tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42889879539837025812024-02-20T00:40:56.653-06:00Prison & Jail Ministry IllinoisPrison & Jail Ministry Illinoishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06603660040541801151noreply@blogger.comBlogger58125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-40975218184724324882011-02-22T08:23:00.001-06:002011-02-22T08:25:28.604-06:00OUR NEW BLOG<span style="font-size:180%;color:#cc0000;"><strong><em>Stop in and see our new blog, PRISON AND JAIL MINISTRY CONNECTION. </em></strong></span><br /><a href="http://prisonandjailministryconnection.blogspot.com/">http://prisonandjailministryconnection.blogspot.com/</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-69679770670139635892011-01-20T07:36:00.001-06:002011-01-20T07:40:26.058-06:00JAIL-MAIL from Chaplain Tom, NEW LIFE CORRECTIONS MINISTRY at WAYSIDE CROSS MINISTRIES, AURORA IL January 20, 2011<span style="color:#3333ff;">JAIL-MAIL from Chaplain Tom, NEW LIFE CORRECTIONS MINISTRY at WAYSIDE CROSS MINISTRIES, AURORA IL January 20, 2011<br /><br /></span><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Upcoming One-Day Training Seminar<br /></span>April 2nd, 9 AM - 3:30 PM<br />215 E. New York St., Aurora IL<br />Speaker: Rich Hines<br />Cost: FREE!<br />Email Chaplain Tom to reserve a place!<br />tbeatty@waysidecross.org<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">The Dads' Classes</span><br /><br />DEFINING THE PROBLEM<br /><br />GETTING STARTED<br />Memorize Psalm 1:1<br /><br />RELIGION, SPIRITUALITY,<br />& CHRISTIANITY<br /><br />HANDLING ANGER, DRUGS, ALCOHOL, STRESS<br />Memorize Psalm 1:1-2<br /><br />“DISTANT DAD"<br />Write letter(s) to kid(s).<br />Memorize Psalm 1:1-3<br /><br />RELATIONSHIPS<br />Write letter(s) to kid(s).<br />Memorize Psalm 1:1-4<br /><br />FATHERING<br />Write letter(s) to kid(s).<br />Memorize Psalm 1:1-5<br /><br />LEADERSHIP & DISCIPLINE<br />Write letter(s) to kid(s).<br />Memorize Psalm 1:1-6<br /><br />Aunt Mary’s Storybook<br />Write letter(s) to kid(s).<br /><br />“Fireproof” - the movie & COMMENCEMENT!<br /><br /><br />Homework assignments with each class and Scripture memory are required.<br /><br />You can view these classes on our Downloadable Files -<br />http://www.waysidecross.org/newlife/files.php<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc0000;">Also needed in the Kane Co. Jail - volunteers for CELEBRATE RECOVERY.<br /></span>For information, application:<br />mailto:lvinvest@comcast.net<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#993399;">Progress in Kendall County!<br /></span>Yes, after years of praying, we're seeing God open the doors to the Kendall County Jail in Yorkville! They've been "almost closed" to volunteers for some years after some negative experiences with volunteers & contraband.<br /><br /><br />Chaplain Tom had a good meeting with Jail Commander Sabrina Jennings (she requested the meeting!), to begin plans to bring in the Dads' Classes - to start in late February? The Commander said they will also welcome Bibles, Bible Lessons, and Christian books, and make make arrangements for us to show DVDs. Now, we're not "in" yet, so please continue praying! Please pray God will raise up 4 volunteers to go with Chaplain Tom, PROBABLY on Wednesday afternoons. Interested? Contact <a href="mailto:tbeatty@waysidecross.org">mailto:tbeatty@waysidecross.org</a><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;">Kane Co. Jail "Dads" Volunteers Needed!<br /></span>The Kane County Jail is accepting volunteer applications NOW. This will be the only time this year that applications will be accepted. The Dads' Classes are held on Fridays, from 7 - 9:15 PM. You'll join existing volunteer teams, co-leading the classes. For an application: <a href="mailto:tbeatty@waysidecross.org">mailto:tbeatty@waysidecross.org</a><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#993300;">Illinois Youth Center in Saint Charles<br /></span>For about three years now, we've conducted a weekly Bible Study for all the "newbies" at the Center.. The "Leisure Time Activities" Department at the center has requested we have a monthly, Friday evening "Video Time" for the residents (teen-aged boys). Of course, we'd like to present Bible-centered videos. Do you know of a source of videos, preferably donated? They'd need to be 30 - 60 minutes in length, DVD preferred. We also need volunteers for this. Can you please help? Please contact mailto:tbeatty@waysidecross.org. (Warning: The application process for this is tedious!) Please pray we can meet this need, and take advantage of this opportunity!<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">If you would please consider donating to NEW LIFE CORRECTIONS, here's a link to our website - http://www.waysidecross.org then click on the Red Heart. Thank you!<br /><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-68926317129290716842011-01-16T16:17:00.001-06:002011-01-16T16:21:55.049-06:00Sheridan Correctional Malachi Dads Prayer Request - Friday Janauray 14, 2011Greeting prayer warriors;<br /><br />A couple of prayer request from me for a couple of men who I had in class last year.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Sean</span> – I heard from another former student that Sean who was paroled last fall supposedly relapsed with his drug addiction. He is also supposedly back in treatment and thus far has not violated parole. Please pray that he will seek God fully and sincerely in his trials.<br /><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;">Quincy</span> – I periodically check the IDOC web site to follow-up on the status of various inmates that are not on parole. This evening I did a follow-up on Quincy and he has been classified as an absconder aka fugitive. This of course was very disappointing. I had high hopes for Quincy especially in being a solid dad towards his son. I do not know details of his current situation but please pray that he will yield to God’s will by repenting and contact his parole officer.<br /><br />There will be a Malachi Dad’s class next week but Brian will be going solo. I’m attending a class sponsored by the Navigator’s that I pray will benefit SOCPM for God’s glory, thus no prayer request<br /><br />As for the Malachi Dad prayer request they follow<br /><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;">Devery</span> – Would you continue to pray that Father God in Jesus name continue to use me as an instrument of inspiration to other men that are in my path as long I’m here at Sheridan and I would like you to pray for my daughter Darcee who’s 11-years old and her mother Dancas – Thank You<br /><br /><span style="color:#993399;">Adam</span> – Grace, peace and mercy ne on to you all in the name of Jesus. Could I request a prayer for my walk in Christ and the hunger I once had seems to be fading. Please keep the martyr’s suffering and persecuted for Christ name and others in the world that are sick and suffering to give them the strength to get through and come to know Christ. God bless, peace and love in Christ<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Anson</span> – For my walk with Christ Jesus to grow in a might way. To be more focused in God and His word. I’m struggling in my walk with Him. I’m weak in certain areas of my life letting people stop me from speaking God’s Good News to the world. I need to be in tune with the Holy Spirit and allow Him to control me. Thanks God Bless<br /><br /><span style="color:#996633;">Antoine</span> – I pray that I can become more frugal with my time, to be able to read the Bible more and manage my time more usefully, to pray that I stay in an attitude of gratitude and keep a positive of mind and for my family to stay strong and healthy and to be closer to God.<br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;">Charles</span> – My name is Charles I would like prayer for me to have a closer relationship with God. Also pray for me to do His will and for Him to watch over me and walk with me as I go on from Sheridan.<br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Miguel</span> – I just ask you pray for every individual that is going through situations in their lives that they believe that there’s nothing that can get them out of the problem. The truth is if they turn it over to God things will start getting a whole lot better and it might just get resolved completely if they put their faith in Christ Jesus and God our heavenly Father. Thank you for your prayers and God Bless.<br /><br /><span style="color:#663366;">Rafael</span> – Thank you Father God for all you have done in my life and for all of which you are going to do. Mainly Father hear me your servant clothe the poor feed the hungry. Help those who are in need, the young and the old. Comfort the broken hearted, heal the sick in Jesus most precious name I pray Amen<br /><br /><span style="color:#660000;">Randy</span> – Please pray for my family, please pray for my ability to follow directions in detail. Please pray for all the sick and suffering. Please pray that my faith strengthens Amen<br />Jon – Pray for favor and God’s grace<br /><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;">Rodney</span> – Please pray that God will continue to this facility, Scott and Brian Thank you and God bless<br />Levi – I would like you to pray that Scott, Brian and all the participants in this study group. Pray for our continuous growth in seeking to live a righteous life through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and for the safety our families, loved ones and our communities.