“When I first started at MacLaren, only one of the twelve men in the Haystack Unit was a believer. Shortly after, a young man named Jamal asked for mentorship. Just two sessions in, he gave his life to Jesus—his heart changed almost instantly. The remaining ten men were distant and uninterested. For months, real conversation felt impossible. There were even weeks when no one was available, and I sat alone feeling discouraged and ineffective. Still, I kept showing up, trusting God to work even when I couldn’t see it. One week, an inmate (Austin) angrily confronted and threatened me. On the drive home, I prayed that God would soften his heart, and I continued praying for him daily over the next month. The next time I returned, he immediately apologized and asked for forgiveness. He shared that he had recently given his life to Jesus and was now praying daily and reading Scripture constantly. He told me he hopes to mentor at-risk youth through fishing when he’s released. Another inmate (Cannon) overheard our conversation and asked to talk. He had just received an additional six months on his sentence, yet instead of anger, he described a powerful encounter with God and later gave his life to Christ as well. He now wants to attend Bible college and become a pastor. Austin and Cannon are both respected leaders in the unit. Their lives look radically different, and others have noticed. Because they are looked up to, they carry influence. Now men are asking questions, and Austin and Cannon are openly sharing their faith, encouraging others, and helping lead the group toward Christ. Today, all twelve inmates gather each night to hold hands and pray together. They are going through scripture and encouraging each other. What started as a brotherhood rooted in sin, has become a brotherhood living for the kingdom! God is moving, often in ways we can’t see at first, but the fruit is undeniable.”

-G