Chaplain: James Kelly
Name of Prison: Ely State Prison (Ely, Nevada)
Denomination of Chaplain: Catholic Christian
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? The center of my life.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets
Background of Chaplain: Ordained - Albany, NY - 1957; college professor (6 yrs); high school principal (5 yrs); Boys Town, Nebraska, chaplain (7 yrs); prison ministry (15 yrs).
Current Ministry info: Full Time Chaplain - Sun. thru Thurs. (7:30 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.); conduct Catholic services twice a week; coordinate Christian... services 7 times a week; visit all inmate units daily, counsel inmates at their request.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? In addition to books and literature, the new videos are extremely helpful because most inmates cannot come to chapel, but do have their own TV's and see our religious programs each weekend. We need many more videos!!!
Name of Chaplain: James McKinley
Name of Prison: Oaks Correctional Facility (East Lake, Michigan)
Denomination of Chaplain: Nondenominational
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He is my Savior and friend.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, Videos, Tracts, and Little Bible Booklets
Background of Chaplain: I have been a chaplain in the State of Michigan for 13 years. I have worked in the correctional setting during this time. It is a special work that I enjoy.
Current Ministry info: We are a high security prison with limited prisoner movement. Each housing must go to service separately and each group gets one hour service once a week. Volunteers do the programming and when they are not here we show movies or I take the service.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Prisoners enjoy your newsletter. Also the videos are very good, the prisoners enjoy watching them. It is always helpful when outside organizations, such as yours, are willing to support prison ministries. The variety of material is always very helpful.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: You are in my prayers. Hopefully it will help because we do need your ministry.
Name of Inmate: Richard (T.D.C.J. Policy: no photos, first name only).
Name of Prison: Hughes Unit (Gatesville, Texas)
Are you Born Again? Yes
If so, please state date: May 1969
Please tell us what Jesus Christ now means to you and how He has changed your life: Jesus Christ gave me a new purpose in my temporary life here, as well as eternal life in Heaven. He continues to "stretch" and strengthen my faith in Him. The Holy Spirit continues to guide me in expressing my feelings with others and with Him without hurting others, Him, and myself. The Holy Spirit and His word control me now instead of other people, powers, things, and myself. I am learning the balance between responsibility and control and over-protection.
Material provided by BBFI that has been a blessing: "The Good News Letter," Samuel Morris Book
Background of Inmate: Christian since 1969; dedicated to being a Christian husband and father since 1969; raised in a religious home with minimal communication from strict father and loving mother. In active-duty Air Force from 1965-1969; 17 years as a machinist, 13 years in management.
Info on Family: [I was] married faithfully for 21 years [and have 4 children]. Former wife divorced me after I was in prison 4 months because she couldn't continue marriage while I was in prison. She has not remarried.
Type of Current Facility: Minimum security, Maximum security
Explanation, if any: Classified as minimum security in college courses on a maximum security unit.
If Bible Believers Fellowship has helped you in your walk with God, please state how: The Good News Letter reminds me that my real and personal relationship with God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is more important than any ministry. Being a Christian in prison is more important than talking about it.
Name of Chaplain: L. Bartholf
Comments, if any: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13; Matthew 10:5-16, 23:37-39; Romans 10:1-11:24
Name of Chaplain: Mark W. Pickett
Name of Prison: Hodge Unit (Rusk, Texas)
Denomination of Chaplain: Full Gospel
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He is the Messiah, God's son sent to pay for the sins of all mankind.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets.
Background of Chaplain: I was called into full time ministry at age 34 and thought I was going into the military to be a chaplain. That door didn't open but the door into prison ministry did. I've been full time in TDCJ for eight years and enjoy the ministry very much. My nick name is Happy Chappy.
Current Ministry info: It is an MROP unit (mentally retarded offenders program). There are just over 875 male inmates here with three-fourths of them considered by the state to be mentally retarded. We have services Sundays and Wednesdays, a video study Sunday evenings, Bible studies the first two Saturdays, an ad.-seg. small group Thursdays, leadership training for three inmates Sunday evening and getting ready to start Saturday morning prayer meeting.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? I have received Bibles, books, literature and videos from BBFI. All of these items help the inmates to understand God's word and to grow in their faith. Many of these men have free time to read and it is a blessing to have Christian literature to place in their hands. There are other religious groups competing for the souls and minds of these men. This literature helps spread the gospel and sets the captives free.