<br /><br /><span style="color:#3366ff;">Robert M</span> – Please pray for my mother who is taking care of my son while I am in here at Sheridan. She is often sick and had her hip replaced. Robert Oliver M III, is my son who is 4-years old Also my soul mate is struggling with her relationship with God, as she also is in IDOC Decatur, IL. Pray for my sister Mary and her two boys, brother Naura and his family, and my friends here in IDOC; York Craig, Stephen and John<br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Robert F</span> – I’m asking for prayer in my obedience in the Lord and for my family, my parents dealing with sickness and my Aunt Geraldine and her recovery from heart surgery and for the Holy Spirit’s presence over Sheridan – Thank you and God bless<br /><br /><span style="color:#993300;">John P</span> – Please pray that the Lord continues to share His love and grace on me. Please my two little girls especially Alysha because she turned 5-years old the twelfth of January. Also bless the Governor as he makes the tough decisions when it comes to releasing inmates into the public. Also continue to bless Scott and Brian as they come to share the Word with us every Friday. Also watch over Scott’s son and lead him into God’s path. Prayfully yours<br /><br /><span style="color:#33ff33;">?</span> – Please pray for peace on earth and all families to be safe for a life time and find God to be their Savior<br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">Clarence</span> – My prayer request is that the wisdom of God will rest upon me and I will experience God by obeying Him. Also that I will hear from my loved ones<br /><br /><span style="color:#000099;">Lidell</span> – Just pray for the people of the world that they may find Jesus, that they may find love and happiness<br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">DeAngelo</span> – I would like for you to pray for me in my spiritual walk. For my reuniting with my ex-spouse Iesha. Special prayer for Derrick, my mother Michelle and Aunty Yolanda<br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries™<br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br />SOCPM's mission is to bring the gospel to the prisons, disciple Christian prisoners and connect them with resources that will provide them with holistic discipleship during and after incarceration.<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-8573146354416707692011-01-11T09:22:00.004-06:002011-01-23T16:07:06.978-06:00THANKSGIVING AT COOK COUNTY JAIL<a href="http://wccc.blogs.com/.a/6a00d8341c1eb053ef0148c6c607a6970c-320wi"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://wccc.blogs.com/.a/6a00d8341c1eb053ef0148c6c607a6970c-320wi" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;">12/16/2010<br />A Day of Thanksgiving<br /></span><br />While most people started Thanksgiving Day in anticipation of a family gathering, Mike Calia was on his way to the Cook County Jail. Although he isn’t new to serving at Willow Creek, this was his first opportunity to serve with the prison/jail ministry. As he worked alongside 31 other volunteers, his perspective changed in a way that he didn’t see coming.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;color:#ff0000;">Hearts of Compassion<br /><br /></span>On Thanksgiving morning, the inmates of Cook County Jail walked single file in groups of 50-75 into the multipurpose room. Mike’s job was to serve the food and give a smile to each of the inmates as they passed through the line.<br /><br />Before Jim, a co-leader in the Monday night Bible study at the jail, gave a short greeting, he asked how many of the men attended the weekly Bible study. Mike was surprised at the number of hands that went up. God is truly doing life-transformational work within the walls of the jail.<br /><br />A particularly moving moment occurred after one of the inmates led the group in a very passionate prayer. "An inmate started singing 'Amazing Grace' and of course, we all joined in," says Mike. "I cannot even describe the feelings I had while singing that song 'a cappella' along with 80 or so other people, most of them male and almost three-quarters of them inmates."<br /><br />"In my opinion, the most amazing thing happened when Jim mentioned that this was the third year that Willow’s prison ministry was serving a Thanksgiving meal at this prison and this would not be possible without the prison guards’ cooperation," mentioned Mike. Without a suggestion of any kind from any of the volunteers, the inmates actually started applauding. Mike left Cook County Jail that day feeling God’s grace in a new way.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Volunteer Opportunity<br /><br /></span>2010 was the third year Willow Creek has harnessed volunteer power to serve Thanksgiving dinner at the Cook County Jail. There is a tremendous need for volunteers (especially men) to serve on an ongoing basis with this vibrant, life—changing ministry. If you feel God nudging you to be a part of the prison/jail ministry, contact Gaius at gcosman@foxvalley.net.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#3366ff;">For more blog articles regarding the Prison and Jail Ministry,</span> <a href="http://wccc.blogs.com/compassion_and_justice/">http://wccc.blogs.com/compassion_and_justice/</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-26201773444533532872011-01-11T08:25:00.003-06:002011-01-11T08:31:27.158-06:00NEW LIFE CORRECTIONS MINISTRY at WAYSIDE CROSS MINISTRIES, AURORA IL ,JANUARY 10, 2011JAIL-MAIL from Chaplain Tom, NEW LIFE CORRECTIONS MINISTRY at WAYSIDE CROSS MINISTRIES, AURORA IL <br /><br />January 10, 2011 Upcoming One-Day Training Seminar<br />April 2nd, 9 AM - 3:30 PM<br />215 E. New York St., Aurora IL<br />Speaker: Rich Hines<br />Cost: FREE!<br />Email Chaplain Tom to reserve a place!<br />tbeatty@waysidecross.org<br /><br />"Malachi Dads" volunteers needed!<br />In the Kane County Jail, the Dads' Classes meet every Friday, 7:15 - 9:15 PM. Volunteer applications are being accepted in January only!<br />Email Chaplain Tom for<br />an application!<br />tbeatty@waysidecross.org<br /><br />Prayer Requests<br />Spanish Bibles and books - We prefer Christian books, but morally-clean novels, mysteries, biographies, etc. are welcomed.<br />Malachi Dads co-leaders at the Kane County Jail.<br />Acceptance of our Dads' Classes into the Kendall County Jail.<br />The Gospel to be clearly presented & clearly-heard.<br /> <br />If you would please consider donating to NEW LIFE CORRECTIONS, here's a link to our website - http://www.waysidecross.org<br /><br />BOOK NEED:<br /><br />"Book Cart Ministry" at Kane Co. Jail<br />The Kane County Adult Justice Center in St. Charles does not have a staff Chaplain, so 10 volunteers have teamed up to provide one-on-one Pastoral Counseling, and Christian literature to the general population. On the Book Cart are Bibles, tracts, Christian Books, Bible Study materials, and devotionals.<br /> <br />All the Book Cart materials are donated. Currently, we have a good number of English Bibles & books, but a GREAT NEED in this vital ministry is for Spanish Bibles and books. We have many inmates who's only language is Spanish, and many more who may have some English skills, but their "heart language" is Spanish. <br />5th Dads' Class at Stateville Prison<br /> <br />We began Dads' Classes with a new group of men on Jan. 5th. Some prayer requests after their 1st class are:<br /><br />Albert - for my 4 kids following my criminal footsteps (3 are incarcerated) to change!<br /><br />Marcus - for grace & humility to grow spiritually; for Mom’s upcoming surgery.<br /><br />Timothy - for friends, family & foes to obey God’s Word & teach their kids a better way.<br /><br />Manuel - for guidance, strength & understanding that God will change me.<br />Anonymous - for strengthened fellowship w/ God, better relationships w/ children & loved ones.<br /><br />Ray - to return to the free world as a better Dad.<br /><br />Tony - to have one of my children back into my life, and not be manipulated against me.<br /><br />Antoine - for Mom on her deathbed; for my “low” hope & faith to be strengthened.<br /><br />Anonymous - for the health of my son, Mother, and family members.<br /><br />John - for favor in Court; for better relationships with my sons & their Mothers.<br /><br />Larry - to see my grandkids in person; to be a better Dad to help my kids be better parents.<br /><br />Anthony - for my family, especially daughter Destiny to know Jesus as Lord & Savior.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-444572700027946442011-01-11T08:23:00.001-06:002011-01-11T08:25:19.071-06:00Sheridan Correctional Malachi Dads Prayer Request - Friday Janauray 7, 2011Greeting Prayer Warriors<br /><br />We are about ¾ the way through our Experiencing God study. We did not meet for a couple of weeks, a planned night off December 24th for Christmas but an unplanned night off December 31st as the administration put Sheridan on lockdown, a common practice in prison facilities on New Years Eve.