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Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Last night at prison, due to circumstances beyond our control, we got inside very late. First service normally runs 7:00-8:15pm.  We finally got to the chapel around 7:25 to find inmates already seated (we normally welcome them in) and we scrambled to begin 25 minutes behind schedule. Plus our team leader was out sick, so I was volunteered to lead the service.  No pressure, right? All I had to do was compress our normal service (introduction, prayers, songs, testimonies, message), recalculate the timing, and do it all on the fly – what could go wrong?

We cut through the fluff and got right to the point- focused on the most important thing. I tossed out my normal intro and relied on God to give me the words – and He did.  I told the men we weren’t there to talk about religion or a bunch or rules, we’re there to promote a relationship with Jesus Christ – it’s the only way.  We are born into sin that the Bible says is a death sentence (The wages of sin is death, Rom 6.23) but God made a way out by sending His son Jesus to take that death penalty in our place, and offers us forgiveness and eternity in paradise with Him.  He wants us to commit to Him and be in relationship.

Quick and to the point, and the men responded!  The rest of the service went on without a hitch, because we put it in His hands.  Our simple goal is to honor and glorify God and spread the love of Jesus through the Gospel message.  I believe that’s what He wants, too.  And if we’re following God’s will, why wouldn’t He help us do that?  Makes sense, right?

Scripture tells us to love one another and to pray for others.  So when we lift up in prayer the inmates, chaplains, volunteers, and staff of Chester County prison each week, we’re doing God’s will.  Thank you for joining us in ministry at the prison, and supporting in various ways.  I pray you feel His approving presence as we do what He wants each week.  God bless you!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

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

• Austin– for my safe passage up state.
• Damon– for my Dad (Dennis) with a hard heart, and my Father-in-law (Jim) on his death bed- he’s in the hospital now and I hope for the chance to see him again.
• Diego– my fiance (Esmerelda), and daughter (Melina).
• Manuel– for my family, especially daughter (Sofia) and wife (Adriana), and for patience.
• Juan– family and friends, no news on a court date- to get a new date this month.
• Edison– family.
• Edgar– family and get a court date soon.
• Carlos– my family
• Roland– for God to instill in all of us daily more love and less anger.
• Andy– for changes to happen in the prison system where the legal process to get a court date would move much quicker, and for the men to be heard – current levels of communication is not good.
• Eugene– for God to restore these men’s love, joy, and peace from Him.  And for restoration of each man’s family.
• Rick– continued healing for Officer Steve, suffering with back pain.  Also for Roland and his upcoming heart testing- may results be normal.

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

• Troy– my entire family, forgiveness, and my daughter Lexus really on my heart- asking God to please soften her hard heart and get her out of a toxic lifestyle. Also for my cellmate going to court tomorrow and is really nervous.
• Brandon– for my family on the outside to be closer to Jesus, to find Him, and to prosper.
• Jonathan– forgiveness, my grandma, my family and loved ones all doing time as well as me.
• Julius– for strength, feeling defeated, lack of emotion. Thinking a lot about my Dad who passed away when I was in high school.  Thankful for the love from the Christian brotherhood in here.
• Mike– my family (wife and kids) and forgiveness.
• Avery– for God’s peace over every one of us, in our daily battles and if anyone going through long-term battles.
• John– my family and friends.
• Delron– for everyone here, forgiveness, my court date Thursday, been crying lately- been surrendering to God this week.  Waiting to leave once detainer lifted.  For my autistic son who can’t speak, and for my soon-to-be wife Carol, pray that she went home.
• Jim M– for all the guys who got out lately to stay grounded in the Word and find a Bible preaching church to be part of.  Also for my grandson who is autistic.
• Tim– for my family and my church family that supports me (I’m a musician on worship team).  Also for a retired minister at church (who also played piano) who recently passed away.
• Emmanuel– for all the single moms out there, that God would provide for them.
• Erwin J– my sister Elwyn going through cancer treatments.
• Paul– not to be confused, and for my sister and my Dad.
• Rick C– for our fearless leader Dan, not feeling well due to cancer meds he’s taking.

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

• Shane– intimacy w/God and to hear His voice
• Louis– inmates/staff
• Jose– for the guys on “E Block” to come together and bless their interactions
• Ivan– family
• David– everybody in here, kids/grandkids, favorable outcome w/sentencing 
• Koen– everybody in here including staff, family, girlfriend and her family, Ethan and his family
• Andy– for a continuous reminder of 1 Corinthians 13
• Jason– everybody in the world, upcoming court dates and favorable outcomes
• Ryan– my son Will just broke up with his significant other, coping skills/strength, turn to the Lord during this difficult time
• Matt– Gerald and Cheryl’s health, patience/understanding so I can be a better husband and father
• Bill H– thanks for encouraging messages each week in prayer Email. Hope to be home 4/21 for a couple of weeks, then get second PET scan for comparison- Pancreatic cancer requires ongoing monitoring/treatments. Praying for God’s guidance as I look at options.

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, heading chaplaincy at Chester County Prison, and for the prison leaders within his mission field, and his personal strength and healing from cancer.
• The Volunteers ministering to inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The Families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Onesimus Ministries Board of Directors, clarity on mission, and integration of a few new board members.
• The Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County.

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Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Hope is essential. And where we place our hope is critical.  Hope in the Lord Jesus Christ is powerful, and we were reminded of that throughout church services last night in the prison.  It was great to see inmates encouraging one another with the Hope of the Gospel, and spurring each other on in their faith in God’s ability to hear and answer prayers. 

Collecting prayer requests each week can be draining, as we hear of all the great need, but then testimony time can turn it all around as each man expresses confidence in what God is doing in his life or his family’s lives. Hearing such testimonies is a joy to every volunteer, confirming that we’re in the right place, and making a difference.  Thank you, Lord, for such inspiring moments – may there be many more in our future!

