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My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Dependency on God is so freeing.  He always brings the right things in His perfect timing.  Like when I sensed a week ago He wants me to preach about religion versus a personal relationship with Christ, and how understanding what it means to have a personal relationship with Christ was the defining moment in my faith journey.  Then last night several inmates had questions or testimonies about that very subject.  I believe God used me to deliver a message they needed to hear.  And that is simply amazing – how He can use such a broken vessel to accomplish His work on Earth.  As I’ve heard from pastors a number of times, the ability God seeks most in us is our availability.

And we appreciate how each of you consistently give your availability in support of what God is doing through this prison ministry.  I hope and pray you sense His joy and blessing as you lift up these men and women in prison, and their prayer requests each week.  Your partnership means more than you know.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service, plus Inmate 1-1 sessions):

• Kenneth– praise the Lord my lawyer issues are being resolved, and even the judge seems to care more about my situation.  I was about to unload on my lawyer about how he messed up so many things when he apologized and told me how he was going to proceed – it gave me peace.  I’m praying for the process and for God to prepare me for what’s coming next, and help me stay on the path.
• Hypolite– to get back to my wife and kids.  I have court on Tue (today), and pray for the judge’s heart.
• Eugene– healing from wrist surgery, and encouragement for men’s meeting in his church.

• Kenny– the other assistant maintenance guy (Tech) is going home Feb 18, pray that his replacement would be a good guy. My May 25 release date coming quick, pray my time would continue to go fast and smooth. Pray that my family all doing well, my friends doing good, especially Jimmie and Frances, and that we all get a 2nd chance.

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

• John– that God would return us to our families.
• Demonta– court on 24th, pray I can go home with time served.
• Aaron– that we can be reunited with our families.
• Jon– everyone’s family, for all the victims of tragedy, like from California wildfires, the plane crashes, and murders. For all of us to renew our minds in here.
• Rick C– for quick healing of our friend Jim who had heart surgery last week.
• Kevin– for spiritual strength and security.
• Dan T– for the hostages in Gaza still in captivity over a year later, and for my brother-in-law to be receptive to the message of Christ’s forgiveness.
• Ross– I’ve been in here 37 months, praying for what God wants me to do and where He wants me to go – I wanted to go back to Florida but I’m at the point where I’ll go wherever God sends me.

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

• Pascual– pray for me and my family.
• Jeeter– to get released soon.
• Joe– my daughter’s wellbeing while I’m in here.
• Elizer– a better life.
• Jeremiah– my sister Tameeka who had cancer surgeries was rushed back to hospital – not sure of severity.
• Shawn– my friend and her mom.
• Pat– my family, and for patience.
• Charles– for my anger issues to get better – need peace.
• Andy D– my friend Ralph unsuccessful trying to sell his business- weighing on him for some time.
• Rick C– my daughter and son-in-law looking for a house close to church, work, and friends.  They put in a bid on a place, pray it’s accepted if that’s the right house for them.
• Donny– praise God my heart issues are clear, all tests normal.
• Joe– need transformation.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• For a successful 1st annual Benefit Breakfast on March 1 (details on website, link below).
• For all our prison Chaplains – Rhonda, Heinrich, Jack, and their families.
• For ministry volunteers serving inside and outside the prison, and those waiting to serve.
• For prison staff, especially those in leadership, and their families.
• For staffing issues (shortage, retention, etc) and for more opportunities for volunteers to serve inside the prison.
• For all the incarcerated women and men, and their families.
• For Aftercare ministries and other support organizations ministering to men and women released from prison.

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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My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Over the last few years, we’ve heard more about “misinformation” and “disinformation” than we care to remember. These overused terms are just softer ways of referring to lies. Misinformation is lying without intent to harm, while disinformation is deliberate lying to mislead others.  Plenty of both in today’s world make it exceedingly difficult to know what’s really true.  With trust in legacy news sources hitting all-time lows, curious why people still tune in. We all want truth, though many will just take what they can find. The Bible describes Satan as the great deceiver (Rev 12:9) and father of lies (Jn 8:44) – I think he’s very happy with all this right now.

