We
were so busy when we were in Columbia earlier this fall that there was very little time for
writing or even reflecting about what was happening there. Now it has been awhile since we have been home and time has flown. As I look back, I realize
what an immense privilege it was for us to be a part of those meetings. There
were people from all over the world who are committed to prison ministry in
their own countries. We were a part of the group sharing what the Lord is doing in
each country to further His ministry. We learned a lot. But one of the special
things that happened there was the friends we made in that short time. Naturally, when people of
like faiths and like callings come together there was much that drew us
together. We especially connected with a Pastor from Costa Rica who also does
Kairos! We pray that the Lord allows us to cross paths again some day. Also we
became friends with a lady from Puerto Rico who has a huge heart for prison
ministry. These friendships are very encouraging to us, since many people do
not understand our calling to prison ministry.
Another wonderful aspect of our trip was the visit to Pedregal Prison. It is a maximum security prison in Medellin. We had to go through three different security points and a drug sniffing dog! But once we did, it was an
amazing visit. We learned about a program that the women of this prison are
involved in called APAC. It is a structured program that prepares
them for re-entering society. They are free to move around the area of prison
where there are no guards. They are trained in things like sewing, that
will help them to earn a living upon their release. This area of the prison was
painted white and was very cheery and bright. The girls all wore uniforms that
were also a cheerful yellow and white. They shared a small part of their stories
and we had an interpreter with us so we did not miss a thing! They spoke about
how important their faith is in their lives and their return to their families
and homes. They seemed happy and appreciative of the privilege of being in
this program.
After the meeting they all came over and gave us hugs! That is the part that
surpasses all language barriers! The love of Christ unites us.
As
always, with every trip we are so blessed by what God has called us to do.
We are humbled each and every time too. We are only able to do this in His strength and
power. We thank Him for this calling on our lives.
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