PRISON MINISTRY

Project Nehemiah
We believe that problems of crime in our communities will only be solved when God's people address these problems using Biblical solutions and standards. Project Nehemiah is a three-phase effort to Reach, Restore, and Reconcile the men at Wake Correctional Center, and to help them turn from crime to lives of accomplishment and contribution.

Yokefellow Ministry
This ministry is at the Polk Youth Center located in Butler and commits  to being a part of lives being changed through listening and caring. In small groups, inmates who are 18 to 25 years old are allowed to share about themselves and their families. There are many groups willing to provide worship services and Bible studies for prisoners, but the Yokefellow Prison Ministry uniquely gives prisoners the opportunity to share their lives within an ongoing redemptive fellowship.

“Second Chance” – A Newsletter sent to inmates who are being ministered to presently at Polk Youth Center and after they have been relocated to other prisons. The Second Chance mission statement is: “To let all men know that we are free in Christ Jesus --- and you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” John 8:32

Particular ways new people can serve in the ministry
1.    Project Nehemiah needs mentors that will work individually with a soon-to-be-released inmate. It is preferred that a team of mentors (from the men’s fellowship, small group, etc.) mentor an individual inmate. 
2.    Yokefellows need additional volunteers that would dedicate Wednesday nights to be the facilitator of a small group of inmates ranging from one to half a dozen guys. One does not have to be a Biblical scholar, but just someone willing to show the love of Jesus to these young inmates.
3.    Pen Pals to correspond with inmates are needed. Many that are ministered to at Polk Youth Institution request a pen pal.
4.    It would be good if “Second Chance” could be published monthly. To do so will require those who are willing to contribute articles and be responsible for a specific month(s) edition.

For more information about the Prison Ministries contact
Don Fulford (Nehemiah/Second Chance) | 919.851.1334 or dfulford@carycog.com
Pat Hoyle (Yokefellows) | 919.851.3409

Pardoned By Christ
To reach out to people directly or indirectly affected by incarceration, that would receive the love and provision that is found only in Jesus Christ.

Vision
The Bible says to visit those in prison and sympathize with them as though you were their fellow prisoners.  There is a dire need for the church of Jesus Christ to provide for the spiritual and practical needs of those affected by incarceration.   Inmates and their familes are usually bankrupt monetarily and spiritually.  Most have no support or resources.  Pardoned by Christ Ministry is dedicated to facilitating these provisions through ministry events, bible studies, mentoring, practical serving and giving financially.  Pardoned by Christ Ministry desires to partner with existing churches and ministries to meet the needs of those involved.  Bottom line is the restoration of lives affected by incarceration.  Lives reconciled to the Kingdom of God and to the community in which we live.

Opportunities for Service

Now is your opportunity to serve! Philemon 1:6.  “I pray you will be active in sharing your faith, so that you will have a full understanding of every good thing we have in Christ.“ It's an awesome thing to experience the Holy Spirit work through you as you serve others.  To see lives changed before your eyes!  Laying up treasure in heaven!  Many opportunities require short volunteer training sessions and background checks as required by correctional institutions. Correctional institutions provide the volunteer training and background checks at no cost.  Pardoned by Christ Ministry does not offer extensive training or educational instruction. We are partnered with larger ministries that are able to accommodate this.  We can help plug you in to a ministry, provide limited education, and answer any questions you might have.  Just contact us and we'll get with you ASAP.

Adult Worship Services

Held monthly at Wake Correctional Center and Orange-Alamance Correctional Center
Adult Bible studies
Participating in weekly bible studies in prison.  This is really cool.  Get to know the inmates and fellowship with them on a weekly basis.  You will be blessed and your faith will increase.
Juvenile Detention and Youth Development Centers
Weekend ministry.  Outreaches of various forms to many different institutions.  Travel involved.  We provide educational and personal materials as we share the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Community passes
 Mentoring inmates as you escort them on community leaves from prison.  There is nothing greater than investing yourself into helping an inmate transition back into the community.  These passes are 6 hours or shorter.  Typical excursions include taking them to church, to your home, and/or out to eat.  A wonderful opportunity for fellowship and mentorship.  This need is huge.
Pen pals
Writing relationships and counseling with those incarcerated.  Great for those that don't feel called to minister inside.  Please contact this ministry or a minister with experience in this area before getting started.  There are a few precautions you will want to be aware of. 
Family support
Ministering to spouses and children of those incarcerated.  You can just imagine the many opportunities there are to bless a family.  Many needs for children, especially.   Monetary, mentorship, service, discipleship, and plain lovin' on.

Volunteering in the prison system can be a rewarding experience, if God has put it in your heart and you wish to learn more please contact us. Mike Shank mbshank@hotmail.com.