Whether mis- or disinformation, it’s simply not the truth.  But we all have access to the ultimate source of truth- the Holy Bible. With the inspired word of God so readily available in practically every language and translation imaginable, why are so few familiar with its contents, let alone well-versed?  Perhaps we’re afraid of God’s truth, or we just want our own truth.  Whichever we choose to define our present reality, our inevitable future will bring us face-to-face with God’s reality.  For Bible-believing Christians, that day is welcomed with open arms.  For others, a fearful unknown will be quite the shock. 

As Christ-followers, it’s our job to make disciples- investing God’s truth into the lives of others.  Our goal every day in the prison, through volunteers and our chaplains, is to show inmates the truth of God’s ever-present and unlimited love, mercy, and saving grace in contrast to what we see in our world.  As always, thank you for your partnership and support to make that happen.  God bless your week!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service, plus Inmate 1-1 sessions):

• Roland– for the guys not here today, pray they come back next week.
• Andy– stressed about band issues, things not coming together for upcoming benefit concert – help me to let go and put it in God’s hands.  Also asking God to rekindle passion in me to share the Gospel, following Jesus’ example of seeking and saving the lost.
• Kenneth– to keep the faith, and stay strong mentally through this journey- been pretty oppressive lately.  God keep me in your good graces, and grant me wisdom and guidance. Also pray for the victims of the plane crash and their families, and for the family and friends of that kid who fell off a light pole and died during Eagles championship celebration.
• Eugene– for all of us to have a greater hunger and thirst for His Word and His righteousness.  Also pray for our president and new administration, and for them to realize how words have power.
• Rick– for our country to seek out truth, and for all media outlets to stop being so biased and twisting stories for their purposes and causing further division.

• Kenny– my brother and best friend both have the flu.  Mom continues to work crazy hours. My uncle is a big Eagles fan so hope they do well.  Pray for my family – they seem to be doing good – for my friends, especially Jimmie and Frances, and for my time to go smooth and fast.

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

• Rick C– for volunteer Jim who had heart surgery this morning- wife said he came through ok, pray for healing and quick recovery, and upcoming knee replacement surgery.
• John– God return us to our families.
• Ross– I have a big meeting tomorrow, hope it all goes well.  Pray for everyone in here and their court dates and probation hearings, and everyone’s health.
• Drake– for guidance, thank you for good virtues and the sense of brotherhood, and for being around some good people.  Pray for conversion of my parents, they are lost – please change their hearts.
• Brandon– for all in here and what they are going through, for the volunteers who come in each week, for 3 family members fighting cancer- my 2nd Mom (almost clear), my Aunt (stage 4), and my Uncle (pancreatic cancer, doing ok).  Pray for everyone’s family and support system that takes care of us and keeps us going- God watch over them.
• John– for everyone impacted by plane crashes and the wildfires in California, for all the homeless as it’s real cold out lately, for the little old ladies in Lancaster who pray for us, and for my 8 kids and grandkids to all be walking with the Lord.  Pray for everyone in the prison to renew their mind, and pray for the new president and his administration.
• Jay– my son was born 3 weeks ago and has a hole in his heart, and my little sister (17) was in a real bad car accident last week.
• Stefan– for forgiveness, and my 2 sons (8, 11) – I want to be a good father to them.
• Joel– guidance, my mother, my father, thank you for chance to come here and participate.
• Kevin– for protection and strength, especially against Satan’s power.
• Dan T– for my brother-in-law to hear and respond to the Gospel message- he’s in grief counseling over suicide of 18 year old son, blaming himself, now marriage is on the rocks – pray for the right opportunity to witness and that Jesus would heal and remove his burden.

