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Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Last night in the prison I spoke about the age-old question “what’s my purpose?”  We addressed the question of mankind’s purpose, then drilled down to my specific purpose.  We began with the reformed theological viewpoint through the Westminster shorter catechism’s very first question – What is the chief end of man?  And of course the answer is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.  We looked at many scripture references from Old and New Testaments that show us how obedience is key to glorifying God, and discussed how we enjoy Him forever by being in relationship with Him.

Our specific purpose is found by recognizing the gifts He’s given us (time, talents, treasures), and loving others through sharing those gifts.  That’s what Jesus told us to do – obey His commandments – and the greatest is to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and the second is like it – love our neighbor as ourselves.  “God has given each of you a gift from His great variety of spiritual gifts.  Use them well to serve one another.” (1 Peter 4:10)

Thank you all for sharing your time, talents, and treasure supporting this ministry. I believe it pleases our Heavenly Father to see His children supporting “the least of these.”  Keep up the good work, and God bless your week.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

PS. – Please join us on Saturday, Feb 28, 9:00-11:00am for our annual Benefit Breakfast At Waterway Church in Oxford.  Breakfast is free, but reservations required. [click here] for registration and details.

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service):

• Eric– everyone’s happiness, togetherness, and for kindness.
• Joe– praying for housing.
• Frank– for my sobriety when I get home.
• Vernon– for my kids and my Mom.
• Sean– for my daughters, and a good outcome from my court date next Tuesday.
• Richie– for my ex-wife Deb, my girl Kaitlen, and my court date next Wed.
• Manuel– my family, especially daughter Sofia and wife Adriana, and to know what is going on with my situation, no word on my case.
• Kyle– Lord, grant me the serenity to accept the things I can’t change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference, and for my sobriety.
• Christian– for anyone who is struggling, my family, and court date Wed.
• Jerron– my fiancé Paige needs strength and understanding (both of us), I need help for my temperament.
• James– for my fellow inmates like Job where everything was taken away and being tested every day.
• Andy– for unsaved family members to come to Jesus.
• Roland– for my sister-in-law Joan in the hospital, for her situation to stabilize.
• Eugene– for the homeless on the streets.

Prayer Requests from Medium Security (7:00pm Monday service):

• Ron– my stepson.
• Jonathan– my court date on Feb 2, and to be forgiven by God for my crimes and my sins.
• Julius– my court date tomorrow, my new nephew on the way (baby), for people to be more humble, and thankful for the volunteers with the heart to come in and serve us each week.
• Jermaine– my kids, especially my daughter graduating high school, fiancé having a disability hearing Thursday. For mom and dad and sisters- want my family to be together.  Got to talk to my dad, first time in a long while, mom still not ready to talk.  For everyone in here, and everyone like us. Also for this to be my last time here, help me to mend my ways.
• Troy– for my wife, and the entire family praying for me, I have court on Wed.  Pray for all the inmates and staff, for all my kids, especially my youngest daughter Lexis who is really lost and not living right.  Thankful for my cellmate Bob- we have a really good connection.
• Bob– I’m blessed every day, thank you for the new people I’ve met.  I pray for all the court dates and as the hand of God reaches out that we would all reach back.  Also pray for all the chaos to settle down around the world, and the innocent stay safe.  Also pray that I can get my CDL when out of here and have safe journeys with a new career.
• Ryan– to see my family soon.
• Andy L– for my pregnant neighbor who’s told her baby will only live 5 days – we pray for life!
• Jim M– for everyone in the prison to know Jesus as Lord and Savior.
• Mike– for my family, and forgiveness.
• Brandon– my brother Clarence on E-block, and my dad got out but has nowhere to go and it’s winter. Please take care of my family.
• Dan T– my brother-in-law who keeps dodging me, pray he would be saved.
• Rick C– for my daughter and her husband to be blessed with a baby.
• John– family and friends.
• Phil T– for Joy and Andrew and twin babies Josie and Ellie.  Mom and dad stressed to the max, and Josie going through serious health issues, but faith is strong. Thankful for the miracles – keep them coming!  Also thanks for my daughter Morgan getting good report from her first OB appointment in her pregnancy.  My wife fell and hurt her shoulder- prayers for healing and for her salvation.

Prayer Requests from Minimum Security (8:30pm Monday service)

• Joseph– pray for us all to be living sacrifices.
• Paulie– father health, also help him to open up.
• Dustin– true justice to prevail. Court case 1/28
• Andy– pray for his friend Matt for salvation and help with depression.
• Steve– for his wife Robin and his kids. Court case 2/16
• Tyreek– pray for another 25 years (it was his birthday) and for his girlfriend and 2 kids.
• Daniel– thank God for bringing him back!! For his wife Grace and her court case and that they can be reunited on 2/19 when he is released.
• Jay– God is speaking!! More clarity and understanding. Find purpose
• Thomas– to get time served for an old warrant. Build back his relationship with his significant other. Gods will. Reunite with his son Noah.
• Vincent– Get released Thursday and help take care of his 93 year old mom.
• Jerry– Getting out today. Give him peace and reunite with his son.
• Rick– Health, strength, and healing for our volunteer brother Bill, diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and beginning treatment.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Thankful for Waterway Church in Oxford, hosting our 2nd Annual Benefit Breakfast on Feb 28th.
• Chaplain Rhonda, and the female inmates and staff within her mission field.
• Chaplain Heinrich, and the male inmates and staff within his mission field.
• Chaplain Jack Crans, leading chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, and for inmates and prison leaders within his mission field. Also personal strength and healing from cancer.
• Onesimus Ministries board of directors, and provision of some new members.
• Volunteers ministering to the inmates at Chester County Prison.
• Families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at outreach@onesimusministries.org.

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

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Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

When you hear someone professing something you know is untrue, what do you do?  If you’re like most people, you ignore it and/or walk away.  What if it’s about faith and someone is trying to teach heresies and falsehoods to new believers and young Christians?  Do you shy away and avoid confrontation? or stand up for your faith?