Click here for photo of services at Hodge Unit and Chaplain Pickett.
Name of Inmate: George M. Boddingham
Name of Prison: Great Meadow Corr. Facility (Comstock, New York) [when he answered these questions, he was at Downstate Correctional Facility, Fishkill, New York]
Are you Born Again? Yes
If so, please state date: One year ago [September, 1995]. Praise The Lord!
Please tell us what Jesus Christ now means to you and how He has changed your life: I can truthfully say - the mighty Lord actually removed the rope from around my neck for I did not want to live further at one time, but, in His merciful love for us, He saved me and removed the chains of bondage from around my heart and renewed my life completely. Since then, I have accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and only salvation! I live today and dedicate my life to serving the Lord though I am incarcerated, for the Lord's message needs to be delivered behind these walls.
Material provided by BBFI that has been a blessing: "The Good News Letter," Samuel Morris Book
Convictions: First Degree Armed Robbery
Inmate's Explanation: I received, after trial in Queens, New York, fifty to life.
Background of Inmate: I am a single resident of New York all my life, graduated high school with college credits, numerous trades of means of support, no children, attended church during my younger years, recently became a Born Again Christian.
Info on Family: My mother, two brothers and three sisters, all married with children, mother single, father recently passed away.
Type of Current Facility: Maximum Security
If Bible Believers Fellowship has helped you in your walk with God, please state how: ...Your Samuel Morris Book was appreciated which I found inspirational and encouraging in my walk with Jesus. "The Good News Letter" I only read once and I pray now [that I'll be put on your] direct mailing list.
Comments, if any: Any further literature you may extend would be appreciated and shared between others. Peace unto you, God bless.
Name of Inmate: Omar M. Arias
Name of Prison: Hamilton Correctional Institution Annex (Jasper, Florida)
Are you Born Again? Yes
If so, please state date: October, 1994
Please tell us what Jesus Christ now means to you and how He has changed your life: When I first realized that I had given my life to Christ it felt wonderful and it made me see that He was everything to me!
Material provided by BBFI that has been a blessing: "The Good News Letter," Samuel Morris Book, Tracts, "La Carta De Buenas Nuevas"
Convictions: Aggravated Assaults
Inmate's Explanation: As a young man who did not believe in God I thought that I had nothing to worry about when I did something wrong. Because of this belief I did not mind hurting other people and went on doing it till the day the Lord showed me the errors of my ways.
Background of Inmate: I was born in the small country of El Salvador in Central America to a very unstable family and during a time of war. My mother left me and my brothers with my father. He was not a Christian so we were left to learn about God by ourselves, but through God's Mercy we learn what He did for us in Calvary and are now saved. Thank Lord!
Info on Family: Mother who is saved. Father who needs to be saved. Brothers who are believers and sister who also knows Him.
Type of Current Facility: Maximum Security
If Bible Believers Fellowship has helped you in your walk with God, please state how: With Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc.'s help, I have received the badly needed material that a young Christian behind bars needs to grow in the Faith. I and all of this ministry thank you for all your help in our time of need. Thank you again and may the Lord bless your ministry for ever.
Name of Chaplain: Dolores De Long
Name of Chaplain: Dolores De Long
Name of Prison: Hamilton Correctional Institution Annex (Jasper, Florida)
Denomination of Chaplain: E.C.A.
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Everything!