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

• José– my kids (3 boys).
• Kyle– my daughter (Cassidy), my Mom, and my Step-dad.
• Pasqual– my family, my kids, court date on the 10th.
• Philpa– my entire family and all of us.
• Jeremiah– my sister’s recovery from cancer and surgeries, for my strength- feeling defeated. And thanks for all the volunteers coming in out of the kindness of their hearts.
• Donnie– my Aunt Janice has stage 4 cancer, praying for a miracle.  Also pray for my family, daughter, grandkids, and my church that’s really taking care of all of us.
• Alan– for my daughters, and my family to be stronger. My brother-in-law (Ryan) had 3 strokes.  For Bernadette, Andrew, and George – my friend was shot in home invasion and now paralyzed, her son was shot and killed- cops looking for guns had wrong address.  Also pray for our country and this world- things are scary.
• Andy D– for the victims and families of both recent plane crashes.
• Matt R– our friend Martin who is out now says he is praying for all the inmates and volunteers. Pray for Guy who is also out but no longer wants to be contacted, pray for him to not isolate himself.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• That more would come to our 1st ever Prison Ministry Benefit Breakfast on March 1 (details on website, link below). Only 19 reservations so far.
• For Chaplains Rhonda, Heinrich, Jack, and their families.
• All the ministry volunteers serving inside and outside the prison.
• Prison leadership, staff members, and their families.
• Resolution to staff shortages and retention issues/ increased opportunities for volunteers inside the prison.
• All the incarcerated women and men, and their families.
• Aftercare ministries and support organizations ministering to men and women released from prison.

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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My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Ever wonder if you’re really following God’s leading when it doesn’t seem to make sense? Then it all comes together when He lets you see why? That happened to me (again) last Thursday, as it was my turn to preach. At least a week ahead of time, I start praying for inspiration on what to preach.  Days went by, and nothing came to mind. Monday night rolled around, and both prison services had the same message from different volunteers – the armor of God in Ephesians 6.  A familiar lesson, and it’s preached often in prison.

The idea stuck with me. I looked up the last time I preached it – April 2024, not that long ago.  God, are you sure? Aren’t we over-doing it a bit? I scanned my notes and felt uninspired to just “dust off” that message and give it again, so I started from scratch.  The Lord showed me a few things I never saw before – like direct links to Jesus in each piece of armor.  Thursday came, and I felt we should begin chapel time with prayer requests. The first man described how his faith was drifting, he lost his bearings, and was losing control of his behavior because of his situation. I looked at another volunteer who knew my topic and we just smiled.  This man desperately needed the armor of God in his situation.

I love it when God shows us why He led us somewhere.  He doesn’t need to – He owes us nothing – but I think He likes to inspire and fill us with enthusiasm over what He’s doing and how He lets us be a part of it.  And we are all so grateful for all of you being a part of what we’re doing in this prison ministry.  It takes many parts to keep moving forward, and your support through prayer and other means is vital – Thank You!  May God bless you in a special and powerful way this week.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service, plus Inmate 1-1 sessions):

• Larry– I’m drifting from God, losing my bearings, and starting to lose control of my behavior.  I’m supposed to be out on bail, but it feels like everyone is messing with me.  It’s really discouraging and I pray I’ll be getting out soon.
• Kenneth– my girl is going through trials in her move to Virginia – she’s really discouraged that her plans keep changing.  I pray she can keep focus and not be discouraged.  Also want to pray for Charlie who missed church last two times – pray he comes back and for the situation with his Mom having a stroke and not doing well – pray for her healing.  Also pray for the volunteers and their families.
• Roland– praying for inspiration on my message to preach next week, since I thought it was going to be the armor of God.  Lord, lead me to the right scriptures.
• José– for my wife (Yolanda), she has diabetes.
• Kenneth– prison system not helpful – oppressive – seems to be going in wrong direction with good officers leaving under new administration – I pray for attitudes of helpfulness.

• Kenny– my brother is back safe from Mexico – he had a blast. Mom is working crazy hours (3am-2pm), Dad is working a lot, sister just seems to work and sleep.  Pray for my back pain- sciatica on right side, they give me Motrin and anti-depressants. Pray that my time continues to go smooth and fast, for my family, and my friends especially Frances and Jimmie.