We faced that dilemma in first service at prison last night.  During testimony time, when inmates are given a chance to talk about what God is doing in their life, a muslim inmate began to preach how all religious books have truth and the Quran held secret truths about Jesus that aren’t in the Bible.  As he spoke of Jesus’ cousin Muhammed, the son of Isaac, He was asked to sit down and be quiet because it’s not true, and when he persisted, was removed from the service.  Not an easy thing to deal with, especially in front of a crowd of 14 other inmates.

I think Jesus’ words flashed into all volunteer minds, from Matthew 10:32-33 “Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven.”  James 3 tells us teachers of the Word are held to higher account.  Teachers must speak truth and protect the vulnerable as best we can from falsehoods. Upon the exit of our muslim friend, we assured remaining inmates that his removal was done for their benefit, for Jesus himself said in John 14.6 “I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life.  No one comes to the Father except through me.”

What would you have done? Does silence count as a denial? We had to depend on boldness through the Holy Spirit, promised in Mt 10.19 and Lk 12.11, trusting He will give us the words (and He did).  As we pray for the inmates and their requests below, please also pray that episode is remembered in a positive light.  Thank you for your ongoing support and boldness in prayer for these men and their families.  God bless your week.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service):

• Sean– I have court on the 20th, praying for summary judgement.  Don’t have the best relationship with my brother or other family members.
• Christian– court date on the 21st, praying for some good news.
• Manuel– my family and friends, my wife Adriana and my daughter Sofia.
• Frank– thankful that Mom is feeling better, pray I can get a hold of my probation officer- it’s been impossible so far.
• James– I finally found forgiveness in my heart towards my wife.  I pray my wife and kids can find forgiveness in their hearts for me.
• Andy D– for Sean and his family on the loss of their Mom.
• Roland D– for court dates to hold and not be delayed further, and may Jesus walk with each man through the process.
• Eugene C– healing and peace, particularly for our nation.

Prayer Requests from Medium Security (7:00pm Monday service):

• Ron– upcoming court date Thursday, my cellmate who just got out today, for everyone in here, for my brother, and that I’d be out soon.
• Corey– I have court on the 20th, and for my family.
• Abdul (James)– that we never stop seeking knowledge and that we all find the truth. [This request is especially poignant since James was asked to leave the service during testimony time when he began preaching about Islam.  We pray James will find the real Truth in Jesus Christ]
• Zier– I was approved for work release, I hope many more of us can get over to the work release center.  I have 5 months left, and pray for my family.
• Bob– for the safety of my daughter Alexis (20) who’s a freshman at West Virginia University, also for my son Robert, for my kid’s wellbeing since their Mom passed away in 2014, and thankful for the volunteers coming out.
• Troy– for my family, my wife, my daughters, my son in California, and I have court on the 21st.
• John– for my Mom who is 85, and for the guys back on the block.
• Jonathan– my grandmother, my grandfather, and my kids Riley and Kaitlan.
• Brandon– for my family, brother Clarence on E-block, my Dad on Q-block, half the family is in here.
• Jim M– for everyone in the prison system – inmates and employees – to come to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
• Jose G– all in the prison to be saved.
• Mike– my family, wife Robin, Daughter Hannah, Sons Michael and Gavin, and forgiveness.
• Erwin– my sister battling cancer.
• Brian– for this time away from my significant other to be a blessing to both of us.
• Phil T– for Joy and her husband and the preemie twins going through many trials of health issues – wholeness and healing for Josie and Ellie, and peace for Mom and Dad.  Also thankfulness for my daughter Morgan in her 10th week and has 1st OB appointment Friday – may she have a normal, full-term pregnancy with baby and Mom staying healthy and safe.
• Dan T– my brother-in-law who is not saved and dodges all my attempts to talk about the Gospel, may he and all our family members no walking with the Lord come to know the Truth and be set free.

Prayer Requests from Minimum Security (8:30pm Monday service)

• Joseph– my release.
• Mike– keep my wife safe while I’m here.
• Troy L– my wife Caroline is traveling for a week, safe trip and return home, volunteer Bill’s health.
• Dustin– pray for real and true justice.
• Paul– my wife Brianna lost her grandfather last week, peace and comfort for family.
• Thomas– get time served for violation of probation, God continue to open my heart as I move along with this journey, restored relationships and be reunited with my son Noah..
• Daniel– favorable outcome for my wife Grace- her court date is on 1/26, for my release on 2/19
• Jason– my 2 court dates in February, reunited with my wife Jennifer, inmate Steve (I heard something bad happened).
• Charwan– my wife Brenda, wisdom and understanding.
• Vincent– health and patience for my 93 year old mother while I’m in here, court this Thursday, my release.
• Ryan S– wisdom/discernment regarding future opportunities.
• Andy D– call to prayer for our nation on Wednesday @ noon.
• Matt R– Gerald and Cheryl’s health, Sarah’s health as she battles breast cancer.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Chaplain Rhonda, and the female inmates and staff within her mission field.
• Chaplain Heinrich, and the male inmates and staff within his mission field.
• Chaplain Jack Crans, leading chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, and for inmates and prison leaders within his mission field. Also personal strength and healing from cancer.
• Onesimus Ministries board of directors, and provision of a few new members.
• Volunteers ministering to male and female inmates at Chester County Prison.
• Families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at outreach@onesimusministries.org.

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

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Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Deep depression is quite common in prison, especially during holidays like Christmas and New Years.  It’s palatable, yet the inmates are so grateful that volunteers come in and genuinely ask how they are doing.  We act as a proxy family to these men.  Last night during prayer time I read Psalm 142, and it seemed to strike a nerve when I got to verse 4.  Here is the entire psalm:

1 I cry out to the Lord; I plead for the Lord’s mercy.

2 I pour out my complaints before him and tell him all my troubles.

3 When I am overwhelmed, you alone know the way I should turn.

Wherever I go, my enemies have set traps for me.

4 I look for someone to come and help me, but no one gives me a passing thought!

No one will help me; no one cares a bit what happens to me.