And thank you for your unspoken inspiration to these men in prison.  We remind them each week how many people they may never meet care about them and pray for them faithfully all week long.  I’m sure it factors into the hope they have.  We are all part of this ministry, just like we are all parts of the Body of Christ, and it works so well when we each do what we’re called to do.  Thanks for following your calling to support them (and us) in so many ways!  You are a blessing.  Be blessed, in Jesus’ name!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

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

• Edison– family, my court date coming up this week.
• Diego– my daughter (Melina), fiance (Esmerelda), my parent’s support, and to have a strong faith when I get out to stay on the right path and not stray away.
• Juan– my parents, and get a new court date this month.
• Manuel– for my family, especially daughter (Sofia) and wife (Adriana), and help to wait on God.
• Carlos– my family
• Edgar– family and court date.
• Andrew– for me to get into rehab, for Scott who was transferred to Elk County, for Mink to get the right lawyer and reduced sentence, and for Harry that all goes well with his gag order and probation violation case.
• Andy– for God to draw many unsaved people to church on Easter Sunday and they would surrender their lives to Jesus.  Also for rain to hold off – we’re having outdoor services Sunday in community park.
• Eugene– for God to touch the president’s heart, and bring peace to the nations.
• Rick– healing for Officer Steve suffering with back pain.

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

• Julius– for me and Nelson in court tomorrow, my attorney says I have a new deal coming down, pray it’s better than last one.  Also for friend Austin who went home today, and that we may all get home soon.
• Austin– for my kids, and to be reunited with family soon, and that we all walk the path with Jesus.
• Delron– thankful for blessings from God, pray my detainer is lifted and go home tomorrow.  Also for Nelson and my cellmate, for my non-verbal autistic son to speak, for all of us in here to get through our trials and tribulations.  Thanks God for hearing our prayers.
• Jonathan– forgiveness from God, my grandmother, family, and my neighbor Jim’s mom is in hospice- pray for them.
• Brandon– my brother and girlfriend got out this month and last month, that they are doing well. Thanks that my homeless cousins (Marissa and Leah) got a home.
• Troy– my wife, my entire family, forgiveness, for the 4 men on the block that just went home – God answers prayers! – and for my cousin Tyrone putting money on my commissary account for months, a real blessing.
• Mike– for my wife Robin, daughter Hannah, sons Michael and Gavin – all having a rough time.
• Jose– volunteer Jim having cancer surgery on 27th, and for the salvation of all souls in this facility.
• Paul– family, parents, friends, schools teaching the Word, like the beatitudes- many struggle with understanding, help us to understand.
• Nelson– my daughter Melani, and that we would all keep asking and relying on God for answers.
• Jim– for my high school buddy Dave, had surgery for pancreatic cancer a week ago, pray for his health.
• Stefan– family, friends, everyone in here, for everyone to have a great day and with their court dates, and for my brother Alex.  A bunch of us had a struggle yesterday, but we overcame it, thank God.
• Erwin– my sister Elwyn has cancer.
• Phil– my pregnant daughter and husband got results from genetic testing, we were very worried, all results were good- thanks be to God!  May we all trust God for our test results – He is so good.  Also praying for those couples struggling to get pregnant.
• Avery– my youngest son (Romeo) is autistic and non-verbal, he is starting therapy in school.

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

• Jason– pray for everyone in prison
• Jodie– pray for his mom who is in a care home and pray for his son, who was just sentenced to prison
• Matt– pray for the guys in prison
• Cohen– pray for the men in prison and his family, especially his grand pop who just had heart surgery
• Azon– pray for his girlfriend
• Alan– pray for his mom Rosa who is in Chester County rehab w dementia, pray for his wife Inga whose father recently passed away.
• Tyreek– pray for everyone’s families
• Dave– pray for his case and the uncertainty of his future
• Emerald-pray for the victims of domestic violence and the survivors
• Jose– [he did not speak English but I sensed a very sweet spirit within him….pray for his salvation and discipleship if not saved]
• Andy– pray for friend’s salvation/ Rebecca
• Matt– pray for Cheryl and Geralds health
• Shane– pray for wisdom in his marriage

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, heading chaplaincy at Chester County Prison, and for the prison leaders within his mission field, and his personal strength and healing from cancer.
• The Volunteers ministering to inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The Families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Onesimus Ministries Board of Directors, clarity on mission, and harmony as a few new board members join the mix.
• The Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County.

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Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Where do you go, and what do you rely upon when you get bad news? For example, when a loved one passes away, or you receive shocking medical information, where do you find comfort? Where do you find peace? For anyone that doesn’t know Christ, I have no idea where they might find those things.

I can’t imagine how anyone can navigate the difficult times in life without the hope we have in Christ; Knowing that our Heavenly Father is in control, and cares about us deeply.  Knowing one day He will make all things right, and someday every believer will experience no more pain, no more death, no more sorrow; Because we will be with Him in paradise.  That’s what Jesus promised the thief on the cross next to Him, and it’s true for us as well (if He is Lord of our life).

Several believer friends and family members received bad news lately, and I can encourage them with God’s promises and wisdom from His Word. But what can we say to those without faith that struggle with bad news?  That’s a tough one.  We’re called to love them, and perhaps the best way is to share the source of our hope and peace, and they too can find those things in Jesus.  I’ve heard criticism that it’s inappropriate discussing faith in really bad situations, like it’s insulting to the hurting person or something.  I disagree – it may be exactly what they need, and perhaps God finally has their attention to think about such things.  In any case, we must seek the Holy Sprit’s wisdom on how to best proceed, and approach such situations with gentleness, respect, and above all, love.

Thank you for joining us each week as we pray that all inmates know Jesus, as well as praying their specific requests below.  You are a light to them in a very dark place.  The time and effort you spend in prayer for them is never in vain, God is moving all the time.  Isn’t it cool to be part of what He is doing?  Have a blessed holy week, and a wonderful resurrection Sunday.  He is risen, He is risen indeed!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

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

• Officer Steve– significant back pain.
• Diego– thankful for some good news- withdrawn charge. Also  to continue to stay close to God, and for my family, especially my daughter Melina (5).
• Edison– familia.
• Juan– family, parents, court date.
• Manuel–  for my family – daughter Sofia and wife Adriana.
• Edgar– family, court date.
• Joe– for my Mom, that she’s doing good, and my dog, and that things will go well for me – I was on the run for 3 years.  For my ability to thrive.
• Andrew– for my friends Scott, Rich, Harry, and for me as we have court on Tue.  For God to put me where He wants me, and maybe that means rehab.
• Harry– for court on Tue.
• Andy– healing for my back.
• Roland– healing for loved ones.
• Rick– for Roland’s biopsy results to come back clear- no cancer.  Thankful for son’s foot healing and feeling better, and doctor’s OK to continue with Tarzan show.
• Eugene– for our pop-up Jesus rally in Philly on Saturday- Lord have your way.