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

• John– pray God would return us to our families soon.
• Demonte– court date on Feb 3
• Drake– grateful to be back in church, it’s been a while (was moved to other block). Pray for guidance when I’m out, and a solid home plan, and thankful for my outside support system.
• John#2– thanks for answered prayer with cease fire and hostages being released.  Pray for family, kids, grandkids, and victims of California wildfires.
• Michael– my Aunt Louis has terminal cancer- pray I can be released to see her and take care of things, this is really tough on my Mom.
• Nicholas– my granddaughter was born the other day – praise God.
• Kevin– for God to keep everyone and give us peace.
• Jose G– for the salvation of all the souls in Chester County Prison.
• Jim M– for the inmate (Daniel) who couldn’t sleep last week. [Daniel replied that he did actually get some sleep after church last week]
• Dan T– my brother-in-law in facility in Florida to deal with grief- blames self for son’s suicide- pray he would seek the Lord and God would release his burden.
• Stefan– Ancestors watch over me and get me home safe. [For accuracy, that was the request, however I prayed for God to watch over him]
• Rick C– safe travels for volunteer Jose and wife headed to Colorado for 3 weeks to spend time with new grandchild (first one). 

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

• Buck– for judge to have favorable opinion of me in court tomorrow at 1:30pm
• Jeremiah– thanks to volunteers coming out and taking care of us.  For my sister Tamica with stage 4 ovarian cancer and going through surgeries.  For my District Attorney to have a softened heart and bring my case to conclusion in my favor – it’s been 4 years of waiting.
• Eddie– guidance and wisdom for myself and so I can help others
• Logan– for the Lord to provide for my wife and kids.  And for my brother to come to the Lord.
• Rick C– for volunteer Jim who was supposed to have knee replacement surgery this week but got postponed as they look into heart issues uncovered with stress test. Going in for catheterization on Wednesday.
• Andy D– my friend Rich had  a high PSA test- peace for him and family, and good outcomes on follow up tests.
• Donnie– I give thanks for my church taking care of my family, and for my heart issues – things still up in the air – not sure what’s going on.
• Matt R– for my mental stability during this journey of sobriety, been having bad dreams lately about drinking – God please rid me of these thoughts.
• Rick C– for volunteer Andy who recently had hernia surgery and is in pain from lifting something heavy yesterday.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• For good turnout and plenty of support for our 1st ever Prison Ministry Benefit Breakfast on March 1 (details on website, link below).
• Chaplains Jack, Rhonda, Heinrich, and their families.
• All the prison ministry volunteers serving inside and outside the prison
• Increased opportunities for volunteers inside the prison.
• Prison leadership, staff members, and their families.
• Resolution to staff shortages and retention issues.
• All the female inmates and their families.
• All the male inmates and their families.
• Aftercare ministries and support organizations ministering to men and women released from prison.

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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My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

“There are no coincidences”, said the inmate seated next to me. The volunteer preaching in 2nd service just commented how he and the 1st service preacher spoke on the way in, and both had selected the same topic tonight. I fully agree – everything happens for a reason, although our secular world would often rather believe in random chance and “fate”.

In these situations, I find myself recalling Romans 8:28, “And we know God works all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.” We must be careful to state the entire verse if we quote it.  Too often I hear people say “God works all things for good”, which could lead hearers to think that if things aren’t good, then God’s not sovereign and in control. Or promoting an overly-inclusive sentiment that God works things equally for all people, when the Bible clearly states this promise is for those who love God and are called according to His purpose.

That can open up a bigger conversation about all promises in the Bible, and how they are meant for believers, while the ultimate end for unbelievers described in God’s Word does apply to all mankind. If the conversation heads that way, my next question normally is to ask if they want to be part of all God’s wonderful promises, in particular to be with God in paradise forever once this life is over. It’s amazing how an innocent comment about coincidence can quickly lead to a decision for Christ. I believe God wants us to be ready, because you never know when an opportunity may come. 1 Peter 3.15 reminds us to “always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have, and to do this with gentleness and respect”.

Prison ministry volunteers remain sensitive to those opportunities, and we appreciate your prayers, as do all the inmates when we remind them each week of how we send their requests out to you, and they are prayed for all week long.  Thanks for your part and how it helps us do our part.  Keep the power flowing, and have a blessed week (and keep warm!).

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service, plus Inmate 1-1 sessions):

• Volunteer Eugene’s granddaughter not feeling well.
• Fire victims in California.
• Our families.
• Everyone’s spirit back on the block.