5 Then I pray to you, O Lord.  I say, “You are my place of refuge. You are all I really want in life.

6 Hear my cry, for I am very low.  Rescue me from my persecutors, for they are too strong for me.

7 Bring me out of prison so I can thank you.  The godly will crowd around me, for you are good to me.”

I think we often underestimate the effect of our presence in other people’s lives.  Showing up matters.  In the prison, volunteers are a consistent presence that seek only to give, wanting nothing from them (which some find hard to believe). We just love on them like family – the family of God!

Who do each of us need to reach out to today, to love on them as part of the family of God?  Like Paul says in several of his letters, I continually thank God for you and the prayerful part you play towards the inmates, volunteers, chaplains, and others in the family of God. I pray this new year will provide many blessings for each of you, as well as more opportunities to bless others.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service):

• Jerron– for my fiancé Paige, blessings upon the volunteers, for understanding, love, and appreciation.
• Manuel– my family, my wife Adriana, my daughter Sofia, and for friends.
• Frank– my Mom (Barbara) is sick at home and feels awful.
• James– to be a victorious champion for God this year.
• Boz– for Shawn, and for everyone to be a better version of themselves in 2026.

Prayer Requests from Medium Security (7:00pm Monday service):

• Rick– volunteer Jim recovering from covid, volunteer Dan managing return of cancer and meds are causing him some issues.
• Steve– for my 18 month old son Elisha, my baby’s mom, and my court date on the 15th.
• John– my family and my friends.
• Dave– my public defender.
• Dan T– my brother-in-law keeps dodging requests to meet, pray for breakthrough to accept Christ.  Also for peace on the earth, there are lots of wars going on.
• Andy L– we have problems all over my neighborhood- pray for single mom who’s been abandoned with 2 kids, and another lady who is pregnant but doctors give the baby 5 days to live after birth.
• Brandon– my brother Clarence on E-block is really going through it.
• Jose G– salvation for all souls in the Chester County Prison facility- inmates, staff, volunteers.
• Phil T– former volunteer Ray Hunter left his faith years ago, now had stroke about a month ago and is struggling- pray he finds our gracious Heavenly Father who is waiting to welcome him back at any time.  Also pray for twin babies Josie and Ellie, going through a myriad of health issues (Josie), and for the parents Joy and Andrew to remain strong and faithful through all the life and death struggles for the 2 months of their little lives.

Prayer Requests from Minimum Security (8:30pm Monday service)

• Joseph– myself and everybody in this facility
• Mike– my family and their safety
• Ryan– family
• Franklin– freedom from addiction and lies
• Geybi– making the right decisions and court date
• Jose– court date and my kids
• Olen– mother
• Tyreek– my girl and 2 kids, court date, V’s mom
• Steve– wife/marriage, father in law who has prostate cancer, getting home to family, kids
• Paul– wife, protection and health for my 2 year old son
• Daniel– wife, myself, I have a lot going on
• Matt– watch over my mom because she’s alone
• Thomas– favorable outcome for violating my probation in Montgomery County, health and happiness for my 3.5 year old son Noah
• Jason– relief from extreme pain, wife
• Andy– volunteer Bill- favorable outcome of biopsy that he had on 1/5/26
• Matt R.- Gerald and Cheryl’s health, friend’s daughter Abi who has a small hole in her heart

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Chaplain Heinrich, and the male inmates and staff within his mission field.
• Chaplain Rhonda, and the female inmates and staff within her mission field.
• Chaplain Jack Crans, leading the chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, and for inmates and prison leadership within his mission field. Also personal strength and healing from cancer.
• For the Onesimus Ministries board of directors.
• All the volunteers ministering to male and female inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at outreach@onesimusministries.org.

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

[To view in a browser, visit this Link]

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Periodically during church services in the prison, we hear testimonies that remind us why God has us doing prison ministry. We are blessed every time He gives us a glimpse of what He’s doing in there.

Last night, a former hardened criminal was bearing his soul, telling us how God has been softening his heart, evident through his (lack of) response to someone stealing his cookies. Previously, he wouldn’t hesitate to beat up the person he thought most likely did it, including boiling some water and throwing it in their face. But now, God gives him peace to not care so much about somebody taking his stuff. It honestly doesn’t trigger him to violence like before.

Christmas is a great reminder of how much God cares about all of us, from corporate CEOs to janitors, from political leaders to inmates – He wants our hearts and will do incredible things once He has them.  And it’s an honor to serve Him as He’s drawing people to Himself.  He lets us be a part of what He’s doing.  Thank you for also being a part of what our Father is doing at Chester County Prison.  Bless you for blessing the inmates, staff, chaplains, volunteers, and their families with your prayers.  May God continue to reveal to all of us what He’s doing with our lives as we submit them to Him.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service):

• Jerron– for patience, peace, understanding, for my fiancé (Paige), and guidance.
• Manuel– my wife Adriana, daughter Sofia, my family, my friend Javier, and peace for all of us.
• Bob– I entered a motion for PCRA which resets my case back to the beginning, pray that it goes well for me.  Healing for my leg, and direct me on the right way to go.
• Frank– to be home to take care of my parents (Frank, 87, and Barbara, 85).
• Boz– for God’s plans to succeed at the end of it all, but there’s never an end to it with God.
• Andy– to feel better from my cold for our family get-together on Saturday.

Prayer Requests from Medium Security (7:00pm Monday service):

• Madrid– for my family, for me, blessings for my friends here.
• Ron– for my stepson Mason and my brother Dave.
• Jonathan– my little brother (20) had his appendix burst, he is the hospital getting surgery, pray he’s ok.  Also for my son, and for forgiveness.
• Aaron– I have a little brother and an older brother, and our relationship is not good – one of them gave my sister the drugs that killed her.  I just want my family back. Want to pray for my daughter, my child’s mother, and my significant other who going through it right now.  I have court in 2 days and pray I get released so I can get back out there with another chance to do it better- staying away from bad habits, places, and people.  Pray for all the guys fighting through their cases, may it all go well for them.
• Mike– my family, my wife Robin, daughter Hannah, and sons Gavin and Michael.  Also for my fellow buddies on the tier.
• Steve– for my 1-1/2 year old son Elisha, and my baby’s mom.
• Jose G– for the salvation of all people at Chester County Prison and their families.
• Phil T– continued prayer for Joy and her little babies Josie and Ellie- may God continue to hold them in the palm of His hand and heal them.  Also for Joy’s husband Andrew with panic attacks. And a word of praise for my daughter Morgan (previously prayed for her depression) who just found out she’s pregnant and everything went well with her first appointment.
• Andy L– for my pregnant neighbor who doctors tell her the baby won’t live more than 5 days after birth, we pray God proves the doctors wrong.  I also have 2 good friends who are dying, and it feels like I’m surrounded by death and sorrow.
• Erwin J– please continue to pray for my sister Elwyn with cancer.
• Dan T– my brother-in-law has early onset of dementia and is unsaved, pray for his salvation.