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets
Background of Chaplain: I have been a DC chaplain for almost four years, first at Hamilton C.I. Main Unit and since June at Hamilton C.I. Annex. Previous to that, I was a volunteer chaplain at Polk C.I. in Lakeland. At the same time I was in pastoral ministry with the United Methodist Church and serving on District and Conference Boards as well. I received my call to ministry in 1985. I attended Southeastern College (Assemblies of God) in Lakeland, FL. graduating with a B.A. in 1990 (English and Bible). I attended License to Preach School with Florida Southern College in Lakeland through the United Methodist Church. Then I did studies for Pastoral Ministry at Emory University (Chandler School of Theology) at Atlanta, GA. while also completing Candidacy studies (1 yr. understudy with a pastor on District Board) and studies through the Board of Ordained Ministry in Tennessee (correspondence). I then did a CPE unit at Lakeland Regional Hospital (clinical pastoral education--on job training as chaplain).
Current Ministry info: As a DC chaplain, I counsel staff, inmates and their families. I supervise religious studies, and services and train the citizen volunteers who preside at these services. I maintain the religious files on the inmate and also keep records and files on the services, training events, etc. I perform marriages, baptisms, and Holy communion services. I preach weekly. I also officiate at other religious rites and ceremonies (other religions e.g. Jewish, Muslim). I am responsible for soliciting religious materials and paraphernalia.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Because of a rule in the Department of Corrections which states that "No religious material will be purchased through the inmate's welfare trust fund" ...we are unable to get the material we so desperately need and are left to rely on donations to help the men in this prison. Thanks to Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc., who donate some of this material needed, we are able to provide these men with the material needed to build a strong spiritual foundation before entering society. Please consider making a donation to this ministry that helps those that are in need.
Name of Chaplain: Dennis Durant
Name of Prison: North Florida Reception Center-West Unit (Lake Butler, Florida)
Denomination of Chaplain: Christian & Missionary Alliance
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He is King of Kings & Lord of Lords - my Savior, Lord, Healer & coming King.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets
Background of Chaplain: I was born in San Francisco, CA, lived in New York City for 23 years, and was born again into God's family in 1974. I graduated from Nyack College (B.S. Christian Ed.) and M. Div. from Alliance Theological Seminary in 1981. I have been a prison chaplain since 1991.
Current Ministry info: My ministry is primarily evangelistic-presenting Christ to more than 1,000 inmates moving through NFRC each month (Florida's largest state prison). Our Reception Center houses a full hospital, psych ward, hospice, and inmates that are Permanent Transient, and Intransit. I perform marriages, baptisms, funerals (154 men died at NFRC last year), in addition to preaching and teaching. Every morning at 9:00 A.M., Monday through Friday, I conduct an evangelistic Bible study.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? In the fast pace of TV, fast food, and jets, the inmate population is accustomed to having something "grab" their attention. The videos donated by Bible Believers Fellowship provide a wonderful, full mix of historical events (believers during the Reformation) as well as other Christ-honoring info. We have a VCR projector which flashes the video on a wide screen. Since there can only be videos presented from the public library or nonprofit organization (such as BBFI), there is little in the way of Christian teaching. Personal videos cannot be shown - only donated videos. Thank you for providing quality, Christian programming enabling Christian inmates to grow and non-believers to come to faith in Jesus Christ. Inmates average reading ability is a fifth grade education. The little Bible booklets and pictured literature are quickly picked up by many of the semi-illiterate prison population. Please thank those who have contributed - particularly those who pray for us and have given sacrificially. God bless and keep you.
Name of Inmate: Nidia Vargas
Name of Prison: Orleans Parish Prison (New Orleans, Louisiana)
Are you Born Again? Yes
If so, please state date: April 28, 1992
Please tell us what Jesus Christ now means to you and how He has changed your life: Jesus is the light of my life! When I found Jesus, my life became filled with love. Hate, envy, strife, and all the things of the world became a part of my past and have no part of me in my life with Jesus. The Holy Spirit came into my life and brought me all glory and power and I am one of the richest people in the world now that I am one of the children of God. My goal now is to be able to carry the gospel to my family and native land as commanded in Mark 16:15 "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature." May the Holy Spirit guide me to lead others into the saving grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ so that they too can have eternal life. For nothing shall ever separate me from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus. Praise the Lord!