• Kenny– still reading through various books of the Bible and getting a lot out of it.  My brother comes home this weekend from a week in Mexico – he’s having the time of his life I hear. Pray that my time continues to go smooth and fast, that I can learn new skills in my maintenance job in here that I can use for a job when I’m out. For my family, and my friends especially Frances and Jimmie.

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

• John– pray God would return us to our families.
• Daniel– for healing of my insomnia, it’s driving me crazy – I can’t sleep more than 1 hour each night, I’m having hallucinations and don’t know how to handle it anymore.  This has been going on for 30 years but never this bad before. Need some peace.
• Jose G– our first grandchild was recently born. Also for our new president and new administration, and for our nation.
• Nicholas– for us and our families to stay strong and get through this.
• Kevin– that God would take our problems and concerns out of our hands, since they are out of our control anyway.
• Jim M– I’m having knee surgery a week from Wednesday.
• Michael– my Aunt Lois has terminal cancer, pray for family support and that I could be there to support her.
• Mackey– keep our faith and for patience.
• Dan T– my brother-in-law in grief support facility working through his son’s suicide that he blames himself for, asking for him to let the Lord remove his burden.
• Phil T– my coworker (Kennedy) broke up from a long-term relationship, help me find an opening to share the Gospel with him.

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

• Jeremiah– thanks to volunteers coming in through snowy cold weather, for my family, and a successful outcome of my case.
• Nelson– for a hedge of protection on my family. For health, prosperity, and wisdom for all of us.  For my elderly Mom who’s getting older- want to lift her us, and for my sister.
• Donnie– my girlfriend Kelly’s mom passed away- prayers for her family.  For my daughter and granddaughters, and for my heart issues – I feel fine now but something’s still wrong.
• Mark– for my family and how much pain I’ve put them through.
• Rick C– healing for my friend Vince from church- developed congestive heart failure while waiting for heart valve replacement surgery – slowly recovering from both.
• Brian– my kids and family, and for my sister who’s going through some serious stuff with her kids- pray for them to be on a better path.
• Andy D– for everyone who is struggling to know they are not beyond God’s forgiveness.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• For all to go well with our 1st ever Prison Ministry Benefit Breakfast on March 1 (details on website, link below).
• Strength, health, and wellbeing of our Chaplains in Chester County Prison-  Jack, Rhonda, Heinrich, and their families.
• Blessings upon all the ministry volunteers serving inside and outside the prison, and prayers for increased opportunities to come about soon.
• God’s rich blessings upon the prison leadership, all staff members, and their families.  Prayers for resolution to staff shortages and other issues that get in the way of routine operations and normal shifts.
• For all the incarcerated women and men at the prison- waiting for trial, waiting for sentencing, waiting for transfer to state prison, or serving their time- may the Spirit of God soften hearts, inhabit their prayers, and draw more people unto Himself.  Also for all their families and support systems.
• God’s provision and blessing upon the various Aftercare ministries and support organizations ministering to men and women released from prison- may they have all they need to help each client continue their faith journey and build a new life.

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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My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

During chapel services last Thursday, I watched a young man break down as he spoke a prayer request for his Mom who suffered a massive stroke and may not live much longer.  It reminds me how we flawed human beings tend to categorize and dehumanize people, especially bad people. Like those sent to prison for breaking our laws. But prison ministry volunteers often see another side – the hurting, remorseful, and defeated individuals who never counted the costs of their actions and didn’t realize what could be lost.

Emotions surfaced as this young man realized the last time he saw his Mom might be the last time ever. In our youth, didn’t we all assume our parents would always be there when we got back from wherever we went?  I fully expected Mom and Dad to still be at my childhood home when my Air Force enlistment was up (and they were). But we aren’t promised such things on earth.  We routinely remind the men how God promises us in His Word if we trust Christ as our personal Lord and Savior, we will be with Him for eternity.  And we can surmise that if our parents also trusted Christ as Lord and Savior, we’ll get to see them again.  So every week we pray with the men for salvation of themselves, lost family members, and others they know aren’t walking with the Lord.  We also pray for God to use each of us as He would to make that happen.

