A prison ministry that began 20 years ago in the Chesterfield Association is still changing lives in that area, and empowering Kingdom growth through its ministry.

The ministry started when the local association and its churches were granted permission to build a chapel on prison grounds in the ‘80s.  Since then, there has been a service held in the chapel every Sunday, and other ministry opportunities have also presented themselves. 

The prison ministry has now expanded to include a Bible study on Monday nights, which touches anywhere from seven to 12 men; a Thursday night worship for up to 27 men; an interdenominational service on Sunday afternoons; and a women’s service.  Volunteers will also visit inmates in their cells on many occasions, being able to meet face-to-face with men who need the Lord.

“We’re seeing a lot of spiritual activity,” said Luis Gargiulo, pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church in Jefferson.  “We’ve been seeing men (and women) coming to know Christ each week.”

In fact, one man who was saved through the prison ministry 18 years ago now participates in the ministry to inmates.  And recently, a 33 year-old man cried as he accepted Christ from his cell, where he sat alone in solitary confinement. Alone no more, he is living proof of how local churches working together can change the world for Kingdom Growth.

“It’s been a blessing,” said Buck Gulledge, pastor of Oakland Baptist Church in Ruby. “I’ve been going [to the prison] for over 20 years.  It’s just amazing how God has kept the ministry alive and sent people to help.”