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

• Stefan– thanks for prayers last week for my brother (El) with bone cancer, continued prayers for healing.
• Delron– my 14 year old son is autistic and non-verbal, pray for his first word to be spoken, and for my court date to hopefully result in me going home.
• Jonathan– family, forgiveness, God to stay with me as I’m headed to state prison.
• Tim– my sister has shoulder surgery coming up, and I have court on Wed.
• Paul– for teachers to be clear in teaching, for understanding, not being overwhelmed or confused, for guilt, thanks for this safe place.
• Nelson– my daughter (Malani), forgiveness, everyone in here.
• Troy– for my entire family, especially my wife that supports me, I have 23 days until my court date and I’m a bit anxious. [NOTE: I shared Philippians 4:6-7 with him]
• Mike– family, forgiveness, I was just sentenced to 23 months, so I’ll be around for a while, help me stay positive.
• Josh– family, strength.
• Jim McCoach– for everyone here to know Jesus as savior.  I was recently diagnosed with colon cancer after masses found during colonoscopy.  Had smaller ones removed, biopsy negative so far, surgery coming up to remove large mass, docs worried it’s cancer.
• Erwin– for my sister (Elwyn) with cancer, and for my Sister-in-law (Lenora) who just lost her 2nd son in 3 years to a heart attack.
• Phil– healing for 2nd service volunteer (Bill) with cancer, and for our own volunteers Jim and Dan.
• Jose– for all the men going home to continue in faith with a Bible-preaching church, and for favorable outcomes with court dates.
• Dan– praise God for my latest PSA score (for prostate cancer) came back 0.03

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

• Artemio– family, people in jail, workers in the jail, my life, and to get out early.
• Joe– family, grandfather has cancer, pray for his health and the whole family’s health.
• Azon– for wisdom and for the Holy Spirit to draw him.
• Coen– my mom, two brothers, and stepdad- that they’re all doing OK. Brother cut his hand, grandfather has surgery on Wed, for my aunt’s foot, brother’s girlfriend, prisoners, and all the guys here.
• David– kids and grandkids, court decision, getting sentenced in a month, gentlemen in prison.
• Chris– mother and my kids (boys), pray I’m out of here this week.
• Corey– my daughter, pray for Doyle who recently lost son and daughter.
• Jason– spiritual clarity, for family, guardian angels to protect my wife, grandma, and mother, for everybody here, and one true religion.
• Matt– for Gerald to heal and gain strength, for Cheryl, Carl’s wife, sister-in-law Nicki, mother in law to lean on the Lord.
• Ryan– for Janice.
• Daniel– to get the monkey off his back – bound by alcohol, feeling hopeless and broken. He shared how he’s ruined relationships, including his marriage and he’s given up. May he know the love and mercy of Jesus.
• Andy– for a spirit of self-control.

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 the chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, for the prison leaders within his mission field, and his personal strength and healing from cancer.
• All the Volunteers ministering to inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The Families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Onesimus Ministries Board of Directors, clarity on mission, and thankful for God’s provision of new board members.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County.

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Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

If you keep up with all the news, no doubt you’re convinced our world is complete chaos.  If you pay no attention to news, you may be in peaceful oblivion.  I don’t advocate for either extreme, but I highly recommend staying fully connected to the One who’s in control of all things.  Reading His Word, you will find He is our Strength, our Solace, our Hope, our Shelter, our Refuge.  In Him we can fully trust, for He is unchanging, and the Source of peace that transcends all understanding.  He wants us to lay our burdens upon Him, since He already paid the price for us.

When those around us are nervous, scared, or losing their minds over the latest events, we can serve the Lord by demonstrating peaceful contentment.  And when the question comes – “how can we be so calm in the face of what’s happening in the world?” – we have the opportunity to point them to the One who holds all things together, and offers them hope and peace, through His limitless forgiveness, mercy, grace, and love.  I believe as followers of Christ, that’s what we’re supposed to do.

Thank you all for your great example of being praying people. Staying connected to our great God benefits the pray-er as well as those being prayed for.  May you be so blessed as you lift up the prayer requests below.  Be assured, you are doing Kingdom work, and we are all grateful.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

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

• Jerron– my fiance (LePaige), finally got a court date for 4/22- pray it all goes well.  For my family, my kids, for strength, and focus.
• Edgar– for family, all the inmates, and those going through a hard time in the hospital.
• Edison– familia.
• Diego– my family and friends, and strength to finish up in here.
• Juan– family, friends, my court date on 25th.
• Manuel– for my family – daughter Sofia and wife Adriana. Still waiting for outcome of case – God’s timing is perfect – I’m waiting on Him.
• Carlos– my family, strength in prayer and my faith in God, to get out.
• Andy– unsaved family members, and a spirit of self-control.
• Eugene– for God to restore these men through His love for them, and that He would restore their families.
• Roland– praise for good medical report from yearly ultrasound and checkup, prayers for the biopsy next Tuesday.
• Rick– pray for healing of my son’s foot- injured during gymnastics training for upcoming theater role of Tarzan. Doc says slight fracture.  Show opens in 2 weeks. Please pray for quick healing and that “the show can go on” with him involved. 

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

• Josh– for my grandfather.
• Andrew– my court date tomorrow, and my cellmate Scott has court in 2 weeks, and salvation for all the men on all the blocks – praying for revival at CCP.
• Harry– my court date tomorrow.
• Kevin– that all the folks on homeless status can find shelter.
• Paul– for understanding, and for all those who feel confused and overwhelmed.  For our legal systems and leaders in State government, and that all would go well in court for me.
• Phil T– for Rick’s daughter and husband, as well as other couples  trying to conceive, such as Andre/Nicole, and Thomas/Josie.  Also for Paul and his son Travis to be released this month, both are discouraged since it got pushed back.
• Erwin– my sister (Elwyn) now undergoing treatment for late-stage colon cancer.
• Troy– for family, finally got a court date on Apr 21, and my daughter Lexus.
• John– for forgiveness, and that all would go well at my sentencing tomorrow.
• William– had some good news in court today- finding a place to help me out.  I also want to repent for my sins.
• Austin– strength for my family, as my grandmother passed yesterday.  Also pray that my kids get back in my life soon – Landon, Cameron, Rylyn, and Mylee.
• Nelson– forgiveness, especially for outbursts of anger. Pray court will go well tomorrow, and that I’ll get home soon to my 10 month old daughter.
• Stefan– my family, everyone in the world to be blessed, for my brother with bone cancer- that his last treatment will help him, hasn’t seemed to work so far.  To get home soon to family, and to be a better man.
• Julius– for everyone in court tomorrow, and for my case- I was presented a deal, hoping to get a much better deal, for all my upcoming court dates (he mentioned appeals, motions, etc.)
• Mike– family, forgiveness, nervous about court tomorrow.
• Brandon– court tomorrow, was pushed back 3 times and hopefully not again, pray for light to be shed in my case.  For my brother Clarence who recently got our- that He would be walking with God.  And for my little brother Ricky and my “daughter” Nana.
• Avery– for Unity, among us and in our families, and encouragement for those around us.