We thank each of you for your part in making that happen through your support of the ministry through your prayers, your time, and other gifts. And please be attentive for any other ways God may have for you to spread the love of Jesus and grow His Kingdom.  Be bold, and be blessed!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service, plus Inmate 1-1 sessions):

• Charlie– my oldest turns 15 today, and my Mom (April) had a massive stroke with bleeding on the brain – she’s in Paoli hospital and they say it doesn’t look good.
• Kenneth– help me to trust in the process of life with Christ, like what is He teaching me through this? My biggest fear is to lose another family member while in here.  Help me focus on what God wants for me, and pray for the men back on the block – one guy had a heart attack, and another guy is just giving up.
• Ken– for all the people that fall into corruption.
• Kenneth– for miss Barb who has open heart surgery coming up.
• Rick– all the victims of wild fires in California.

• Kenny– very thankful my good friend Frances came to visit me. Pray for my brother leaving for Mexico on Saturday 1/11, he will be there a week. Thankful all seems to be going well, and pray things would continue to go well and my time would go smooth and fast. Pray for my family and friends.

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

• John– my fiancé is pregnant and needed iron infusions, insurance wouldn’t cover so we prayed on it, still rejected and prayed more, then approved – thanks to God. Pray for my cellmate (Essam) who had a heart attack, and pray God returns us to our families soon.
• Phil T– my neighbor’s son and his wife had twin boys 8 weeks premature, pray for their health and strength.
• John#2– that everyone’s family is blessed, and for renewed minds – that we can give it all to the Lord.  Also praying for world peace.
• Nicolas– for our struggles.
• Phil T– for courage to witness to my coworkers.
• Dan T– for my brother-in-law at a grief seminar for his son’s suicide where he blames himself. Pray he would find the Lord and his burden be lifted.
• Erwin– California wildfire victims.
• Jose– my daughter is scheduled to be induced on Jan 20th, they don’t want to wait long because of her diabetes. 

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

• Ryan– my friend Eric has a growth – potentially cancer – nervous about tests – he’s searching for peace thinking that all his stress is causing the cancer, but he’s looking at secular and buddhist solutions, may he find true peace in Christ.
• Jeremiah– my brother (Tyrell) recently got out of prison after 17 years, but now he can’t be found.
• Pat– for our families, and for patience.
• Pasquale– my wife, my kids, extended family, all our families, and everyone here.
• Logan– thanking God for His grace, and praying for continued mercy.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Our Prison Chaplains-  Jack, Rhonda, Heinrich, and their families.
• All prison staff, particularly leadership, stressed about staff shortages other issues. Blessings on them and their families/ support systems.
• All ministry volunteers, both serving in the prison and behind the scenes. May volunteer opportunities increase and the staffing issues be resolved.
• All inmates and their families – both are doing time.
• Aftercare ministries and support organizations – vital for continued growth once inmates released.

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]

My Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

This latest winter storm interrupted traffic and airports across the Midwest, dropping a foot or more of snow in many areas. And though we missed the brunt of the storm, it still caused interruption to our volunteer team since all prison activities were cancelled last night.  We understand the need for safety and ongoing impacts of staff shortages (made worse in circumstances such as these), but are always disappointed when we don’t get to minister to the men. We still have some inmate prayer requests thanks to Heinrich and Rhonda.

We know everything happens for a reason, or in Biblical terms, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Rom 8.28)  For example, upon our return after the covid interruption of this ministry (for years!), we heard stories of how the mature Christian inmates started numerous Bible studies back on the blocks since volunteers couldn’t get in. Perhaps God was doing something similar last night – we may never know, but need to trust that He has everything under control, and of course His timing and His judgement of every person and every situation is always perfect.