Prayer Requests from Minimum Security (8:30pm Monday service)

• Vincent– mother and family.
• Joseph– all those in CC prison- quick releases and for his family.
• Armand– relationships in and out of prison.
• Josh– understanding.
• Matt– his brother Tom to heal quickly.
• Tom– family and early release dates.
• Steve– for his wife Robin and family.
• Tyreek– faith
• Zack– wisdom, his family and his court date Friday.
• Carlos– family, prisoners and his court date next Monday.
• Bento– everyone to get back to Jesus.
• Daniel– him and his wife to get back together soon.
• Jason– homeless and those addicted.
• Matt– health of Gerald and Sheryl. For Abi is having surgery for a small hole in her heart.
• Troy– family improve relationship.
• Andy– for his sister Donna going through cancer. His brother Jeff who has a calcium blockage in his leg.
• Ryan– for his wife Janice to find peace, and to be a better husband to her.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Chaplain Heinrich, and the male inmates and staff within his mission field.
• Chaplain Rhonda, and the female inmates and staff within her mission field.
• Chaplain Jack Crans, leading the chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, and for leaders within his mission field. Also personal strength and healing from cancer.
• For the Onesimus Ministries board of directors.
• All the volunteers ministering to male and female inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at outreach@onesimusministries.org.

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

[To view this email in a browser, visit this Link]

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

It’s almost here – Christmas day.  The day we celebrate God sending His only Son to the Earth as a baby.  Did you ever wonder why He did it that way?  I mean, we’re talking about God – the almighty creator and sustainer of the universe – why would He choose such humble means instead of coming in glory and majesty with great pomp and circumstance?  The prophets of the Old Testament had described the intensity of His glorious nature – like with Moses on Mt. Sinai, and when He filled the temple with His presence and the priests couldn’t continue their work.  Why did He come to us as a helpless little baby?

As we seek to understand the true nature of God, we should realize He desires a close relationship with us.  And in our limited understanding we don’t get how that could work – He’s God and we’re lowly humans.  But what if He related to us in a way we COULD understand?  What if He took human form to look like us and talk like us?  He could befriend us and show us the way to the Father.  And isn’t that what he did?  Was he trying to show us how accessible and relatable he is?

Having a relationship with God is still a tough concept for many, but it’s the core of being a believer so it’s worth figuring out.  It means talking with Him, hearing from Him, spending time with Him, and getting to know Him.  We do this through prayer, studying His Word, worship, and in community with other believers.  I pray we can all spend some time talking with others this Christmas season about our great God, what He’s done, and why we celebrate.  As always, thanks for your prayers and God bless you!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service):

• Jerron– for understanding, peace, family and children, for my fiancé (Paige), her peace, and patience.
• Manuel– my daughter (Sofia), my wife (Adriana), my family and my friend Javier.
• Victor– my family, my brother (Augustine), my Dad (Lucas).
• Frank– to get home and back to my parents (Frank, 87, and Barbara, 85).
• John– for God’s will to be done in my life, grateful for answered prayers, and that I can stay out of prison once I get out.
• Boz– for everyone to get to court soon and get some good news.
• Bob– thankful for being alive, and for healing on my broken leg.
• Roland– for all the guys to know and experience the love of God and His faithfulness.
• Eugene– for Carl who went up state and was diagnosed with lung cancer.  Also for all the guys to have a greater hunger and thirst for God’s Word.
• Andy– my brother is having surgery today – last time he had this surgery he had 3 heart attacks, pray he can get through it successfully this time and a speedy recovery.

Prayer Requests from Medium Security (7:00pm Monday service):

• Ron– for my stepson, my brother (Dave), and for all of us to get out soon.
• Jonathan– for the mother of my children who is fighting drug addiction.  I was an addict so I know how hard it is.
• Jim– my brother-in-law Jeff in a nursing home not getting good care, pray we can get him into a better place that will take care of him and be closer to family.
• Aaron– for my daughter, and my children’s mother- I appreciate what she’s doing. And for my mother’s health.
• Mike– for my wife Robin, my daughter Hannah, and my sons Gavin and Michael.
• Andy L– for my pregnant neighbor who doctors tell her the baby won’t live more than 5 days after birth, we pray for a miracle.
• Brandon– for my brother Clarence on E block, my 3-1/2 year old daughter Nana, and my Mom.
• John– for all of our families and friends.
• Jose G– for the salvation of every person in Chester County Prison – staff, inmates, officers – and for all of their families during this holiday season.
• Phil T– for those feelig lonely and alone to have peace and consolation.  And for the preemie twins (Josie and Ellie) who are still going through health trials, and please keep the parents from discouragement.
• Dan T– for my brother-in-law to stop dodging me trying to talk to him about Christ, and that he would come to know the Truth.