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

• Chris– family mom and 2 sons. Get out soon.
• Artemio– family, daughter and grandparents in Mexico. For his mom who is in the states. Time goes quickly and that they can rely on the Lord.
• Dave– going upstate, good transition connect with the right people. Give him a plan for moving forward these next 7 months.
• Justin– one day at a time, move forward and build faith.
• Erving– Bless his mother and work on him while he is here.
• Alan– his wife lost her father this week. Pray for peace. Also pray the Terlingo family can forgive him for the death of their son in a car accident they were in together.
• Jason– guidance and understanding watch out for his loved ones.
• Tyrek– pray for his girlfriend and her boys. Pray that God would direct his spirit towards good and peace and he can get out next month.
• Cam– his wife grandma Carolyn who had a stroke. Pray for recovery and protection.
• Kevin– gets out soon, get on the trial list. Kids. That he becomes a better man and for his significant other.
• Eric– guys here- pray for guidance to get out soon. Resolution moving forward.
• Matt– Gerald is in hospital infection in knee doesn’t spread.
• Jose– salvation in both sessions for both prisoners and officers.
• Ryan– guide him for God to use.

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 the chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, for the prison leaders within his mission field, and his personal strength and healing from cancer.
• All the Volunteers ministering to inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The Families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Onesimus Ministries Board of Directors, thankful for God’s provision of new board members.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County.

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Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Downingtown schools closed early yesterday, I believe it was due to the severe thunderstorms that were predicted to hit our area.  I’m amazed how much stock we put into man-made predictions like driving directions and weather forecasts.  And how often are those weather predictions wrong?

We trust so easily in man-made predictions even when we’re let down over and over.  How about God’s promises and predictions?  Where do those rank in our lives? Most Biblical prophesies have already come true.  Jesus himself fulfilled over 300 prophecies about the coming Messiah.  All that’s left in Biblical prophecy are things yet to come. Can we count on them?  Oh yeah.

Funny – we don’t hesitate to rely almost daily on predictions that are often proven wrong.  How often do we think about (and share) God’s promises which have been proven true and reliable over and over?  Do you think God wants us to think about (and share) them more often than we do?  Who in your life could use some Good News today?  Why not share the very best news?

Thank you all for your daily and weekly prayer support, so vitally important as the Chaplains and volunteers share the love of Jesus throughout the prison.  Providing this “top cover” is more important than you may think.  The enemy prowls around looking for souls to devour (1 Pe 5.8), and prison is a target-rich environment. Please remain vigilant with your prayer covering all aspects of this prison ministry. God bless your efforts!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

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

• Jerron– my fiance (LePaige), my family, my kids, for strength, courage, focus, my salvation, and my lawyers and judges to have understanding and compassion.
• Manuel– for all to go well tomorrow in court- to get sent home to my wife (Adriana) and daughter (Sofia).  For wisdom to make good decisions.
• Juan– my family, my sister, to get released after my court date on 26th.
• Roland– for better communication when men are being called for church services, so that everyone who wants to come has the opportunity.
• Eugene– there will be a “pop-up” rally for Jesus at City Hall in Philadelphia on the 28th, pray for massive impact and many souls saved.
• Andy– unsaved family members, and greater self-control.
• Rick– thankful for son’s safe return from Antarctica, pray for his walk with the Lord. Also for my daughter and her husband trying to conceive.

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

• Jonathan– my family, especially my grandmom (62) who is very frustrated right now.
• Ryan– for my family to continue to heal and start talking again.
• Troy– for my family, especially guidance and direction for my daughter Lexus, now down in South Carolina with my wife. Thankful they were both able to get out of Coatesville.
• John– I lost my trial, praying for mercy in my sentencing and appeal, and for my family.
• Chuck– missed the bus to State prison, want to get the next bus and get moving on my journey through the system so it can be done, need to move on from Chester County Prison.  Also for Tim who keeps saying he wants to come to church but keeps backing out.
• Mike– for my family, and forgiveness.
• Phil– I’m in a bad place, and I know I’ve done wrong.  I’ve been away from my faith for many years but when I heard the call for church I felt I should come.  I need forgiveness for the bad I’ve done.
• Brandon– for my brother Clarence that just got out, for Julius back on the block who couldn’t make it out tonight, for “Bones” on N-block, and for “G-dog” over on R-block.

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

• Matt R– in-laws health (Gerald and Sheryl), and Jackie’s dad named Sarge, for his health.
• David– for the men in the room, his children and grandchildren, his court date, and he is hoping that the court allows him to go to a Christian center called Liberty.
• Eric– his family, wisdom, and that he would grow closer to God.
• Koen– for his grandfather, mom & stepdad, brothers, that he would grow closer to God, and that God would help is mind slow down.
• Frank– for his mom (87) and dad (85).
• Jason– Family, His friend Vince, Guidance and wisdom
• Joseph– kids, family.
• Eskine– family issues, next steps / fate.
• Brect– For his faith and that God would hear his prayers, That we would hear God.
• Andy– Unsaved family members, For a new belt.
• Shane– Wisdom / Understanding, Clear focus

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 the chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, for the prison leaders within his mission field, and his personal strength and healing from cancer.
• All the Volunteers ministering to inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The Families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Onesimus Ministries Board of Directors, thankful for God’s provision of new board members.
• Aftercare ministries and post-prison support organizations throughout Chester County.