I’m amazed He uses us flawed human beings at all to accomplish His work.  I think He may use service opportunities to see who is truly for Him.  “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to give strong support to those whose heart is blameless toward him.” (2 Chron 16.9a)  When we can’t physically be with the inmates, I can assure you that many (or all) of us still prayed for them.  And we thank you for doing the same each and every week. Your support is more important than you will ever know.  And your reward is clearly stated in Matthew 6:20-21, “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service, plus Inmate 1-1 sessions):

• Kenneth– for my journey – my walk of faith. Keep me strong through the setbacks and trials.
• Ken– for all the lonely people who feel like nobody cares about them.  And to never come back here again.
• Larry– my 16 year old niece (Gianna) has leukemia.  And for the family of my other niece (Mary Jane) who passed away.
• Andy– for all the victims and families of the New Year’s terrorist attack in New Orleans. Also for all those affected by the other incidents in Las Vegas and in New York.

• Kenny– thanks for a new year, and being that much closer to getting released.  Thankful my family is doing well – I talked to them last night.  Pray my friends are doing well, like Frances and Jimmie. Pray my brother Manny has a good and safe time in Mexico starting on the 8th. Pray my time continues to go fast and smooth, and that I continue getting the Good Word from The Lord.

Female Inmate Prayer Requests from Chaplain Rhonda

• MR – “I will be leaving for rehab….please keep me in prayer, that I learn a lot, do good there and gain the tools I need to get back with my family, stay sober and keep God in my heart.”

• SH –  one of our older inmates, very distraught, dealing with mental health issues, and needing more time and attention than I have to give her. She’s very knowledgeable about the Bible; pray that she takes what she knows to heart and finds her peace in the Lord

• KD – also dealing with mental health issues; very anxious and overwrought;  plagued by compulsive and obsessive thinking; pls pray peace and relief for her

• AP – back in CCP again after a long absence; asking for a Bible and devotional book again; pray that she gets back on track with the Lord

Male Inmate Prayer Requests from Chaplain Heinrich

Please pray for:

• JF: Is applying to be accepted by Jubilee Ministries. He may be released within 4 weeks.

• BH: Serious psychological disorder and extreme views including that he is the Messiah. Also pray for his estranged but longing father, WB.

• MZ: Accepted by Potter’s House. Pray for a profitable stay, especially to endure the strict discipline of Phase 1.

• Nora Rew (a former religious volunteer). Her husband and also a religious volunteer, Dr Robert Rew, passed away on January 1. He was extremely involved at CCP with “Behold Your God” and “Malachi Dads” classes as well as with actual reentry initiatives.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Ongoing strength, peace, and wisdom for Chaplains Jack, Rhonda, and Heinrich to minister effectively within Chester County Prison and beyond. Bless their families and everyone they encounter.
• Blessings upon prison staff, particularly the leaders, as they deal daily with staff shortages and many other issues. Blessings also upon their families and support systems.
• Increased volunteer opportunities through resolution of staffing issues at the prison.
• Blessings upon all the inmates and their families – both are doing time without the other.
• Bless the volunteers currently serving within the prison – may each experience a renewed and refreshed spirit with boldness to meet every opportunity God provides to share the Gospel.
• Blessings on the Aftercare ministries – may each one receive everything they need to continue what the Lord has called them to do.  And may every client be blessed through them, and experience spiritual growth beyond what they ever thought possible.

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.

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www.onesimusministries.org

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New Year blessings to you and yours!

It seems like we’re about to turn a corner in the “wet blanket” attitude within the prison.  Inmates are still mostly down in the dumps as they think about Christmas activities they are missing with their families, especially those with children. But last night in second service I noticed a little glimmer of hope shining through – most of their testimonies and some of the prayer requests looked forward to new beginnings in the new year.

Volunteers use that opportunity to remind everyone how our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ extends the best offer of Hope not just at New Years but every day of the year. There are certain times (and circumstances) in life when people stop to consider their life and where they’re headed.  We notice this every New Year, and we also see it at funerals, rescue shelters, and certainly in prison. I guess when you combine two (like New Years in prison) the effect may be more pronounced.

And like we tell the men, whatever it takes for God to get your attention, now that He has it, make the most of what He’s offering you!  Reminds me of 2 Cor 6:2 , “For God says, ‘At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you.’  Indeed, the ‘right time’ is now. Today is the day of salvation.”

