My previous thoughts about prison and people who are in prison was very negative. I imagined prisons being like animal cages for humans, guards being ruthless, and the prisoners being like animals who were behind bars most of the time. I have previously seen documentaries on prisons and was able to modify my impression, but I still felt that they were very dangerous places where people go in and never emerge.

When I first thought about prison marriage ministry, I was afraid. I thought scenerios where the prisoners would riot and I would be taken hostage, etc. My thoughts about prisoners was that they were barbaric and dangerous. I thought, "this is why they were behind bars".

I prayed to the Lord about this and he not only softened my heart towards people who are incarcerated, he also helped me understand that I may be able to help more people develop a relationship with the Lord. I became more enthusiastic about volunteering and I took the "next step" and reached out to Johnny and Betty Moffitt of WVIW Ministries.

My experience was wonderful! The men were cordial and well mannered. Most had many tatoos, but I have one so I cannot "judge a book by its cover." The wives had so much love for their husbands and it seemed like nothing would prevent them from spending time with their significant other. even if that means they only get to see each other once a week, can't even show affection, and are watched by a prison guard during their entire visit.

I believe I had a positive impact on the 2 couples that I met with. I have been in contact with them since the seminar and I'm connected to the wives via Facebook and I send emails to their husbands.

This has been a "life changing" experience for me and I'm looking forward to the next Marriage Seminar! 

Glenn