Material provided by BBFI that has been a blessing: "La Carta De Buenas Nuevas," Bible, Little Bible Booklets, Tracts, Personal Counseling
Convictions: Attempted distribution of Cocaine
Inmate's Explanation: I was delivering a kilo of cocaine from Miami to New Orleans and was stopped in Mississippi, arrested and sentenced to 15 years for attempted distribution of cocaine. I was doing this to obtain money to pay for surgery I needed.
Background of Inmate: I am of Cuban descent and lived as a Communist for 25 years as my father was a Communist militant before I was born. Currently I am married and have one child. I have a degree in Library Technician from a university in Cuba.
Info on Family: My husband resides in Texas; my one child lives in Miami with the family and I have a large host of friends and other relatives living in Miami, Florida as well as my family who is still in Cuba.
Type of Current Facility: Maximum Security
If Bible Believers Fellowship has helped you in your walk with God, please state how: I want to say that my studies through the Spanish ministry of Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc. has been an exciting and fulfilling time in my life. The study of the Bible through this ministry has been and continues to be a tremendous impact on my life and my walk with God. The personal guidance and devotion by the staff has turned many rainy days of depression into days filled with sunshine through their constant beams of hope and encouragement. Praise the Lord!
Name of Chaplain: Sister Robinson
Comments, if any: Thank you for all your love, support, guidance, but most of all for sharing Jesus, the man who has made such a difference in my life! Praise the Lord!
Name of Chaplain: Raeford C. Wiggins
Name of Prison: Franklin Correctional Center (Bunn, North Carolina)
Denomination of Chaplain: Church Of God
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Christ is the sacrificial lamb of God whose blood is ransom for me. I believe Christ is the only way to God the Father.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets
Background of Chaplain: I was born and raised on a farm in Eastern NC. Both my parents were wonderful parents and both were Christians. I received Christ into my life at twenty six years old, received the baptism in the Holy Spirit approx. one year later. Soon afterwards I was called into the ministry. For sometime I sought education to prepare myself for ministry. I have served in ministerial capacity as evangelist, pastor and clinical chaplain which is my present ministry. I am married, have two sons.
Current Ministry info: My ministry began at Franklin Correctional Center ten years ago. The area chaplain for the NC DOC sought me out and asked me to volunteer some time. I did for approx. nine years. April, 1995, I accepted an appointment at this facility as clinical chaplain. I serve as chaplain to five hundred inmates and one hundred fifty DOC employees.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Bible Believers Fellowship, Inc. is a tremendous source for many of the materials I desperately need in the performance of my ministry as a correctional chaplain. Almost every inmate incarcerated in my facility has his own personal Bible. There are constant requests for the role model books and tracts provided by BBFI. "The Good News Letter" we receive is dependable theologically and presents God's message in simplistic manner. I think anyone who donates funds to BBFI is making an investment in God's kingdom. While the public out cry toward offenders today is, "Lock 'em up and throw away the key," we must yet remember penal institutions are very much a part of the harvest field.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: It is my pleasure to speak for BBFI.
Name of Chaplain: Jesus Malave
Name of Prison: M.C.I. Norfolk (Norfolk, Massachusetts)
Denomination of Chaplain: Evangelical
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Eternal life.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Bibles
Background of Chaplain: I am 61 years old. I was ordained to the full ministry by the Church Of God in N.Y.C. (1979). The only Hispanic Protestant Chaplain in corrections...Where we have 3,000 Latinos inmates.
Current Ministry info: I do work on (3) different facilities including Norfolk with 1,400 inmates, 500 of them Latinos, Bay State, 296 long term lifers, and South Middlesex with 250 on Released Status.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Yes, you have been a blessing to my ministry with your gifts of Bibles and newsletters. However, if possible, I would like to add in, the near future, some videos. Now that the system is calling on volunteers participation, videos will be a blessing.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I pray that many people, viewers, will understand the great needs of all the ministries.
Name of Chaplain: J. Don Jordan
Name of Prison: Sandhills Youth Center (McCain, North Carolina)
Denomination of Chaplain: SBC
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He means everything to me, Lord, Savior, Master, Best Friend
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters
Background of Chaplain: Full time pastor for 25 years, involved in Christian schools, camps, assembly, conference ministries. Also prison chaplain, a supply pastor 12 years. Married 37 years, 3 children. Enjoy travel, reading, Bible study and pastoral ministry as well as counseling.