We pray that today would be the day of salvation for every soul in Chester County Prison – men, women, staff, inmates – everyone.  And we extend that prayer to all of our families – I think we all have family members not walking with the Lord.  May God get their attention, and may their hearts respond “Yes!”

As always, we thank all of you for your prayers and support throughout 2024, and look forward to laboring side-by-side with you for the sake of the Gospel into 2025 and beyond – however long God will have us doing this!  May each of you be blessed beyond measure in this New Year.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Prayer Requests from last Thursday (12:00 Chapel Service, plus Inmate 1-1 sessions):

• Kenneth– spiritual growth.
• Ken– all people affected by wars – in Ukraine, Syria, Israel, etc.  Also for Native Americans and some land issues they are dealing with in Oklahoma.

• Kenny– thankful that Mom and Dad both back to work (after the flu). Safety for my brother going to Mexico in January for the first time.  Pray that my family and friends, like Frances and Jimmy, are all doing good. Pray my time continues to go smooth and fast.  Thankful that I’m able to save money from my maintenance job in here, where I don’t need family to send me any money.

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

• Rick C– for volunteer Matt – his wife has covid.  Also for my friend Milt on hospice who’s waiting to go home to the Lord – peace and comfort for he and his whole family.
• John– God please return us to our families soon.
• Scotty– my wife and kids, and for patience in court on Thursday. I have anger issues that get me into trouble, pray for peace in my heart.
• Daren– to stay sane in here, develop a stronger faith, and that our families are doing well out there.
• John #2– protect our families especially during the craziness of New Years celebrations, and may we all make a resolution to grow in faith this new year, and get to know Jesus if we don’t know Him.
• Jose– thanks for 2024 – all the good things and the bad things (learn from both).
• Phil T– my wife Dawn had some medical tests that turned out to be a false alarm.  Pray for her salvation.
• Dan T– for my brother-in-law, headed to a 1 month grief counseling session – his 18 year old son committed suicide 2 years ago and he blames himself. Continue to pray for chance to witness to him, and that he would accept Christ.  Pray he would know that Jesus can help him with his burden.

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

• Irvin– pray that God would clear me from all of this once I’m out – cleanse me.
• Logan– for all our families, that we may be reunited soon.  And thanks God for your grace.
• Elijah– for all in here, experiencing a real bad chapter in our life.  For my child’s mom who is really going through a tough time- pray for her.  For everyone to get a second chance and to turn from sin.
• Jeremiah– I go to trial Jan 9, pray for a fair outcome.  Continued healing for my sister Tamika (note – Apologies for misspelling her name the last few weeks).
• Keith– for my 83-year-old mom, God protect her – keep her safe and healthy.
• Troy– For young granddaughter of church friend (Nora) who broke her arm and had to have surgery – pray for healing and restoration.
• Wayne– for the homeless folks out there to find food and shelter.  And for those out there still using (drugs) to get the help they need.  Pray for my Aunt who’s been out there using for 42 years and having a rough time with failing health.
• Caleb– that things would go smoothly for us when we get out – that we keep following the Lord and stay in His Word.
• Brian– for my children and all our children to be on a better path.
• Andy D– for volunteer Matt’s wife with covid – pray for mild symptoms and not spreading.
• Ryan– for my buddy Greg – his wife has cancer and going through radiation treatments.  May they both be strong.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Chaplains Jack, Rhonda, and Heinrich – may God grant them all they need (and more) to minister effectively within Chester County Prison and beyond. May their home lives be blessed as well.
• Staff of Chester County Prison (especially leaders) – may they be blessed with strength and endurance as they deal daily with staff shortages and other issues. And may their home lives provide the support, rest, and peace they need to recharge after every shift.
• Volunteer opportunities to increase through resolution of staffing issues at the prison.
• Inmates and their families – blessings of peace, protection, comfort, and wisdom as they attempt to get along without each other.
• Prison volunteers – a renewed and refreshed spirit with boldness to meet every opportunity God provides to share the Gospel.
• Aftercare ministries – to experience abundance in support to continue ministering effectively and efficiently to released inmates rebuilding their lives on the outside.  God’s blessing upon each volunteer and client to each grow in faith.

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