<br /><br />Here are this week’s prayer request. I was moved by how many are missing loved ones for various reasons. Thanks for your prayers.<br /><br />Eli – Please pray for a good outcome of my January 24th court date of a order of protection that my children’s mother Bobbi placed on me today against my three children Kourtney, Kaitlin & Eli to be removed in the name of Jesus <br /><br />Rafael – I pray that the almighty One, the true living God will grant me peace, a mouthful of praise and a heart of Thanksgiving. I thank Him for 2011. Amen<br /><br />Kevin – I would really like for you to pray that my wife write to me or come see me or one day that I could call and talk to my kids. Thank you for your prayers.<br /><br />James – I’m trying to get back in touch with my child, his mom has written to me but when I write back my mail is returned. I pray that she figure something is wrong with the mail and not me. Please Lord help me see my child. God bless<br /><br />Rodney – I ask you to pray that God will give me sustaining grace throughout this New Year. Love you and God bless.<br /><br />Jacob – I want you to pray for my family, my grandma, my church family and my little brother who is in foster care. Pray that I meet my earthly father and be able to join my family on his side. Pray that I become a better musician, to my music and my ministry. Pray that I can help young brothers and sisters who are lost and don’t know which way to go. Pray that I find peace within myself, Pray that I can bless people.<br /><br />? – Prayer for knowledge to pass the language and arts writing part of the GED test that I have to take over, also for me to keep God the center of my life. To walk according to His command and for my family to turn it over to Christ Jesus<br /><br />Lidell – Could you please pray for my mom, my children, Gene and Carloyne. Pray for Gene’s health that God may bless him and his wife<br /><br />Jesse –I been so down in my spirit I have laid my Bible. I don’t read it like I should. I’ve been so negative I need you to keep me in prayer because I am falling by the side letting the devil steal my joy.<br /><br />Charles – I would like for prayer for me to have a good year. Prayer for me to choose the right recovery home to move to. Pray for me to stay sober and keep growing in the 12 step program. Pray for my relationship to keep growing closer to God. Prayer for my relationship with my mother and daughter to become closer. Prayer for a good job. Thank you<br /><br />John P – I am praying that the Lord bless me with the 6 months mentorious/supplemental good time and if possible work release. I’m also asking that the Lord please help my daughter’s mom. Please help my daughter to write me because I write letters and sends cards as instructed to and I’m relying on God & faith to allow the response letters. I also would like to have my faith, peace of mind increase. Prayfully yours.<br /><br />Randy – Please pray for my brother Oliver he lost his mother. Please pray that my obedience strengthen, please pray for all my family, friends and loved ones.<br /><br />Adam – Grace, mercy and peace be unto you and your ministry. I pray the absolute best all & I pray for the strength and wisdom to get through and stay focused on the Lord. I’m asking for prayer on the countries of the world & the leaders. “The harvest is big but few are the workers.” Pray also for the persecutors that are persecuting the body of Christ. “He’s not willing that any should perish.” Pray for the POW & MIA’s along with their families. Praise, honor and glory be unto Christ Jesus. AMEN<br /><br />Antoine – Pray for my family and myself that I can find the necessary adjustments for God in my life. That my patience level gets better. To be able not to judge my peers none of us are perfect but by us being Christians and followers of God we need to do as Christians do. To stay firm in my belief in Christ and to become more obedient.<br /><br />? – I ask that you pray for the growth of us all who are attending this study course our families and communities.<br /><br />Devery – I must keep it real with you all, I haven’t heard from my mother Mary since 10-7-09 and this has become very frustrating to me and for me. I have asked a lot of people to pray for me in dealing with this and I know I need to have more faith and cast all my cares on the most High. I just wish this last time that you would pray that I would hear from her this New Year. Thank you for interceding for me and with me pertaining to this matter, that’s been heavy on my mind and my heart. I’m an inmate as Sheridan and I’m grateful that you are praying for my mother and me : - )<br /><br />Clarence – Lord God I would love to hear from my two sons (Justin and Brendon) and their mother. God you know where they are in Texas Pray that God would touch Finesha’s heart to communicate with me. Pray for their safety I have not heard from them in about 17 months. Lord God I ask for favor from you in Jesus name. <br /><br />Miguel – Keep my wife Lizette in prayer that her work comes around so that she doesn’t go through so many difficulties at home. Also I ask that you pray for my daughter Deliah, that her faith in God continues to grow and that she stays in church and Bible study. Thank you and God bless<br /><br />Robert – Pray for my friends; John P, Stephen, Vinah, Nelton, Erin, and my mother who is sick and taking care of my son. They needs God’s grace now more than ever. I have complete faith and prayer and belief that they will be taken care of. Also my sister and her two boys need blessings. Please also pray for me to maintain growth in my relationship with God and help guide others to Christ and glorify God.<br /><br /><br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br />scott@socpm.org<br /><br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries™ <br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br />SOCPM's mission is to bring the gospel to the prisons, disciple Christian prisoners and connect them with resources that will provide them with holistic discipleship during and after incarceration.<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-9005336187622207682010-12-12T14:14:00.000-06:002010-12-12T14:15:58.180-06:00Sheridan Correctional Malachi Dads Prayer Request - Friday December 10, 2010Greeting Prayer Warriors<br /><br />We reached the halfway mark of our study “Experiencing God” with the completion of Unit 6 our 11th session over all in the Malachi Dads program at Sheridan Correctional Center and each week god draws me closer to the men and shows me their desire to be drawn closer to God.<br /><br />Jessie – Please pray for me and my family during this holiday season that the may have a blessed Christmas, that God keep them safe<br /><br />Lidell – Please pray for my children during this holiday season, that they may have a blessed Christmas; Cordell 11, Tanya, Ammera 18, Jahmeela 16, Jasmine 15, Jeanett 14, Lidell, 13<br /><br />Clarence – Pray for wisdom godly wisdom<br /><br />Robert – I would like you to pray for my Uncle Mike, Aunt Tina, son Robert and mother who is taking care of him, my sister Misty who is struggling with her faith and family, Mike C, Vince Y , Edgar N, Cameron and their respective families, my daughters and their mothers, my wife she is also incarcerated and me Robert.<br /><br />Devery – Would you please pray for my two elder friends that have truly been a big part of my spiritual walk, Coral and John. They need healing cause they are both in their 70s. Pray that I hear some news about my Mother, Mary. I have not heard from her in over a year. I have asked someone that stays close to her to check on her but I have not even heard from them, yet. I would like for you to also pray that my walk with Father God will be deeply strengthened. Thank you so much for your prayers.<br /><br />?? - I ask that you pray for my Mom, Lovette, and my children and their Mom and family, that God would be with them during this holiday season and bless their hearts to be cheerful givers to others, if they can.<br /><br />?? – For strength in the time of trouble. Sometimes I fall into temptation. I get weary also in situations. I know that I am blessed with the Holy Spirit but I just need to rely on the spirit and most of all list to Him. Thanks, God bless you.<br /><br />John – Please pray that our 6 month good time comes back and if possible I be released early to do the will of God by sharing my story and testimony with them so that if they are experiencing the struggles I went through then I can be a blessing to them. I also would like for my daughter to write me back. I would like prayer for my daughter’s Mom to find it in her heart to forgive me for allowing alcohol to ruin our relationship. Prayerfully yours.<br /><br />Randy – Please pray: <br />1. For all the people going through tragic situations<br />2. For me to conquer all my problems through God<br />3. That I strengthen my faith, patience, and understanding<br />4. For my family, friends, and loved ones<br />Amen, God bless<br /><br />Eli – God I pray for my health, that you will clear up my throat problems, in the name of Jesus. Also that you will clear it up for your glory, Abba.