Prayer Requests from Minimum Security (8:30pm Monday service)

• Vince– continued good health for my 93 yr old mother, and a quick release for me.
• Steve– for my wife Robin, that we can work on our marriage, for my family, my court case, and to get home soon.
• Armand– that God would bless all of our families with abundance, and we could all have less stress in this Christmas season.
• Matt– my daughter Emma and my family.
• Bill H– I had a prostate biopsy on Monday – pray for negative results and the Lord’s will be done.
• Tom– for my 3-1/2 year old son Noah, for the court to have mercy on my case both here in Chester county and my violation of probation in Montgomery county
• Ron– for my mother, for God to be with her over the holidays and that all her needs will be met, and for my family.
• Daniel– for my wife Grace, for me to go home soon, and for family.
• Jason– for the outside world to slow down and see what’s truly happening, to see Jesus, we all seem to miss it.
• Zack– for my family’s wellbeing and health, especially my Mom Debra going through the holidays alone for the first time- we lost my Dad back in June.
• Andy D– for my neighbors whose nephew passed away last week, and for the parents – this was the third child they’ve lost.
• Joseph– for my family, my baby girl (Darielyc), my other kids, and for a quick release.
• William– for my family and to get released soon.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Chaplain Heinrich Botes, and the male inmates and staff within his mission field.
• Chaplain Rhonda Soland, and the female inmates and staff within her mission field.
• Chaplain Jack Crans, the chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, and prison leaders within his mission field. Also personal strength and healing from cancer.
• For the Onesimus Ministries board of directors, and the future of the board.
• All the volunteers ministering to male and female inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at outreach@onesimusministries.org.

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

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Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

We are quickly approaching most people’s favorite holiday – Christmas.  But why is it so popular?  Is it the festive, decorated trees, houses, and storefronts?  Is it the mad scramble to buy the right gifts?  Is it the traditions and family get-togethers?  Is it the rich foods and Christmas cookies?  We must be careful.  There’s certainly nothing wrong with joining in the celebratory mood and partaking in tradition, but our hearts must be clear on the true reason for the season – the savior of the world come to earth as a baby.  A demonstration of the Father’s agape love for us, that would be continually revealed in increasing fashion throughout the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

And the best gift we could give anyone this Christmas season is to gently inform and invite them into the real Christmas story.  Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus consistently invited people to follow Him.  We must keep in mind John 3.17, “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”

We need to be careful about our attitude – sometimes we are quick to condemn others and their views (on Christmas, for example).  We’re much better off following the example of Jesus towards the general public, inviting them into something better because God loves them and wants more for them – true riches in a priceless inheritance kept in heaven, for those who would call on the name of Jesus Christ and be saved.

We can share our living Hope with everyone around us.  And thank you for sharing your time and attention each week as you pray for the men and women in prison.  Your prayers and the presence of chaplains and volunteers in the prison share our living Hope with many inmates.  Thanks also for your ongoing support of this ministry.  You are a blessing to many!  Be blessed in His name!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service):

• Richie– my girl Kaitlyn, my ex-wife Deb, my family and friends.
• Manuel– my daughter (Sofia), my wife (Adriana), my family and my friend Javier.
• Victor– my family, my brother (Augustine), my Dad (Lucas).
• William– my son (Michael, 15 ) died on his Mother’s birthday – His birthday is coming up on Dec 19th.
• John– for God’s will to be done in my life, for patience and strength, for my case to come back with time served, to get into a rehab facility, and get started on a productive life and stay out of jail.
• Bob– for people everywhere, this world is a mess.
• Andy– I’m continuing my Gospel conversation with my brother Jeff today, pray that his heart is open to hear the Good News and accept Christ.
• Roland– for all the guys going to court this week, that the Lord will comfort them through the proceedings.
• Eugene– for all those who have lost loved ones, going through this holiday season missing them- may they make it through the season victoriously with Jesus.

Prayer Requests from Medium Security (7:00pm Monday service):

• Cory– my mom is feeling better after the hospital stay, but she’s still sick with a fever – pray for her healing.  Also for people to be safe out there in winter weather with all the snow and ice.
• Billy– my upcoming court date.
• Jonathan– for my family to have a good holiday.
• Ron– for my brother (Dave)
• Mike– for my wife (Robin) and my kids (Hannah, Michael, and Gavin)
• Brandon– for my brother (Clarance) on E-block, he’s really going through it
• John– for my family, and a family friend (Christina).
• Andrew– for my Mom (Kathleen), my father (James), and my sister (Kyra).
• Jim M– for the salvation of everyone in here.  Also for my brother in law Jeff (72) in a nursing home with deplorable conditions. We are trying to get him into a nursing home closer to his family. 
• Phil T– for baby Josie and her family (Joy, Andrew, and Ellie) to continue experiencing God’s love and miracles with her health and wellbeing, and to grow into a happy infant, toddler, little girl, young lady, and eventually a mom herself.
• Phil T– for Lilly, a small child receiving a liver transplant 6 months ago but her body is rejecting it, may God’s healing and wholeness be upon her little body.  Also for my daughter Morgan.
• Dan T– for my Brother-in-law to have a softened heart to at least listen to the Good News and ultimately accept it.
• Jose– for Anna, who suffers severe depression and anxiety.  Also for 2 other friends.

Prayer Requests from Minimum Security (8:30pm Monday service)

• Alfonzo– my family.
• Haydon– to be home soon.
• Armon– for my family, and that court goes well.
• Josh– understanding.
• Steve– wife Robin, their marriage, and to get home soon.
• Matt– my daughter Emma.
• Jose– my court date to go well, and that I can get home soon.
• Dave– family.
• Dan– for his wife and himself- lots going on.
• Denny– family.
• William– family.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Chaplain Heinrich Botes, and the male inmates and staff within his mission field.
• Chaplain Rhonda Soland, and the female inmates and staff within her mission field.
• Chaplain Jack Crans, the chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, and prison leaders within his mission field. Also personal strength and healing from cancer.
• For the Onesimus Ministries board of directors, and the future of the board.
• All the volunteers ministering to male and female inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at outreach@onesimusministries.org.

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

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Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I use the YouVersion Bible app on my phone (highly recommended) which allows me to read and study God’s Word in many versions, subscribe to Bible reading plans, and one of my favorites – the verse of the day.  Each morning, it only takes about 5 minutes to ingest a little nugget of God’s wisdom, including a short devotion, some encouragement, and a prayer.  It’s a phenomenal way to begin your day.

Yesterday’s verse was Proverbs 4:23, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”  In this context, think of the heart as the center of our being – a combination of our mind and our soul.  Our behavior is determined by our attitude.  And our attitude is determined by our heart.  Therefore, to truly effect permanent change in any behavior, it must begin with the heart.