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’re walking with the Lord, isn’t it great how we can be inspired by the simplest thing and it draws us to thinking about our great God?  As I experience this absolutely beautiful day, the sunshine and warm temperature give me such a lift, and everything in me says “thank you, LORD!  It’s all from you, and we don’t deserve it, but thank you so much!”

Of course that reminds me what we truly DO deserve – the wages of sin is death (Rom 6:23). BUT GOD loves us so much He made a way by sending His son to take our death penalty, and exchange our sin for His righteousness.  And not because of anything we’ve done, but because of who HE is – for God is love (1 Jn 4:8).  An incredible offer we’d be stupid not to accept, yet so many don’t bother with it.  After all, it’s only your eternal destination at stake.

We need to help more people wake up to the fact that God designed our souls to live forever, and there are only 2 eternal destinations – with God (heaven) or without God (lake of fire, a.k.a Hell).  With your eternal destination at stake, doesn’t it deserve even the most basic research?  Yet so many are deluded that hell doesn’t really exist, or we all get to go to heaven, or other non-Biblical nonsense.

“Father, please help us wake up our families, friends, and neighbors to reality and the Truth.  Give us the opportunities and the right words that will snap people out of their delusions to an invitation to be in paradise with You forever by following Jesus – the Way, the Truth, and the Life.”

Thank you for all your prayers for the salvation and wellbeing of inmates in Chester County Prison, as well as for the Chaplains, staff, and volunteers.  We are blessed by your dedication to praying each week.  God bless you!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

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

• Manuel– understanding, more patience, wisdom to make good decision on the deal I’m offered.  To always respond in love, and tomorrow is my Dad’s birthday. And as always, for my wife Adriana and my daughter Sofia.
• Juan– for my court date Thursday, and to make good decisions.
• Edison– for my family.
• Carlos– to have communication with my family, I’ve had none since arriving here.
• Edgar– for my court date and to make good decisions, for my family, and all the inmates and their families.
• Diego– for my daughter Melina (5), we’ve never been apart this long.
• Andy– for unsaved family members.
• Roland– thankful that court dates are happening for the many guys who were waiting with no information.
• Eugene– for all the inmates loved ones who miss them, and when each man gets out, he will take his rightful position with his family.
• Rick– for my son’s safe return from Antarctica, and my daughter’s anxiety about flying as she and her husband travel to Nashville to visit family.

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

• Chuck– hoping my cellmate gets to leave in the next few days, he’s a good guy.  Also hope to get word Monday about the bus to State prison, want to get moving to get this done.
• Ron– for my stepson, and to stay on the right path towards God when I get out of here.  Pray for the good of all the men when they get out.
• Ben– thankful for my trial today where I got no felonies, and should be out tomorrow if my housing paperwork gets approved. Praying it all goes well.
• John– for our families and friends, and my trial tomorrow.
• John #2– for my sons Keegan and Jameson, to be forgiven, and my whole family.
• Brandon– my brother Clarence on F-block gets out on 13th, pray he stays on the path.
• Troy– pray for all those praying for me, thankful my daughter Lexis out of Coatesville and made it down south to stay with my sister in North Carolina, pray for my wife, and that I get a court date soon. Also for my brother Jimmie in Coatesville to join his family down south.
• Mike– for my court date at the end of this month, and for my wife Robin, daughter Hannah, and sons Michael and Gavin.
• Dan T– for my cancer treatments that are messing up the systems in my body like dizziness and hot flashes.  Pray it would smooth out.  Also for the 4 volunteers who missed the renewal deadline on re-certification, that their paperwork and the process be expedient to get them back in as soon as possible.
• Jose– for the salvation of all the souls in Chester County Prison, both inmates and staff.

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

• Jos?– to get out soon, continue to go to church and stay out of jail.
• Dave– my relationship with the Lord, repentance, consistency, and faith.
• Frank– stress over mom and dad.
• Shane– renewal of joy with Lord. Good performance at the show this Friday.
• Matt– health for my in-laws. For Jackie, her father Sarge’s health. His wife Carrie more appreciation at work.
• Andy– Sarah and Lori struggling with cancer, for hope and peace during this time.
• Ryan– his wife Janice menopause.
• Shaun– peace and reconciliation with in-laws.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

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

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,

In my prayer time this morning, I was contemplating how great is our God, how His ways and intelligence are so much higher than ours, and He created all we can see (and even what we can’t see).  He created the universe and everything in it, and ordered it a certain way. He created the system we live within, and established rules and laws for us (and all nature) to follow.  Then why is it so many don’t even recognize Him, let alone the system He’s created for us?  Instead, mankind creates our own systems, with our own rules and laws, which we’re made to believe are easier or better, yet are actually harder to live within and succeed.  We become more concerned with doing well and succeeding within our man-made systems than looking at what God has for us.

Why don’t we see it?  What is blocking our view?  What (or should I say who) is leading us down a different path?  God’s Word reveals the sources of corruption – the world, the flesh, and the devil.

I’m thankful for all those whom God has allowed to see beyond our present circumstances, to recognize Him as our most High King, and seek Him above all else (or at least try to). How do we tell others of the great delusion they are under, and how God has such a better path for them? O Lord, please grant us the wisdom, insight, and boldness to share all about you with those around us.  May we be the sweet aroma of Christ, inviting others to experience your forgiveness and peace.  Please show us how to do that in our everyday lives.

Actually, that’s our goal in the prison, and we thank you for praying us up to do that kingdom work.  And thank you for praying for all involved – the chaplains, volunteers, staff members, inmates, and their families.  You are a key element to the success of this ministry – keep it up!  And may God bless you richly for it!