<br /><br />Jon – Requesting pray for an early releases. Thank you.<br /><br />Levi – I would like for you to pray for us all here attending this Malachi Dads Study Course and our continuous growth in Christ. Pray for our families and loved ones and their safety and well being and also for our communities as a whole.<br /><br />Miguel – I ask that you keep my family and myself in prayer through these rough times. For my wife that they continue to find work for her so that she may keep her house. Pray for myself that my walk with God continues to grow and I get back on track cause I stumbled and took my focus off of God and left it on the world for a while. I thank you for all your prayers and support and God bless you all.<br /><br />Jacob – I need for you to pray for me to forgive other people who do wrong to me. Pray for me to forgive myself for hating other people who hate me. Pray that I love myself some day soon.<br /><br />Antoine – Thank you for your prayers and for praying for my son. I would love for you to continue prayer for us. For us to become stronger in His word and also for good health. I would also like you to pray for my nephew, Javonta, that whatever he is doing God may be able to stop him and that Javonta will hear God’s voice to stop doing wrong. Thank you and God bless you.<br /><br />Kevin – Please pray for me and my family. I am worried about them. Pray that they get in touch with me. I really thank you for your prayers.<br /><br />DeAngelo – I pray that the Lord reunites me and my baby’s mother and continue to bless my mother and family. I pray that His will be done in my life as will every man in the facility. I ask for a special prayer for my friend Derick who has been locked up for something he didn’t do.<br /><br />Raamon – I’m still praying for my family and most of all I am still praying to find my son, Raamon David. God bless and Merry Christmas.<br /><br />Rafael - Please pray for my kids, that they will have a blessed Christmas. Pray that they are safe and have food to eat. I also pray that they will come to visit me. In Jesus name, I pray.<br /><br />Rodney – Please pray that God will redirect the lives of my family, watch over my children and bless this facility. Thank you and God bless you.<br /><br />Robert F. – Asking for prayer for my Aunt Geraldine, my mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. Jones and just for the Lord to look over my family and keep me focused on God and keep a postive mind and let all my words and actions be to serve the Lord and give Him praise. Thank you and God bless you.<br /><br />JJ – Thank you for praying for me. God is good, now my prayers go out to you and I pray that God blesses you. Merry Christmas to all and continue to pray for me. My asthma has gotten better, thanks to you and God all Mighty. There are some things only God can do. Love, your brother in Christ.<br /><br />Adam – Please pray for them that get persecuted for the faith in Christ, the Martyr’s Missionary workers, evangelists and also the sick and suffering in and out of faith. One prayer for me would be a closer more devote walk for Christ. We all fall short but I know I could be much, much closer to the Lord and His will for my life being my number one concern. Not my will but His be done. Amen. God bless!<br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br /><br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries™ <br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br />Connecting prison ministries and institutions to serve the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated for the Glory of Jesus Christ<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-14817827236407398552010-11-08T10:29:00.000-06:002010-11-08T10:34:28.939-06:00Sheridan Correctional Malachi Dads Prayer Request - Friday November 5, 2010Greetings Sheridan’s Malachi Dad prayer warriors<br /><br />Brian and I had a good session this past Friday with the Malachi Dads of Sheridan. We completed Unit 2 of our Experiencing God bible study. Am thankful I am to get these prayer request off within a reasonable time of receiving them. However it is possible there will be a delay in sending next week’s prayer request. I may be out of town and though Brian will be leading the class solo he will have no quick way of sending the prayer requests. My going out of town depend upon my wife Michelle’s health as she is currently under a no fly order from her doctor because of a sinus infection. She currently is scheduled to leave Tuesday but if it is not cleared up it will be a no go. Please pray if you that it will be cleared up Monday morning<br /><br />Here are this week’s prayer request.<br /><br />Devery – I haven’t heard from my mother since October 7th of 2009. I don’t ever know if she is getting my letters. I don’t get them back (returned mail) but I don’t her from her either. I just sent her another letter yesterday with a card her name is Mary. Pray for me that Father God has her to write me and let me know she is alright. Thank you<br /><br />Robert F – Pray for the Lord to look over my Aunt Geraldine as she has heart surgery this week and mother Deborah as she recovers from cancer. God be with me while I push forward in my intimate relationship with Him and my kids to stay focused on the Lord and not they things of this world and to be with every volunteer of the Malachi Dads program and their families. Thank you for your prayers and God bless<br /><br />Raamon – Pray for me trying to find my son. I’m getting closer to him in prayer thank God. Pray for one of my friend’s here DeAngelo and his family. Thank you God bless<br /><br />Lidell – Pray for my family that that I may go home on work release<br /><br />Rafael – Pray that my kids and mom come to visit me. That they are healthy and doing well. I also pray that I receive a letter from my kids and their mom. I mainly pray for God’s will be done on earth as it is in heaven.<br /><br />Rodney – Please pray that God will strengthen my relationship with my daughter’s mother and that He will make away for me to see my kids. Also that He will continue to build me up and use me to further build His kingdom.<br /><br />Reginald D – I have not been able to phone my parents the past three days, tonight I’ll be calling again with whole hearted hope they’ll answer and be in good health, I’m worried<br /><br />Robert – I would like to pray for my children Cody, Rue, Kylie, Rylie and Robert, my mother Carrie as well as the rest of my family. Also my wife who is in Lincoln Correctional Center her name is Julie, also for the rest of the guys here at Sheridan. God’s humble servant thank you and God bless.<br /><br />Steven – Pray for world peace and for my children to be safe.<br /><br />Randy – 1) Please pray for my family. 2) Please pray for my relationship with my daughter. 3) Please pray for my career in the culinary arts and employment. 4) Please pray that I grow stronger in Jesus and my faith. 5) Please pray that I further my education. 6) Please pray for all the sick and suffering in the world. 7) Please pray that God blesses me with a blissful Christian beautiful woman. 8) Please pray for all my enemies. Amen<br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br />scott@socpm.org<br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries™ <br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br />Connecting prison ministries and institutions to serve the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated for the Glory of Jesus Christ<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-10804666477248210002010-11-08T10:16:00.003-06:002010-11-08T10:29:31.836-06:00THE EXONERATED<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51AP5K21JWL._SL500_AA300_.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51AP5K21JWL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" /></a><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong><em><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">A Movie well worth watching. </span></em></strong></span><br /><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#cc0000;"></span></em></strong><br /><strong><em><span style="font-size:180%;color:#cc0000;"></span></em></strong>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-21852166270082868582010-08-23T10:25:00.004-05:002010-08-23T10:29:22.105-05:00BLOG POST ON THE PRISON MINISTRYHere's a great blog post about Prison Ministry on Willow Creek Community Churchs website. <br /><br /><a href="http://wccc.blogs.com/compassion_and_justice/2010/08/crack-at-the-dinner-table.html">http://wccc.blogs.com/compassion_and_justice/2010/08/crack-at-the-dinner-table.html</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-7046277556202510062010-08-18T23:01:00.003-05:002010-08-18T23:50:52.342-05:00A SONG THAT TEARS AT THE HEARTEvery now and then, or maybe more than that, a song will inspire a story within. <br /><br />Eric Church’s LIGHTNING, is one of them. <br /><br />I was actually on the way to my writing mentor’s house when this song came on. And though I’ve heard it many times, its words penetrated deep, and a sudden story idea came rushing over me. I pulled out my spiral notebook and pen and quickly jotted it down before it left me. <br /><br />Prison Ministry is my passion, my calling in life, so this song has intense meaning to me. You see, I visited the very room where they lethally inject inmates. I can’t begin to tell you all the feeling that washed over me as I entered the room, and the whirlwind of thoughts that filled my head. <br /><br />People so often only see the criminal, and the victim and their family…they rarely think of the silent, hidden, unspoken victims. The family member of the criminal. Yes, they too are victims. Victims of embarrassment, hurts, and losses. After all, what had they done wrong? <br /><br />I’m an aspiring writer and thus far have written contemporary romance but I know without a doubt that God will use me to write about my calling in life…the Prison Ministry, whether in fictional or non-fictional form. <br /><br />And I see this song inspiring one of them.