God tells us to be careful what we feed our heart.  Especially this time of year, the world is very willing and able to fill it with selfishness and materialism. God created our heart, so what our heart needs most is Him.  Some of the best things we can do for ourselves is seek God through prayer, read His Word, reflect on His blessings, and invite the Holy Spirit to speak to us throughout our day.  Something will always be missing if we don’t invite God into our hearts.  And we must be careful to guard our hearts, because everything we do flows from it.

I’m thankful there’s a place in your heart for the inmates, chaplains, volunteers, and staff at Chester County Prison.  The time we spend in prayer for them each week is time well spent.  It honors God, it blesses them, and it grows us closer to our Heavenly Father.  Thank you for your heart, may God fill it to overflowing with His love all the days of your life.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service):

• Shaun– to have a positive re-entry once I’m out of here, and to reconnect with my Mom (Melissa) – she’s homeless and I lost track of her years ago, pray I can locate her.
• Sean– court date in 7 days, pray for no more continuances, and that all goes well.
• Manuel– my wife (Adriana), my daughter (Sofia), my family and my friend Javier back in Mexico.
• John– to incorporate God’s will more into my life, get time served judgement, get to rehab facility, and get back to my family and stay out of jail.
• Boz– for whatever in the dark comes to light in the name of Jesus.
• Andy– for my relationship with Jesus to deepen this advent season.
• Roland– for all inmates to experience Hope, Peace, Love, and Joy this Christmas season.
• Eugene– prayers for me- going to Kensington & Somerset tomorrow to evangelize.

Prayer Requests from Medium Security (7:00pm Monday service):

• Vernon– for my kids, my ex-wife, my mother, and I have a bad toothache.
• Ron– for my stepson, and my cat.
• Cory– for my Mom who was in the hospital for 4 days with swelling in her face, they treated her with medications and released her, pray for her full healing.  Also pray for when I get out, whether from here or if I go to state prison, that God would put me on a good path.
• Billy– my upcoming court date.
• Andrew– all my brothers and sisters in the prison, and outside the prison, and for my Mom (Kathleen), my father (James), and my sister (Kyra).
• Alics– for my Mom and Dad (Ed and Crystal), for my grandma (Joyce), and for them to get along without me since I’m the main wage earner and it gets tight if I’m not around (they are all on social security).
• Mike– for my wife (Robin) and my kids (Hannah, Michael, and Gavin), and forgiveness.
• Jose G– for everyone in here to be saved and their families.  Also pray for all those struggling with addictions.
• Dan T– for the peace of Jerusalem, for clarity and focus for me (the meds I’m on make me a little foggy), and for my Brother-in-law to have clarity and presence to accept Christ (memory issues).

Prayer Requests from Minimum Security (8:30pm Monday service)

• Kostas– for his girlfriend to answer phone so he knows she is ok.

• Beto– power to work with God.
• Chett– get out this week. Prayer his son who is starting his first job goes well.
• Cam– his wife seasonal depression
• Tyreek– for all the prisoners. Pray for peace for his pregnant girlfriend.
• Daniel– wife and home peace.
• David– fellow inmates.
• Matt– prayers for his in-laws and for his father in law Gerald who just received new pacemaker. May it give him energy he is seeking.

• Steve– For Robert has prostate cancer. Also for his wife who just got into car accident and car was totaled.

• Gina– for her father John. He had to go to emergency room for inflammation of his intestines and his lung capacity is low.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Chaplain Heinrich, and all the male inmates and staff within his mission field.
• Chaplain Rhonda, and all the female inmates and staff within her mission field.
• Chaplain Jack Crans, the chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, and prison leadership within his mission field. Also personal strength and healing from cancer.
• For the Onesimus Ministries board of directors, and the future of the board.
• All the volunteers ministering to male and female inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at outreach@onesimusministries.org.

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

[To view in a browser, visit this Link]

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

How many of us actually took time to express what we’re thankful for at our Thanksgiving gathering? I’ll admit with our family reunion-style Thanksgiving (41 people, and 8 were missing!) it was tough because we were so spread out, so I failed to speak my thankfulness in that setting.  But I did tell my wife that morning how I’m thankful for her putting up with me for 34 years (and counting)!  What a difference it can make to others around us if we maintain an attitude of gratitude.

As fallen and sinful human beings, I think our default attitude is one of selfishness – Me first!  It takes effort to be thankful, but the more we do it, the easier it gets.  How do we want to be remembered?  As a loving, giving, helpful person?  Or something else?  It’s funny how we celebrated Thanksgiving last Thursday, followed quickly by Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday.  And now today we land on Giving Tuesday – I like how it comes back around to sharing what we’re thankful to God for giving us in the  first place.

I’m thankful for each one of you, and how you give your time each week to pray for the inmates, their requests, the chaplains, and the volunteers that go into Chester County Prison each week.  As we pray through the inmate requests below, let’s also pray that God will show each of us how we can be even more thoughtful, thankful, and giving in our everyday lives.  May god bless you, and bless others through you this week.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Female Inmate Prayer Requests from Chaplain Rhonda

• MP:  “Please pray for my cellmate/friend, J. V., that she can find peace from her past traumas and use them to affect positive changes and growth for her bright future. And have God pour His grace and blessings upon her! She truly is God’s angel and a bright light in my day. Thank you!”
• AP: “To keep custody of my daughter and to not lose my faith. Open my eyes to what the Lord wants from me. I feel abandoned and need Him so bad right now.”

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service):

• Sean – has court in 2 weeks, hopes to get probation. For his children.
• Manuel – family – wife and daughter. For those of us in the Ministry.
• Robert – everyone.
• John – grateful for today’s message, and that he would get time served so he can be released to a rehab and ultimately get home.