Grace and Peace,

Rick

Female Inmate Prayer Requests from Chaplain Rhonda:

K. T. – physically bruised and battered, confused and depressed; wanting to learn more about God and His will for her life

E. S. – military vet struggling with post-traumatic stress that’s led to many problems and previous incarcerations; wanting to make a real change and grow closer to God

R. H. – dealing with mental health issues; isolated and alone here in prison; has “no friends”

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

• Shaun– court date next Thursday, for my kids, and everyone here, and hopefully get out soon (been here 8 months).  Also for my buddy Nick who is very depressed and needs encouragement and restoration.
• Chad– court date next week, trying to get home.
• Rich– to still have my job at Burger King when I get out next week, and for God to straighten out my path.
• Manuel– my family, especially daughter Sofia and my wife Adriana.
• Juan– get out soon, and for family.
• Carlos– familia, to be released soon, court date next week.
• Alan– my kids.
• Jerron– my fianc? (LePaige), for understanding, my lawyer, my court date, and to know what’s going on with my case.  Asking for clarity, strength, and temperament.
• Andy– unsaved family members.
• Eugene– for the ability to clearly share the Gospel in some upcoming speaking engagements.
• Roland– for the men to have undivided hearts, and softened hearts, full of the Spirit of God.
• Rick– for my son Kyle travelling to Antarctica, my daughter’s anxiety about flying as she and her husband travel to Texas for a wedding, and they are also trying to conceive.

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

• Julius– court date tomorrow (3rd time it was pushed back), hoping to have detainer lifted and be able to go home soon.  Also for my friend Vishyon who just went home – that he stays on the straight and narrow.
• Ron– for my stepson, all in here, thankful I’m leaving on the 15th.  Also for my friend Mike to get a court date.
• John– my friend Jermain who came to this service got out 2 weeks ago, hope he’s staying clean.  Also for God to forgive me, and for His love to be over my family.
• Chuck– my girlfriend is really going through it, I’ll be incarcerated another 35 months and she’s on her own for that time.  Hope I can make parole and get home a little sooner.
• Ben– my cellmate Dave is going to rehab on Wed.
• Mike– my wife Robin, daughter Hannah, sons Michael and Gavin, and for forgiveness.
• Troy– so thankful my wife is out of Coatesville and with her sister in North Carolina, pray for a court date soon.
• Ron #2–  Praying for a new beginning- I’m tired of the cycle of being in and out and coming back to jail. 
• John #2– I have my court date on the 10th, and pray for my family.
• Brandon– for my brother Clarence over on F block, he’s getting out on the 13th.  For my Dad and little brother Ricky who were living in a hotel but now in a house.  And for me to possibly get out this month or next month.
• Phil T– for my pregnant daughter who may be a carrier for genetic issue – she and her husband have had genetic testing and we pray for good results, and a healthy, happy baby, and a normal pregnancy with Mom and baby doing well.
• Rick C– for volunteer Dan’s cancer treatments wreaking havoc with his body, and praise that his cancer is in remission once more.

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

• Cilas– pray for Mom and Jude. Favorable outcome at court.
• Tino– prayers for his two kids, ages 5 and 2.
• Jose– court on Friday, help with anxiety.
• Shane– my marriage
• Andy– for Lori and Sarah, both struggling with cancer. Prayer for peace and healing for them and their family.
• Jim– direction for his youngest daughter.
• Troy– favorable outcome for a ding on his financial record.
• Ryan– prayer for his friend Maryann who lost her husband on Sunday. Also pray for their daughter Taylor.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

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

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,

Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful – the fire I’m talking about is the Holy  Spirit of God within each Believer.  Where would we be without Him?  He gives us clear direction on what is right and what is wrong.  It’s no wonder our world is so messed up, with the vast majority of people not having God’s Spirit directing them.  Moral relativism rules the day. “That’s your truth, or that’s my truth, and there are no absolutes”. Hogwash. The Truth is absolute and narrow. 

We hear some interesting beliefs in the prison, causing us to consistently preach that all roads do not lead to God, nor to heaven.  In fact, Jesus tells us says in Matthew 7:13-14 “Wide is the gate and broad is the path that leads to destruction for the many who choose that way, but narrow is the gate and difficult the road that leads to life for the few who find it.” That’s got to break God’s heart, to know how few people will seek and find salvation, even after He sent Jesus to show us the Way and even die in our place to pay the penalty for our sins.

As followers of Christ, it’s our job (yes, all of us) to inform people there is a right path, and invite them to join us on it.  The Way of Jesus leads to eternal life, all other roads lead to Hell.  Eternal torment is no trivial matter, yet most people don’t want to think about it, much less talk about it.  The destination of anyone’s eternal soul is important enough to have that conversation. You can always start with “I love you and want to make sure I see you in Heaven.”  That’s how I began that conversation with my Mom before she passed away. Comfortable or not, we must have those conversations.

Although the snow closed the prison for services last night, we must still pray for the men and women inside, both inmates and staff, and their eternal destinations.  Thanks as always for joining us on this missional journey, you are much appreciated!  Keep warm and God bless your week.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

PS. – Last chance!  Only a few seats left for the Onesimus Benefit Breakfast this coming Saturday, Feb 28, 9:00am at Waterway Church in Oxford. 

Reserve your spot today for a delicious free Breakfast. [click here] for registration and details.

Prayer Requests from Chaplain Heinrich

Please pray for:

• Two Inmates in the prison, each associated with a high-profile case. Other inmates know of the horrific atrocities committed.  One of these inmates has a testimony of becoming a believer. 

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

• Harry– Strength, forgiveness, my family, my lawyer, and patience.
• Jerron– my fianc? (LePaige), for consistency, understanding, family and friends, and for my lawyer to have a greater sense of urgency.
• Andy– for positive changes to occur in the prison system – better communications between inmates and their attorneys.  Also for endurance during the long times of waiting.
• Manuel– my family, especially daughter Sofia and my wife Adriana.  And it’s my birthday today.
• Carlos– familia, and to be released soon.
• Roland– for all the inmates to experience the presence of Jesus in their lives throughout the week.
• Rick– for Rozie and the Kreider family on the loss of our dear brother Jim.

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

• (Services cancelled due to snowstorm)

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

• (Services cancelled due to snowstorm)

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

• Thankful for church partnerships, like Waterway Church hosting our 2nd Annual Benefit Breakfast on Feb 28th.
• Chaplain Heinrich, and all male inmates and staff within his mission field.
• Chaplain Rhonda, and all female inmates and staff within her mission field.
• Chaplain Jack Crans, as he leads chaplaincy program at Chester County Prison, and for prison leaders within his mission field. Also personal strength and healing from cancer.
• All the Volunteers ministering to the inmates at Chester County Prison.
• The Families supporting each inmate, staff member, chaplain, and volunteer.
• Onesimus Ministries Board of Directors, and provision of some new members.
• 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,

We got word that our dear brother Jim Kreider went home to be with the Lord on Thursday morning.  I can think of no one who embodied prison ministry volunteerism more than Jim.  He served at Chester County Prison for over 40 years before advanced age made him stop.  Every Monday night he drove 45 minutes from his home in Lancaster county to the prison, served in 2 worship services, then drove 45 minutes home late at night.  Early on, that was after a full day at work.  Jim also served on the Board of Directors for Onesimus Prison Ministries, and his wife Rozie was secretary for many years.