<br /><object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/a4WDJHZnLHY&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xd0d0d0&hl=en_US&feature=player_detailpage&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/a4WDJHZnLHY&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xd0d0d0&hl=en_US&feature=player_detailpage&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="385"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-17120077186088427622010-08-13T19:27:00.000-05:002010-08-13T19:34:18.913-05:00ANGOLA<object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/mka7kU1-2uE&rel=0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xd0d0d0&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/mka7kU1-2uE&rel=0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xd0d0d0&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="385"></embed></object>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-87809085375898969122010-06-19T08:55:00.002-05:002010-06-19T08:59:29.749-05:00Prayer Request Men of Sheridan June 18, 2010A news flash if you will Sean who was the only one with perfect attendance for 40 sessions missed the 41st and last teaching session. Apparently not feeling well. It will be a challenge not to razz him next week for our last class of celebration. Another news flash is Robert S joined us this evening. Robert was quit coming so the explanation goes when the previous Assistant Warden Programs removed men from attending to many classroom programs. Not sure what all the facts are but it was good to see him. In fact I told the men that if former students Nathan and Lawrence get permission to join us next week for our celebration they’re welcome.<br /><br /><span style="color:#cc0000;">James</span> – My name is James whoever receives this prayer request can you please pray that I stay away from my old behavior while I’m still young<br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">Quincy</span> – Hey how are you guys doing? Fine I hope and pray. I’d like to thank you guys for praying for me and my children. I am about to get released from here less than two weeks and I’d rally appreciate it if you guys continue to pray for me and that I become a better father to my children. Thanks for praying for me and my children God bless<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">John</span> – Request prayer for understanding to make the right decisions toward my drug and alcohol treatment and where I’ll be paroling to upon release<br /><br /><span style="color:#993399;">Robert S</span> – I would like to thank you Scott for allowing me to come and listen to you share God’s word and give the wisdom you have and taking the time out to come here. You don’t have to but God has given you a heart to disciple us. Thank you I will continue to pray for you and your family. I will ask you to please continue to pray for my family that God will keep me on the right road once I leave here. Thank you once again<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Miguel</span> – Hello and God bless I hope that you are in good health. Once again I ask you keep Rochelle in prayer so that she recovers from her accident that put her in a coma and she pulls through any difficulties that she may have due to this. Also that you keep my wife in prayer that her job gives her more work and in good health when she goes to the doctor that there are no traces of the cancer that she had. Thank you for keeping them in prayer and I pray that God continues to bless all of you who continue to pray us that are incarcerated. God bless you and be safe.<br /><br /><span style="color:#6633ff;">Michael</span> – This will be our last Bible study together so will you please pray for all of us in this class. That we will stay in good grace with God, that is to stay in His good grace. Pray also that we will be able to keep what God has given us through Scott. And ask God to bless Scott as well because we love him with godly love. Pray for all the lost souls in the world<br /><br />I plan to collect prayer request next week but my heart cannot wait until next week to being to give you thanks for praying for these men. Until then though with as much words can sincerely say in an e-mail – Thank you and to Him be the glory.<br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br />scott@socpm.org<br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries<br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br />Connecting prison ministries and institutions to serve the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated for the Glory of Jesus Christ<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-89423409049720663762010-05-30T19:53:00.002-05:002010-05-30T19:56:19.660-05:00Men of Sheridan Prayer Requests Friday May 28, 2010All six men were present tonight for I felt one of the most attentive classes a lesson on "Decisions".<br /><br />Big or small the decisions we make can have consequences we regret, I reminded the men it was a poor decision that resulted in them being incarcerated. A strong emphasis was placed on not just making a good decision but the best decision. The best decisions come from wisdom and wisdom does not come from knowing a lot of stuff it comes from knowing God’s Word<br /><br /><span style="color:#cc0000;">James</span> – My name is James can you please pray for me that I may grow in the Word of God. Also can you pray for the people who are lost in a life of sin and the believers who give into sin.<br /><br /><span style="color:#3366ff;">Quincy</span> – How are you doing? Fine, I hope. I just like you for continually pray for me and my children that when I get release from here that I reunite with all my children Thank you and God bless you and your family.<br /><br /><span style="color:#6600cc;">Jon</span> – Prayer for wisdom to make the right decisions<br /><br />Miguel – My wife is having problems with the social security office and it is beginning to affect her because the are saying she owes more money after she paid them what they said she owes. I have been keeping her in my prayer that they find the mistake that they have made so that it doesn’t stress her out more than it already has. Thank you and God bless<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">Michael</span> – Will you please pray for all the sick suffering people in this world . Again please will you pray for a wonderful, kind, beautiful hearted who has answered my request from last week to pray for another woman who doctors told that she doesn’t have long to live. Pray that God will bless both of the women and all the sick and suffering of this world.<br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;">Sean</span> – I pray that God’s will be my will, I pray that Scott receives traveling mercies and that his family continually to walk and live in God. That my family chose God as their savior and thank you Jesus for the Holy Spirit.<br /><br />A special request of prayer for Jon. Though the other men were quite attentive Jon was very distant tonight. I sensed there was a heavy burden on Jon’s heart. I talked with him for the short walk we have from the classroom to where I have to exit and he said he was OK, but Jon by his own admission finds it a challenge to share his burdens with others. Please pray that through the Holy Spirit Jon will come to know the steps he needs to take to find the peace and joy his heart desires.<br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries<br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br />Connecting prison ministries and institutions to serve the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated for the Glory of Jesus Christ<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-6198580405698878982010-05-17T08:21:00.002-05:002010-05-17T08:25:09.347-05:00Men of Sheridan Prayer Requests May 14, 2010Greeting men of Sheridan prayer warriors;<br /><br />Hard to believe 35 sessions are completed and only 6 more to go.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Sean</span> – That God’s will be my will, that the salvation of my family be in Christ Jesus, that Scott have traveling mercies to and from Sheridan, home and work and that God’s grace and salvation be upon Scott’s life and his family’s life and spirit.