Prayer Requests from Medium Security (7:00pm Monday service):

• Alics– for everyone serving time in this prison, and for all of our brothers both inside and outside Chester County Prison system- may we experience a speedy outcome and the process be better.
• Andrew– for my Mother (Kathleen), my Father (James), and my sister (Kyra).
• John– for my trial next week and for my family.
• Jose G– for Anna (14) who struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts.
• Andy L– for my pregnant neighbor whose doctor says the baby won’t live more than about 5 days after birth.
• Phil T– for Joy’s 4-week-old twins (Josie and Ellie) that are still gaining weight and progressing.  Josie needs to gain much more weight after the heart surgery, but praise God most or all of the tubes have been removed and she’s getting stronger.
• Mike– for my wife (Robin) and 3 children- that they would forgive me.
• Dan T– for the right opportunity to witness to my Brother-in-law (he keeps dodging me), and that he might finally accept Jesus into his heart.
• Phil T– praise God that Jim is back after his knee surgery, and Jose is back after his injury, may both men experience continued healing and restoration.  And for Daeron who should be out of prison now- hope he made it home for Thanksgiving, and we pray for him and many other inmates re-entering society to NOT return to their old habits, and NOT come back to prison.
• Rick C– for my wife’s nephew Cole, his wife Rachel, and their young children who couldn’t come to Thanksgiving because they have covid – may they all be healed and restored quickly.

Prayer Requests from Minimum Security (8:30pm Monday service)

• Rick C– for my wife (Robin) who’s had a chest cough for a month – healing.
• Armand– for people questioning belief, that they will find the Lord.  Also, pray that I find favor in  court on the 16th.
• Casey– praying to hear good news that I’ll be released this week to Colonial House in York (rehab facility), and for my Dad with stage 4 cancer.
• Jason– that people can find their way to Jesus.
• Tyreek– for guidance.
• Tyrua– to be transferred over to the work release center tomorrow – I’m on the list – and for everyone in this room, and for my family and my kids.
• Rondel– that my court case goes well.
• William– [very thick accent- couldn’t make out what he said, but God knows his prayer request]
• Isaiah– my court date.
• Danny– [very thick accent- couldn’t make out what he said, but God knows his prayer request]
• Josh– for people to have understanding and to have wisdom.
• Gus– for everybody in the room, that we all make it home.
• Steve– my Father-in-law (Robert), it was his birthday today, and healing for his prostate cancer.  Also for my wife (Robin), that our marriage would work out, for my kids, and my court date this week to go well.
• Teron– for family, for myself, for health, for all of us in here- that this coming year would be a better year.
• Matt R– my Father-in-law (Gerald) had pacemaker surgery this week- for quick recovery- and for unsaved family members.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Chaplain Heinrich, and all the male inmates and staff within his mission field.
• Chaplain Rhonda, and all the female inmates and staff within her mission field.
• Chaplain Jack Crans, and the chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, and the prison leadership within his mission field. Also personal strength and healing from his cancer.
• For the Onesimus Ministries board of directors, and the future of the board.
• All the volunteers ministering to male and female inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County ministering to recently released men and women.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at outreach@onesimusministries.org.

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

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Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

It was an up and down weekend for football fans.  Well, at least for this fan.  My son-in-law got us tickets to the Saturday evening Penn State game where we watched them trounce Nebraska – that was a great (albeit cold) evening!  All that elation faded away the next day during the dismal 2nd half when the Eagles lost to the Cowboys.  It’s funny how we live vicariously through our sports teams, and show fierce loyalty for “our team”.  We talk about what “we” need to do, and how “we” just scored, and how “we” better get our act together – but how many of us are actually on the field with the other players?  I’d say approximately zero.

We rejoice and celebrate with our team when they win, and we cry and console one another when they lose.  We bleed our team’s colors.  Isn’t that what it’s supposed to be like on God’s team?

Funny how we can invest so much of ourselves in a franchise that doesn’t even know our name, yet we can be so non-committal to our Heavenly Father’s family.  He loves us sacrificially and knows every hair on our heads.  Jesus bled the colors that saved everyone who is saved.  Why aren’t we just as excited about our victory in Jesus?

As we approach Thanksgiving, I’m so thankful to be on Team Jesus.  And I’m thankful for each of you and the vital part you play in supporting this ministry.  Please remember to take some time to think about and share what you’re thankful for this Thanksgiving.  God bless your holiday!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service):

• Chris– for my wife (Jennifer), my daughter (Freya), and my Mom (Maryann), for their protection and health.
• Mark– I have court tomorrow, want to get out so I can get 2 operations – on my wrist and I have a hernia.  I was also diagnosed with prostate cancer. Not getting help in here.
• Richie– for my wife (Kaitlyn), and my family and friends.
• Manuel– my family, especially wife (Adriana) and daughter (Sophia), and my friend Javier now back in Mexico.
• Alex– for my brother to live longer, for me to make less mistakes, and that my unborn baby would be healthy.
• John– thankful for God answering last week’s prayer- my girl reached out and is helping me.  Pray I can get to rehab, get home, and stay out of prison.
• Dillon– for my mom (Stephanie) to get to her appointment tomorrow to get her brain checked- she was shot in the head.

Prayer Requests from Medium Security (7:00pm Monday service):

• Andy D– for his brother, Jeff, who is having stents put in his leg tomorrow.  Normally not a big deal, but the last time he had that done he had 3 heart attacks in the aftermath.
• Andrew – for his mother, dad, and his sister, Kyra.
• Woody– for his unsaved family members.
• Dan T– for his “ongoing project” – his brother-in-law and the opportunity to minister to him; for the good reports on twins Josie and Ellie.
• Alice – for prisoners.
• Vernon – for his children to forgive him for being in jail again.
• Andy L–  for his neighbor who is pregnant, but who has been told her baby will only live a few days.
• Erwin – for his older sister, Elwyn, as she endures terminal cancer.
• Zaire – his mom, sister, kids, nieces & nephews, and for his upcoming time at the Work Release Center.
• Sean – for salvation; that Jesus guides His flock; his friends & enemies; to get out, and that his family accepts him back.
• Phil – for Jim’s restoration to this ministry, his continued healing, and for his message tonight; for my son, Kyle, having concerning neurologic symptoms, his wife, Hannah, and their baby daughter; for Joy and Andrew having to go back to work earlier than anticipated and the resultant child care demands for 2 preemies; for my daughter, Morgan, and her depression as she still doesn’t have a child of her own; for Daeron (verified spelling) getting released this week, and for him continuing to walk closely w the Lord on the outside.