Jim had such a heart for people.  He wanted everyone to know the love and forgiveness of his Savior, and didn’t hesitate to show it. Though soft spoken, he was always the gentleman, and spoke very clearly on his faith.  Jim amazed me with his ability to memorize and recite from memory long passages of scripture, like some of the psalms in their entirety.

Jim led the second service on Monday nights as long as I can remember.  He led by example, the way good leaders do.  Jim always had a smile on his face, and seemed genuinely glad to see you.  You felt welcome in his presence. We will miss our dear brother, but will see him again on the other side.  I have zero doubt that Jim is now mingling with the prophets and saints who have gone before us, worshipping in the very presence of God.

For now, we can only imagine what that will be like, but we know it will be awesome, and like our Heavenly Father, we want everyone to have that opportunity.  Thank you for praying so many into the Kingdom.  Our prayers are meaningful, and God delights in them.  Thank you for weekly lifting up the chaplains, staff, volunteers, and inmates. Won’t it be great to have people come up to us in heaven and tell us they are there because of us?  God bless your week.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

PS. – Limited seating, but there’s a few spots left for the Onesimus Benefit Breakfast on Saturday, Feb 28, 9:00am at Waterway Church in Oxford. 

Reserve your spot now for a delicious free Breakfast. [click here] for registration and details.

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

• Shaun– court date on the 5th, pray I can get home after sitting 8 months in here.
• Joseph– please soften the heart of my girl Kelly.
• Dave– my family.
• Joe– my Dad.
• Manuel– my family, and to find out what is going on with my case.  My daughter Sofia and my wife Adriana.
• John– my daughter and family.
• Jerron– my fianc? Paige, I got another lawyer – this is the third one.  For understanding, comfort, and peace.  And for Andy to have peace with what he’s going through.
• Carlos– family, to get a new lawyer.
• Howdie– help me through this ordeal.
• Frank– my case in court next Friday to be dismissed or thrown out.
• Rick– for Roland’s biopsy results to show no cancer, and for God to prepare him and wife Deb for whatever comes next.
• Roland– for each man here to feel the presence of Jesus as they live their life this week.
• Eugene– for all incarcerated men and women, that the Lord would give them a desire for new life.
• Andy– for the Kreider family, especially Rozie with the loss of her husband Jim. Also salvation for my brother Jeff (also dealing with clots) and sister Donna (struggling with cancer).

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

• Ron– I get out in a few weeks, for my son, stepson, brother, and that we can all get out soon and stay clean.
• Jonathan– court date tomorrow, they offered me a deal Friday, hoping for lighter sentence, wisdom on choosing, asking forgiveness, lifting up loved ones.
• Troy– for everyone here, lots of men have court date soon, pray it goes well.  Pray for my wife, we miss each other dearly, my daughter Lexis, and my niece Kilani, and my entire family.  My mom passed 12 years ago today. Thankful for some newcomers we invited to church and they came. Pray for those getting out soon that can’t wait to enjoy their families.
• Jermain– court date tomorrow, hopefully get released, need help with anger struggles – asking Lord to help me get rid of it.  Also for my fianc? Gwen having migraines, heal her pain, and for my parents and my kids.
• Julius– for everyone in court tomorrow (big day), for my court date next Tue, pray all goes well and my public defender gets me a good deal.  Also for my sister-in-law who’s 8 months pregnant to have a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery next month, andthat I’ll be able to see my new nephew. Pray for my brother who won’t because of a ‘no contact’ order on him.  Also thanks for strength to keep going after my Dad’s death a year ago this week.
• Jameel– health and freedom, fairness in court- some of us are innocent, we all made mistakes.  I need to get back to family, but God is most important and our lives are second.
• Mike– my wife Robin, daughter Hannah, sons Michael and Gavin, and for forgiveness.
• Jim M– my son Jacob doesn’t respond to my calls.  Still thankful for Dan’s brother-in-law accepting Christ after we prayed for him over 2 years.
• Chuck– my girlfriend is stressed out thinking about my 3 year sentence.  I’m hoping the bus comes tomorrow so I can get this sentence done at state prison.  Pray I stay out after this, I’ve done 20 years total in my life and never want to return to prison.
• Brandon– my brother Clarence on F-block gets out next month, for my Dad Earl and my little brother Ricky living in hotels- pray their living situation gets better, and I have court tomorrow.
• Phil T– thanks for Joy and Andrew’s twins finally home from hospital, pray for them being a bit overwhelmed caring for the twins.  Thankful my wife healing well from broken collar bone, and grandson Cubby surgery for sleep apnea went well and he’s back home. Pray for all these men to stay engaged in God’s Word when they get out.
• Dan T– for the family of Jim Kreider who passed away last week.
• Ben– for my Dad (Bob) who had his 81st birthday the other day but now is sick, pray for him and the family.
• Jose– for the salvation of all the souls within the Chester County prison complex, and for all men to stay in God’s Word after they leave here.

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

• John– my Mom, my Son, and my son’s Mom.
• Dave– strength to get through each day, stay positive, and stay away from negative people.
• Daniel– my wife Grace, for safety and warmth, and to be reunited on Thursday morning.
• Justin– for health, my parent’s health, court date on Friday, taking it day by day, wishing for the best.
• Silas– keep my Mom in prayer, my family, and something resolved in my case.
• Jason– spiritual healing, bring down everyone’s anxiety and fears, prayers for my wife and wisdom for her.
• Ryan– for Matt, his son had 10 teeth pulled.
• Dustin– God guide me to understand the Word, keep me safe, keep all of us safe, and cast out evil.
• Matt– for my in-laws Gerald and Cheryl health, my friend Jackie and her Dad (Sarge) in bad health, and prayers for patience.
• Andy– improvements in the system so guys can talk with whom they need to speak.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

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

In my travels, I’ve heard plenty of people question if God really answers prayers. I assure you, He does.