<br /><br /><span style="color:#006600;">James</span> - My name is James. Can you please pray that I may pray and come closer to my spiritual side every day. Please pray for me that I can grow in the word of God and be a doer of the word. Also pray for the people who less fortunate.<br /><br /><span style="color:#990000;">Miguel</span> – That I continue to grow with the Lord and stick with my bible study. Also, everything that my wife, Lizette, gets everything that God has in store for her and she recognizes it as a blessing from the Lord and she gives Him the praises that He deserves. Thank you and God bless.<br /><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;">Jon</span> – Seeking prayer to be given an open mind to Sheridan’s alcohol treatment program and to open up fully to others in the group.<br /><br /><span style="color:#663366;">Michael</span> – Please will you just pray for my mother for she is kind of old now and also pray for the rest of my family. I have 9 sisters and I make four brothers. Please will you find it in your God given heart to pray for all of their well being.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">Quincy</span> – Hey how are you? Fine I hope. I would like you to continue to pray for me and my family that we will all remain safe in the Lord’s care. Thank you and God bless you and your family. Amen.<br /><br />Next week we will have a session on ‘Expressing Your Heart’ Please pray that the Holy Spirit speaks through me and the men’s hearts are open to receive<br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br />scott@socpm.org<br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries<br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br />Connecting prison ministries and institutions to serve the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated for the Glory of Jesus Christ<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-4729292817736777272010-05-06T08:25:00.001-05:002010-05-06T08:28:37.539-05:00Men of Sheridan Parayer requests April 30, 2010Greetings;<br /><br />Here are this past Friday’s prayer request<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Michael –</span> In Jesus name, remember the lost, the unsaved, give them the minds to be saved, pray for the city and the streets of Chicago. Pray for Sheridan, Westcare, our families, friends and loved ones. Pray that God blesses the world<br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;">Sean –</span> That God’s will be done in my life continually, that God’s salvation envelope my parents life and spirit and my children’s salvation be in God, thank you God, continued travel mercies for Scott, that this administration here at Sheridan continue to be blessed so that we be blesses by them and through them.<br /><br /><span style="color:#993399;">John –</span> Seeking prayer for Manny Mill and Koinonia House to increase with open more houses<br /><br /><span style="color:#3333ff;">Miguel –</span> My wife Lizette just lost her job and is seeking new employment and I pray she finds a new job that will allow her to survive and live comfortable until my release for me to help support her and our children – Thank you and God bless<br /><br /><span style="color:#ffcc00;">James –</span> My name is James asking that you can pray for non-believers also for the people who struggle and pray but give up once their prayers are not answered right away. Thank God for being a doctor who really cares.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6666;">Quincy</span> was not present, am not certain why please pray he will return.<br /><br />Also pray for a man named Herschel. Herschel is an individual who antagonizes James’ going to Bible studies.<br /><br />As some of you may recall <span style="color:#009900;">James </span>at one time quit coming to the class because of being looked down upon and being called soft by some of his peers. Your prayers brought James back to the class and I affirmed to James that his not giving into Herschel’s antagonizing taunts is an indication of maturity. His maturing is also an answer to prayer. Let us praise God in answering the prayers of Jim’s return to the class and his maturing in His trust in the Lord.<br /><br />Pray that <span style="color:#990000;">Herschel</span> will see that the maturity in James comes from a loving God, who not only loves James but loves Herschel and that the love God has for Herschel will draw Herschel not to antagonize James but to accept God’s love and become one of God’s own children himself.<br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br />scott@socpm.org<br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries<br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br />Connecting prison ministries and institutions to serve the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated for the Glory of Jesus Christ<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-3975840275582346102010-04-26T12:21:00.001-05:002010-04-26T12:24:24.125-05:00Sheridan Prayer Request April 23, 2010<span style="font-size:180%;color:#cc0000;">Greetings of great joy!!</span><br /><br />God’s glory truly shined Friday from Quincy’s glowing smile as he shared his court date on April 16 regarding custody of his son went very well. As I understand it no final ruling from the Judge but per Quincy even the States Attorney was behind Quincy as they talked to the Judge. He has another court date in May when I believe the Judge will give his ruling. Quincy gives thanks for your prayers as you’ll read but I can’t help not stand behind Quincy jumping with joy as I say thanks to you for your prayer and praises to our God for His answers to those prayers.<br /><br /><span style="color:#33cc00;">Quincy</span> – Hey my name is Quincy and I would like to thank you guys for praying for me and my son’s situation with court. Things went so well for us even when I give up on myself you guys in the Lord was with me in prayer. Thank you guys God Bless you Quincy – Amen<br /><br /><span style="color:#993399;">Michael</span> – Please pray that I will get a good job that will pay $30.00, but first pray for yourself and everybody in this world, then pray for me.<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff6600;">James</span> – My names is James, please pray for me that I continue to grow mentally and spiritually. Also pray for the people who are given up during up during hard times.<br /><br /><span style="color:#3366ff;">Sean</span> – That my mom receive spiritual, mental and physical peace given by God my Father and my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. That God’s will be done in my life forever, here in prison and the outside of prison. Thank you Jesus<br /><br /><span style="color:#993300;">John</span> – Requesting prayer to continue with desire to successfully complete this drug and alcohol program. I’m having a very hard time with the first program in all my life and don’t like opening up to others in my group.<br /><br /><span style="color:#6633ff;">Miguel</span> missed but he told the rest of the class he had other mattes to attend to but will be back next Friday.<br /><br />It truly was a fun time last Friday, the guys pulled a little gag on me (I fell for it), we talked about how to celebrate in our last class come June 25, it continues to be a joyful blessing to be used by God in these men’s lives. My prayer is that I have submitted an application to the North American Mission Board of Southern Baptist Convention and will be meeting Monday with some staff members from Navigators. In both matters I and Michelle are seeking God’s will and open doors for my taking prison ministry to be a vocational one. Please pray for us to clearly see God’s will above my heart’s desire.<br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br />scott@socpm.org<br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries<br /><a href="http://www.soldiers-of-christ.org/">http://www.soldiers-of-christ.org/</a><br /><br />Connecting prison ministries and institutions to serve the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated for the Glory of Jesus Christ<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-49988298666660108672010-04-21T22:28:00.002-05:002010-04-21T22:32:06.228-05:00Prayer Request Sheridan April 16, 2010<span style="color:#ff6600;">Greetings All;</span><br /><br />A short list this week as one of the men, Paul, was transferred Stateville Farm and Quincy was absent do his court appearance for custody of his son. Quincy arrived back from court shortly before class started but according to the other men he didn’t say anything and just went to his cell. I do not know if it was because he was tired or his day in court did not go well and wanted to be by himself. Nonetheless remember Quincy in your prayers<br /><br /><span style="color:#3366ff;">Sean</span> – please pray for me to be reunited with my children<br /><br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Michael</span> – I will always be last on my prayer request list, so please pray for yourself and others in the carnal world that we live in. Then pray for me that I remain strong in the faith to keep going.<br /><br /><span style="color:#993399;">John</span> – Requesting that God will reveal His purpose and plans for my life.