Prayer Requests from Minimum Security (8:30pm Monday service)

• Jason– for his son to have a good birthday on Dec. 2
• Aaron– for the world.
• Casey– a good holiday, get home for Christmas.
• David– pray for all the men, his kids and grandchildren.
• Steve– that his family has a good thanksgiving, for Robert who has prostate cancer, and for his wife Robin.
• Clarence– for a good holiday, and that we can make the best of it.
• Cyrus– for the kids holidays, and healing for his brother’s bad ankle. To get work release.
• Jason– prayer for faith.
• Vincent– for family.
• David– that my sentencing goes well.
• William– my family and my court case.
• Tatto– my court case .

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Chaplain Heinrich and all the male inmates and staff within his mission field.
• Chaplain Rhonda and all the female inmates and staff within her mission field.
• Chaplain Jack Crans and the chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, and the prison leadership within his mission field. Also personal strength and healing from his cancer.
• For the Onesimus Ministries board of directors, and the future of the board.
• All the volunteers ministering to male and female inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County ministering to recently released men and women.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at outreach@onesimusministries.org.

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org

[To view in a browser, visit this Link]

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I’m convinced God has a plan for each day of our lives, even if we don’t see it.  I woke up last Saturday morning in a very strange situation – I had nothing planned to do the entire day.  That literally hasn’t happened in decades!  Oh, there are plenty of projects around the house that need my attention, but I had nothing on my schedule.  It was a bit unsettling, and made me wonder why I should even get out of bed.  I meandered downstairs anyway, and soon after my wife pointed to the kitchen ceiling and asked “is that a wet spot?” It sure was, and I got busy tearing into the ceiling to discover a leaking joint in the plumbing. Not wanting to witness the destruction, she left for the grocery store, only to return a minute later with the news she had a flat tire.

So much for having nothing to do.  But then I realized – God already knew all this was going to happen, and I praised Him for opening my day to address these issues without having to postpone or reschedule anything else.  What a gracious God!  He gave me the skills and the time it took to fix both issues and still be able to sit back and watch Penn State finally win a football game (after 6 straight losses).

It’s interesting the different ways we can approach each day.  We can trudge through life, going through the motions, wondering where is the joy (my normal mode), or we can look for the possibilities God may bring our way each new day (the outlook I wish I had).  Often it takes someone else to shake us out of our routine and remind us how blessed we are – why not do that for someone in your life today?  And why not pray that for the inmates in prison as well?  Thank you so much for your diligence in praying for the men, women, chaplains, and volunteers at the prison.  Your prayer support is essential to the ministry.  Keep up the good work!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service):

• Nicholas– for the American government.
• Brandon– for our families, keep them safe.
• Mark– for the 4 officers who beat me to pay for what they did.

[Note: I prayed for accountability and that God might soften Mark’s heart to forgive them.]

• Manuel– daughter Sophia and wife Adriana, family, and my friend Javier now back in Mexico.
• Edgar– for my Mom.
• Patrick– my Dad’s lymphoma was determined to be stage 3 cancer, he’s starting chemo. Pray for me, I leave tomorrow.  Pray to keep the faith and stay on the path, that my situation goes well, and for all the guys in here when it’s their turn.
• John– for my ol’ lady to get back on track with communication – she abandoned me.
• Salcido– for all of us in jail.
• Andy– greater wisdom and compassion in sharing the Gospel.
• Roland– with holidays coming up, for the families of all the men, and for the men to have the blessing of peace and love of Christ in their heart.
• Eugene– for the homeless.

Prayer Requests from Medium Security (7:00pm Monday service):

• Brandon– for family, and for fairness.
• Tyreek– for my girl and our baby son due on Dec 19th- I want to be there.  Also for our government.
• Dan T– for our brother Jose, still recovering from a bad fall and anxious to get back with the ministry, for brother Jim recovering from knee surgery also anxious to get back in here, for Erwin’s recovery from bad cold, and his Sister with cancer, and for my Brother-in-law to be ready to accept Christ.
• Phil T– for Dan’s recovery from cancer, though incurable we’re thankful for the effectiveness of treatment.  Also for Joy and Andrew’s baby Josephine, just days old with cardiac issues and one surgery already done – Lord please look with favor upon that little baby and may your mercy and healing be fully upon her to grow strong physically and in You.  Bless that entire family for their faithfulness and testimony to many of your gracious and extravagant love.
• Deron– to get home next week.
• Rick C– for all the inmates and their families as we approach Thanksgiving and Christmas when families usually get together – it’s a tough time for all, may they all sense the comforting presence of Jesus through the holidays.

Prayer Requests from Minimum Security (8:30pm Monday service)

• JC– Dad with Stage 4 cancer.
• Eddie– Aunt with Stage 4 cancer-for good labs, his kids, for men recently released, for the volunteers.
• Matt– his friend Mary Ann’s son Nick in Seattle battling addiction; not working.
• Andy– salvation of family members.
• Armond– for abundance for his family; that his evaluation goes well; for the volunteers.
• Cyrus– For his daughter facing first Christmas without him; healing for his brother’s ankle; for himself and all the men.
• Jason– for all facing issues.
• Steve– safety for his wife Robin and his family.
• Brandon– for his family and all in the room.
• Troy– healing for his 2 granddaughters.
• David– that his sentencing would go well.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Chaplain Heinrich and all the male inmates and staff within his mission field.
• Chaplain Rhonda and all the female inmates and staff within her mission field.
• Chaplain Jack Crans and the entire chaplaincy program, and the prison leadership within his mission field. Also for strength and healing as he contends with late stage cancer.
• For the Onesimus Ministries board of directors, and the future of the board.
• All the volunteers ministering to the male and female inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County ministering to recently released men and women.

If you’d like to find out more about mentoring and discipling a man or woman coming out of prison, drop us a note at outreach@onesimusministries.org.

If this email was forwarded to you and you’d like to subscribe, click HERE.

www.onesimusministries.org