Current Ministry info: Pastoral care giver for 1,000 inmates per year, more than 100 staff members and 100 volunteers. Work with up to 20 programs per week including worship service, Bible studies, discipleship classes, maximized manhood, prison fellowship ministries, yokefellows, A.A., N.A., set free rallies, choir, choral groups, etc.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? All my life I have been involved in working with youth. One third of all black young men (the age I work with) are under the supervision of a correctional facility prison, parole, probation, etc. As a pastor it seemed that we were not reaching the youth and I wanted to be out "where the rubber meets the road" and so I am here. Even as a pastor I felt we somehow were missing the youth and they were slipping "thru" our hands. Experiences with my own son led me to rethink my philosophy of youth ministry and here I am working with incarcerated young men. Bible Believers Fellowship helps me do my job. There are tools we must have if we are to be successful in this ministry. In my 12 years as chaplain I have ministered with much help such as yours to 12,000 of the most needy youth of our state. Hundreds of them have made a profession of faith, many have had changed lives, and some are out today following successful lives and even some are preachers.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I am interested in helping those who minister here as you do assist me in ministry and outreach.
Name of Chaplain: Jesus Malave
Name of Prison: Bay State Correctional Center (Norfolk, Massachusetts)
Denomination of Chaplain: Evangelical
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? Everlasting Life, Eternal Life, Redemption
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Bibles, Videos, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets
Background of Chaplain: I am 61 years old. I have been Born Again since 1974. I was ordained by the Church Of God in N.Y.C. April 9, 1979 at Brooklyn, NY. I have been working as a Protestant chaplain at the Mass. D.O.C. since 1987.
Current Ministry info: I am the minority chaplain at MCI Norfolk housing 1400 inmates where 500 are Spanish speaking where I find 4 large groups of Colombians, Dominicans, Cubans, Puerto Ricans - 4 different cultures.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? You have been extremely well on my ministries serving the inmate population at large at South Middlesex Correctional Center where inmates are close to being released. At Bay State, on the contrary, we are housing long term inmates doing life without parole (300). At Norfolk, one of the largest facilities with one third of the population being Hispanic awaiting to be deported. Most of them with no families in the U.S., no visitors, no work, no money, just you and I are the only ones to reach out. With such a large group of lifers, I would like to have some videos, if possible, English and Spanish. Thank you.
Comments, if any, regarding your participation in this project: I am pleased to share this ministry with positive people such as Bible Believers.
Name of Chaplain: Sandra Daily
Name of Prison: Western Wayne Correctional Facility (Plymouth, Michigan)
Denomination of Chaplain: ELCA
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters
Current Ministry info: I serve as a "clinical" model chaplain in a state prison housing 750 adult men.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? My ministry is to provide religious programming for the entire prison population in a fair and economical way. This is best done at this facility through an outstanding team of volunteers representing many religious and spiritual practices and beliefs. It is also done by receiving much needed literature from ministries like Bible Believers Fellowship.
Name of Chaplain: Wayne Priest
Name of Prison: New River Correctional Institution (Raiford, Florida)
Denomination of Chaplain: Assembly Of God
What does Jesus Christ mean to you? He is Lord, Savior and my soon to return King.
Material received from BBFI: Newsletters, Role Model Books, Tracts, Little Bible Booklets.
Background of Chaplain: I was saved in 1969 and later called into the ministry. I was licensed and ordained a pastor for 6 years in Virginia. I graduated from Emmanuel College, Franklin Springs, Georgia in 1982 and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1985. I began as a chaplain with the Florida Department of Corrections in Feb. 1986.
Current Ministry info: We have 1800 inmates on two compounds and we have currently eight Christian services a week.
How has your Ministry benefited from BBFI? Your anointed literature has several benefits.
- It shows to the inmates in a tangible fashion that they are loved and not forgotten.
- Since the literature is anointed it aids in breaking the yokes, lifting the burden and setting the men free.
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