<br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;">James</span> – My name is James. I need whoever comes in contact with this prayer request to pray that I be more drawn to the Lord Jesus Christ. Also pray that I may continue to let go of my childish behavior.<br /><br />Thanks for your prayers<br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries<br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br />Connecting prison ministries and institutions to serve the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated for the Glory of Jesus Christ<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-73278341064303064792010-04-20T08:41:00.002-05:002010-04-20T08:50:29.700-05:00LETTERS MAKE THERE WAY THROUGH STONE WALLS<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj151u5a6Q2PyZmnGv3urIsoQUMXq29pKrFKHGD7CnDLp6xdACYxnnEWH1ulht82VzdURWx-2Jx7PkYpZYA9OT2JQDSJ70S4GfzCA7qxDj4uR2nao1oQ6skl1EZ5jFGTp_9UtknxJFYOwEl/s1600/IMG_0006.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 310px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5462216275350681250" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj151u5a6Q2PyZmnGv3urIsoQUMXq29pKrFKHGD7CnDLp6xdACYxnnEWH1ulht82VzdURWx-2Jx7PkYpZYA9OT2JQDSJ70S4GfzCA7qxDj4uR2nao1oQ6skl1EZ5jFGTp_9UtknxJFYOwEl/s400/IMG_0006.jpg" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;color:#ff0000;"><em>“Gifts make their way through stone walls.”<br />Proverb<br /></em></span><br /><br />I’ve been involved with the prison ministry since 2004. Since then I’ve written countless letters to inmates, visited jails and prisons for adults and youth, as well as answered many letters that have come into my church, Willow Creek.<br /><br />Every time I’ve stepped through the gates of a prison or jail grounds I feel the presence of God. It’s hard to describe but at that moment I know I’m exactly where I’m suppose to be. When I see the many faces of the men or youth, it only reconfirms my feelings.<br /><br />Those that are behind bars are lost, lonely, depressed, feel hopeless, and unloved. But as I stand in their presence and worship with them, or share in their celebrations and life the hope, and love of Jesus is tangible. I can feel it.<br /><br />I could write a book about all the amazing experiences I’ve had through the prison ministry, there’s that many. That’s not to say there is never any heartache because with everything in life there is bound to be. But the good is always outshining the bad for me. That is what I focus on. I’m not about to let satan win at taking away the gift God has blessed me with, and the calling He has for my life.<br /><br />This picture is one I had the privilege of receiving through Willow Creeks Community Church’s mail from a gentleman that is incarcerated. It nearly brought me to my knees.<br /><br /><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;color:#3366ff;">“You can’t help everybody, but you can help a few. It’s that few that God will hold us accountable for.”<br />Bob Pierce<br /><br /></span></em><br /><em><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Hebrew 13:3 “Don’t forget about those in prison. Suffer with them as though you were there yourself. Share the sorrow of those being mistreated, as though you feel their pain in your own bodies.”<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;">“ Eachof our acts makes a statement as to our purpose.”<br />Leo Buscaglia<br /></span><br /><br /><span style="color:#993399;">“No man is so poor as to have nothing worth giving. Give what you have. To someone it may be better than you dare to think.”<br />Henry Wadsworth Longfellow</span></span></em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-26160320265468577612010-04-17T12:05:00.001-05:002010-04-17T12:07:44.391-05:00Sheridan Prayer Request April 16, 2010Sheridan Prayer Request<br /><br />John – Seeking prayer for strength to humble myself in humility of trials <br /><br />Quincy – How are you doing? My name is Quincy and I like for you pray for me that things go in the Lord’s favor as my rights with my son when I go to court Friday April 16 <br /><br />Miguel – I would like everyone to pray for Robert Culp he is a good person and is on his deathbed do to lack of medical assistance Thank you and God bless<br /><br />Paul – I will be getting work release soon I’m easily influenced. Please pray for me that I may have strength to maintain focus. Also my brother was killed by a gang member and he wasn’t saved. However I need you to pray for me that have enough strength to let God’s will in this prevail and not my own<br /><br />Sean – That God’s will be done in my life, that I continue to live in God’s grace and under His mercy, that my salvation would be in God and my family’s salvation would be in God.<br /><br />James – My name is James. Please pray for me that I may grow up and stop acting childish. I feel like I have wasted my youth by being in jail. I’m also scared to go home after being in jail since age 15 – 21. I don’t want to make those same mistakes.<br /><br />Michael – Please pray for the world’s well being and then pray for me. I have always let both little and big things get to me, really get to me bad. <br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br />scott@socpm.org<br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries <br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br />Connecting prison ministries and institutions to serve the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated for the Glory of Jesus Christ<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-67862733280399476742010-03-30T17:09:00.001-05:002010-03-30T17:11:51.104-05:00Sheridan Prayer Request March 26, 2010Praises to our great God for a great night last Friday;<br /><br />We were joined by two newcomers Paul and John. <br /><br />There was a lot of agreement on how we often fall into a cycle of performance orientation, where are actions can be for the wrong reasons and those wrong reasons cause us to take our focus off Jesus.<br /><br />Here are this week’s prayer request <br /><br />Quincy – Hey, my name is Quincy and I would like for you to pray for me that Lord keep his hands on my life and to continue to watch over my family and children<br /><br />Miguel – I need prayers for patience cause I’m dealing with a couple of people that are stubborn and don’t want to change their negative ways. Also that my daughter Delilah graduates the 8th grade on stage.<br /><br />Michael – I would like you to pray for the two new guys that we have in the Bible study, that God guide them and that He will their hearts and stay with us.<br /><br />John – Requesting prayer for strength to find God’s will in my life and requesting prayer for early release.<br /><br />Paul – I owe my mother $5,000 I gave it to a lawyer and if she know she would likely disown me. She had bonded me out of jail. Soon she will find out and I don’t want to lose our relationship. I haven’t spoken to her in months because I’m scared to face her.<br /><br />James – My name is James, please pray that I may gain some self control and be a doer of the word. Please pray that all believers can stand strong in faith in Jesus.<br /><br />Sean – That God’s will be my will, That God continues to bless and keep and renew my family especially spiritually. That my salvation is secure in God. I love you Jesus.<br /><br />The prayers these men request are about thing that are upmost in their hearts; family, children, patience, caring for others, strength, fear, self-control, knowing God’s word and His will. The circumstances may be different but they are just like the our prayers. We have another commonality, sin, different circumstances but all of us in need of a Savior.<br /><br />Thanks for your prayers and words of encouragement, it truly means a lot to me and knowing the power of prayer I can only imagine how much it means to the Men of Sheridan.<br /><br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br /><br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries <br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br />Connecting prison ministries and institutions to serve the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated for the Glory of Jesus Christ<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-80371601219509676112010-03-21T22:25:00.003-05:002010-03-21T22:32:24.925-05:00Mentor: The Kid and the CEO<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41qRZCFmaiL._SL500_AA300_.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41qRZCFmaiL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />The MENTOR: The Kid & The CEO, is a must read for all. It’s well written, and reads like a great novel. Portative, positive, positive. This is the attitude and way of life everyone one should be striving for. This book will bring hope and encouragement to those down on their luck, thinking life has nothing to offer them. It really cemented the idea that our own thinking and actions can either make or break us. In the end it is up to you. To have mentors throughout your life is vital, and having God as the center of your life is a must. <br /><br />I found myself continually saying, “yes, yes.” I loved how Malcolm made it a point to teach both Tony and Gary what is needed to be a good person, as well as successful in life…in all areas of one’s life. We can all learn something from this book whether that be from Tony’s perspective that with the right attitude, good morals and hard work, you can do anything. Or from Malcolm whom we witness the importance of looking beyond ourselves and doing for others. After all, isn’t that what God has called us to do, and in doing so we end up being a winner as well.