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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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