The real question is, are we earnestly listening for His answer? Or are we waiting for the answer we want? God will respond one of three ways- yes, no, or wait. We don’t like to hear no, and we certainly don’t like waiting – We want what we want, and we want it now!  I’ve heard people claim many times that God didn’t answer their prayer, when He actually did and the answer was no.

How often have we been reminded God is not a genie, or God is not a vending machine, where we pray and expect our desires to happen?  We hear those comparisons, and agree with them, but maybe need an honest double-check of our heart and our attitude when we pray. Are we asking for our will to be done? Or His will be done?

Our 10-month old pup Barley got sick and ended up in ICU with double pneumonia and sepsis. We still can’t figure out how he got so sick so fast. He wasn’t doing well, and bills were racking up fast (thousands per day). We earnestly prayed for God’s intervention – Of course we wanted our sweet boy to get better, but we simply prayed for God to make it clear which way to go. And He did. Within hours of that prayer, we got a call saying things were going downhill fast, and if we want to say goodbye, come to the hospital now (it was 11:39pm).

Definitely not the outcome we wanted, but we asked for a clear sign and He gave it. With a sad heart, I had new understand of Job’s prayer – the Lord gives, and the Lord takes away, blessed be the name of the Lord (Job 1:21).  I think prayer is one of the ways we draw closer to our heavenly Father. He desires us to have a heart like His, that ultimately our will becomes aligned with His will. Then our prayers will look much different. And we’ll see for ourselves that He always answers.

I want to thank each of you for answering the call to pray for this ministry – chaplains, volunteers, inmates, staff – all in need of prayer every day. And I pray that God continues to draw each of you closer day by day, week by week, and together we may all someday align with His perfect will.

Grace and Peace,

Rick

PS. – Please join us at the Onesimus Benefit Breakfast coming up on Saturday, Feb 28, 9:00am 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):

• Rick– for Roland’s upcoming biopsy to show no cancer, yet ultimately God’s will to be done. Please prepare him and wife Deb for what comes next.
• Shaun– my brother, who’s done many rotten things to me. And for forgiveness.
• Munuz– my daughter, family, safety and health.
• Kelly– understanding and grace.
• Jerron– my fianc? Paige, understanding and patience for my case, speediness for my lawyer and getting information, and to get out soon.
• Manuel– my family, and to find out what is going on with my case.  My daughter Sofia and my wife Adriana.
• Frank– my two daughters, Tabitha and Victoria.
• Carlos– family, get out soon.
• Terrence– for my ex-girlfriend (Rosanna), that we could restore communication and get through the fight together, may her faith be restored and give her a clear mind to not give up on relationship or her life goals, and to have faith in God.
• Andy– physical healing and salvation for my brother Jeff (clots) and sister Donna (cancer).
• Roland– for all inmates to walk with the Lord in how they live and what they say.
• Eugene– the homeless.

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

• Ron– my brother, my stepson, and for everyone in here.
• Julius– I go to court on 24th, hope to get  good deal and go home soon. Also thanking God for His goodness as my middle brother was incarcerated in mid-January and is already out. Also pray for my sister-in-law to have a healthy delivery- she’s 8 months pregnant.
• Jermain– my court date didn’t go well, moved to Wednesday, hoping to have charges dismissed.  Also for my fianc? and my kids, that they would not be anxious or worried.
• Jonathan– my kids, my grandmom had eye surgery, and I thank God for being here.
• Jim M– my son Jacob.
• Vince– for my unborn baby to come healthy – due Feb 28. Also for the situation where my baby mom uses kids as pawns – not good.
• Troy– for my whole family that is praying for me, and for my daughter Lexis caught up in worldliness.  For my wife who’s sick with a bad cold. Also for my brother Timothy, and a guy whose last name is Lock.
• Mike– my wife Robin, daughter Hannah, sons Michael and Gavin, and for forgiveness.
• Chuck– for my ex-wife to keep her sister away from my kids- she’s in a bad place and needs to wake up and see the light. And for my girlfriend who is on an emotional roller coaster because of my situation.
• Brandon– my Dad Earl and my little brother living in hotels, and my brother Clarence on F-block who is getting out next month.
• Jose G– my friend Matthew had 7 bypasses with open heart surgery- pray for his healing and recovery.  Also pray for salvation of all in CCP.
• Phil T– for Joy and her husband, overwhelmed with the twins, and big praise that the second twin Josie is coming home tomorrow – Pray for everyone’s strength and endurance.  Also pray good results at my wife’s follow up after breaking collar bone.  And for my grandson Cubby who has sleep apnea and undergoing surgery Wed for tonsillectomy and adenoid removal – Mom very concerned.
• Erwin– for my sister with cancer.
• Ben– for anyone without faith to at least believe God exists.
• Woody– for the homeless out in this frigid cold, and for my uncle Glenn’s wife Jean with Alzheimer’s.
• Cory– for good temperament of my sister’s family – much anger there.  My sister is taking care of everything with my situation plus an upcoming family vacation – no one else lifting a finger.
• Dan– for volunteer Andy out with a bad cold.  And praise for my newly saved brother-in-law who didn’t hesitate to pray with my wife and I before dinner at a restaurant.

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

• Dustin– for God to touch her mind and heart to get sober.
• John– for friends and family. Hope to enter rehab soon and keep in touch with us.
• Dustin L– stay focused on the right path. Court date 2/23
• Nathan– family, girlfriend and son.
• Cephas– mom Deborah has stage four cancer. Also for wife and kids during this trying time.
• Cam– relief for wife’s depression
• John– son, mom, and baby’s mom.
• David– Get out and be free. To get his license back.
• Daniel– wife Grace court date coming up. Pray for his release 2/19 and be reunited with Grace soon.
• Tyrek– girlfriend for strength post-partum. Favorable outcome for court case Wednesday.
• Silas– keep mom safe. Help with case, it keeps dragging on.
• Johnny– mom stay healthy and son does good. Keep healing while in here.
• Jason– open his eyes and be humble. Spiritual guidance.
• Cooper– family and loved ones.
• Aaron– to find peace.
• All the men also expressed thankfulness for your prayers. They were also praying for each other as well. I ask that you pray that they continue to build each other up.

Prayer Requests from Onesimus Ministries

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

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