<br /><br />You reap what you sow, so sow well.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-51344528023840105052010-03-16T14:55:00.002-05:002010-03-16T14:59:46.286-05:00Prayer Request for Sheridan Facility 3/12/2010Hello prayer warriors it was a great time in Sheridan. We talked on the subject of sex and though the lesson itself was good I felt a evening of good fellowship as we also spent some time on spiritual gifts and there was also the blessing of some good news but I’ll let Quincy share that with you in his prayer request.<br /><br />Quincy – I like to thank Jesus for answering my prayers and for you praying for me. I heard from my family and children – Thank God. I pray that the lord keep watch over my family and children as well as your family and children too. God Bless you<br /><br />Sean – That God will be my will, that Scott continued to be blessed as a servant of God and that he receive traveling mercies as he does God’s work. That God continue to bless Sheridan Correctional Center and its staff so that we as detainees also b blessed. That God’s spirit live in and protect my mother, father, children, and the rest of my family <br /><br />James – My name is James, whoever comes in contact with this prayer request please pray for me that I continue to grow day in and day out. I don’t want to waste my life in jail. I want to grow up as a man of God and not as an enemy of God. God bless you from my heart <br /><br />Michael – please pray for the nation and the country of Chili. That the lord will be with them and bring them out of their problems and trouble and I will and always pray for you with the love and care that the Lord put in my heart.<br /><br />Truly the news that Quincy heard from his children was a great joy. Thank you on behalf of Quincy for your prayers as I am confident that God heard them and blessed Quincy. Your prayers are working in James too. I have seen over the past few weeks more sincerity in his wanting to be in the class. Remember he at one time chose to stop attending but your prayers for God to work in his heart were answered and he is attending again.<br /><br />I’m almost in tears as I write this e-mail as I witness these men growing in the Lord and that is through your prayers so I truly am thankful I do ask for your continued prayers for the class as a whole, that the men keep coming. Also I’m trying to make contact with Julie Beethem to arrange for another session in Sheridan. There is no guarantee that we can come back. I’m open to teaching whatever Sheridan feels needs to be taught to these men. Hopefully they will continue to see it being God’s Word. I’m also have three request two from ministry partners (Paul and John) and Miguel a friend the men in the class to join the class and though it is late in the class and I’ve been told no more vacancies can be filled I’m seeking God’s lead on asking Julie if they can join us.<br /><br />Have a blessed week<br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries <br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br />Connecting prison ministries and institutions to serve the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated for the Glory of Jesus Christ<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 671<br />Cortland, IL 60112-0671Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-41231725005469136772010-03-15T10:34:00.001-05:002010-03-15T10:36:01.785-05:00ONE LIFE MATTERS, A NEW BEGINNING<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51DLgec0u8L._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA240_SH20_OU01_.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 240px;" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51DLgec0u8L._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA240_SH20_OU01_.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />ONCE LIFE MATERS is a quick, easy read. Right from the first page you’re drawn into Marty’s world. The insight to being in the music industry in that era and all it entails is fascinating. Though it’s a biography/non-fiction, ONCE LIFE MATTERS reads like great fiction. <br /><br />As I read about Marty’s journey I couldn’t help but be amazed what he survived. It’s clear that God had a bigger and better plan for Marty then he had for himself. And He wasn’t giving up on him. Marty just needed to walk through that door that was being held open for him time and time, again.<br /><br />ONCE LIFE MATTERS is straightforward in how one repeatedly ignores Gods whispers, and where that road can lead. Without God we are lost souls, constantly searching for purpose and meaning in our lives. <br /><br />I loved the way Marty wove in scripture relevant to what was going on in his life, hindsight that will speak to its readers. <br /><br />It may have taken Marty years, as it often does many of us but he finally found his way. Not only did he find his way but he continues to walk through open doors, following Gods whispers, and sometimes shouts to do amazing work in His name.<br /><br />Marty is a walking testimony that lives can be changed, and not only changed but totally turned around. A great inspirational story for those of us in the Prison Ministry, as well as for those struggling with some of the same issues Marty had. <br /><br />I highly recommend this book for those in the Prison Ministry, as well as for those struggling with addictions, in prison or are far from God and feel their life is meaningless and hopeless. <br /><br />ONCE LIFE MATTERS is encouraging to those struggling in life, as well as inspiring to those with loved ones far from God and caught up in their own nightmares.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4288987953983702581.post-74291063811289210502010-03-09T10:52:00.002-06:002010-03-09T10:55:13.409-06:00Sheridan Prayer Request Friday March 5, 2010Hello Prayer Warriors,<br /><br />I had a busy weekend and apologize for lateness<br /><br />We had a really good discussion this last Friday on anger. The men could and did honestly reflect on how ‘sinful’ anger has caused a lot of negative consequences in their personal lives. We also shared some good light hearted moments it was good to share some laughs with the men.<br /><br />The prayer request for this week are along the same line as previous and I take that as a sign there are now any looming challenges or overwhelming trials, but rather the continuing desires of their hearts<br /><br />James – My name is James and who ever receives this prayer request, please pray for me that I may continue to change from the life of crime. It’s hard but I’m making progress slowly but surely<br /><br />Quincy – My name is Quincy and I would like for you to pray for me and my family that the cycle of coming to jail would end and that the Lord keep watch over me and my family<br /><br />Michael – Just pray for all the people in the world and all the nation that are in deep trouble having really bad problems.<br /><br />Sean – That God’s will be done in my life, that my family stay strong in God, that God continue to bless Scott and his family and that Scott will continue to have traveling mercies bringing God’s word to us here at Sheridan<br /><br />This week we will discuss the ever fun topic of ‘Sex.’ Though it can be mentioned with light heartedness, sadly this gift from God between a husband and wife can be one of the most challenging sins to keep under control. Especailly with the promotion of it so heavily in our culture. Please pray for the Holy Spirit to be present in my presenting of the material and of the men’s heart in receiving it.<br /><br />On a personal note, as you may know, I’ve been unemployed since November and though God has provided it be a joy to employed in some capacity again. I myself would love to pursue a vocation in prison ministry but the pay in this vocation is very low and unless we are able to sell our town home in Carol Stream that is almost out of the question barring God doing a miracle. Please pray if it is God’s will for me to pursue prison ministry as vocation at this time He bring us a buyer of the town home and open doors for emloyment in this vocation. If it is not His will that He bring me employment in the EDI field.<br /><br />One additional note my brother Dwight recently became unemployed as well if you could please lift him in prayer for employment. He is also not saved a prayervrfo his salvation is paramount.<br /><br />Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Chriiprst Jesus our Lord;<br /><br />Scott Kalas<br />scott@socpm.org<br /><br />Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries <br />www.soldiers-of-Christ.org<br /><br /> Connecting prison ministries and institutions to serve the incarcerated and formerly incarcerated for the Glory of Jesus Christ<br /><br />U.S. Mail<br />Soldiers Of Christ Prison Ministries<br />P.O. Box 87663<br />Carol Stream IL, 60188-7663Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0