Over the past year, positive changes have taken place in our prison ministry. We now have more English-speaking volunteers. As information about our ministry spreads among inmates, more and more people from other nationalities who speak English are reaching out to us, asking for visits and assistance. The new English-speaking members of our team have greatly alleviated our work. At present, there are 10 of them, and out of our total team of 32 people, about 10 more also speak English well. Our team also includes seven pastors and six deacons. We thank God for all others who are joining us in this ministry.
There have also been changes for the inmates. Through special state programs, they now have the opportunity to receive education at schools and colleges. In addition, their sentences may be reduced for pursuing their studies. This brings them great joy, and many are taking advantage of this privilege.
They have also been given another opportunity: with good behavior, during certain hours they are allowed to make free phone calls to their relatives and acquaintances. Some of them call us almost every day, and it is not always possible to answer. But we understand them. Many of them have long been forgotten by their families.
We also receive calls from two individuals who were deported to Ukraine and Armenia. They remember our fellowship with them while they were serving their sentences here and thank the Lord for us. Unfortunately, there are also those who have forgotten everything, like the lepers whom Christ healed. Not all returned to thank Him for their healing (Luke 17:11–19). Only one came back!
Today, our ministry takes place throughout California almost every Saturday, and sometimes during the weeks as well. These are trips to prisons for visits, participation in court hearings, and correspondence. Sometimes our trips last two or three days, and this is very challenging for everyone involved.
Please pray for us and for our ministry!
Viktor Butaev
Director of the Prison Ministry
A part of our team
