Winter 2008 News from Kairos Prison Ministry International, Inc

God’s Special Time Winter 2008 News from Kairos Prison Ministry International, Inc. Vol. 34, No.2 Christmas 2008 New Year 2009

Something to Contemplate this Holiday Season…………. Matthew 25:37-46 "Then the prison, and did not help you?' time. Right on baby, we don't righteous will answer him, 'Lord, "He will reply, 'I tell you the have time for people who break when did we see you hungry and truth, whatever you did not do God's laws and sin in God's feed you, or thirsty and give you for one of the least face, do we? something to drink? When did of these, you did we see you a stranger and invite not do for me.' God didn't really mean that you in or needing clothes and those who don't see and hear clothe you? When did we see "Then they will go away to eter- and seek would be cast out, you sick or in prison and go to nal punishment, but the righteous does He? I never broke any visit you?' to eternal life." laws or sinned or needed forgiveness so why should I spend "The King will reply, 'I tell you Are you familiar with this? my time and hard earned money the truth, whatever you did for There it is as plain as the nose on on a bunch like those guys and one of the least of these brothers your face. Jesus telling all when gals in prison? of mine, you did for me.' "Then we see the sick, hungry, thirsty, he will say to those on his left, in need of clothing, or in prison, Maybe God isn't asking you to 'Depart from me, you who are we are called to do something go behind the walls, or even cursed, into the eternal fire pre- more than ignore them. It really send money or give up some of pared for the devil and his an- isn't some suggestion from Jesus, your time, but just maybe He is. gels. do you think? He says that if we Think about it and pray. Pray For I was hungry and you gave don't - He doesn't have any part for those who are homeless, me nothing to eat, I was thirsty in us. Pretty strong language and without food or clothing and and you gave me nothing to very intimidating, isn't it? pray hard for those that society drink, I was a stranger and you has placed out of your sight and did not invite me in, I needed I guess we had better put this on need forgiveness and the truth clothes and you did not clothe our top burner and see if there is there is a better way. me, I was sick and in prison and any wiggle room in this for you you did not look after me.' and me. Maybe if we give some In Jesus name and power, money to the church, are we off Jim Denny, Indiana Kairos "They also will an- the hook? Maybe if they are all Volunteer. swer, 'Lord, when disgusting, no-good bums, it's ok did we see you to just walk away and not think hungry or thirsty or a stranger or about them. They did their needing clothes or sick or in crime, now let them do their FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR God’s Special Time Vol. 34. No. 2 Kairos Needs Your Help God’s Special Time is published We are proud and forgiveness with more than four times a year by to announce 200,000 inmates, inmate families Kairos Prison Ministry that Kairos and institutional professionals. International, Inc. Prison Minis- Kairos currently ministers try - South through approximately 25,000 The Mission of Kairos is to bring Christ’s love and forgiveness to all Africa will be volunteers in 31 states and 8 incarcerated individuals, their celebrating its countries. families and those who work with 10th Anniver- them and to assist in the transition sary on the But, we need your help! of becoming a productive citizen. weekend of December 6, John A. Thompson, Jr. Kairos is seeking prayer partners, John A. Thompson, Jr. 2008 at Drakenstein Prison in new volunteers and financial do- Executive Director nors to continue to share Christ's Brett Beemer South Africa. Drakenstein is a low-security prison near Paarl in presence in prison. Presently, Chief Financial Officer there are approximately 600 pris- Paul McGlone the valley of the Dwars River in Director of Development and the Western Cape of South Af- ons in the USA which constitute Marketing rica. The prison is famous for our future mission fields. About Bill Rushing being the prison where Nelson 90% of all inmates will be re- Men’s Ministry Coordinator Mandela was incarcerated the leased one day to return to our Jo Chapman last three of the 27 years he spent communities and the annual cost Women’s Ministry Coordinator in prison for campaigning of housing an inmate exceeds Kevin Resnover against apartheid. $25,000. This is a significant is- Youth Ministry Coordinator sue in today's world and presents Judy Bartlett a mission so difficult it can only Office Manager Kairos Prison Ministry Interna- tional, Inc continues to share be accomplished by dedicated Ann Kreller prayerful Christian communities Executive Administrative Asst. Christ's love and forgiveness Brenda Campbell with inmates and their families working together and with God's Volunteer Support Coordinator in the United States, Canada, help. Janet Santiago United Kingdom, Honduras, Administrative Assistant Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Australia “About 90 % of all inmates Erica Warren and South Africa. We are cur- will be released one day to Torch Intern rently working with new volun- return to our communities Steve Gabriel teer communities in Peru and and the annual cost of Board President Uruguay. Mike Springer Lauren Wiebe housing an inmate exceeds

Vice President Vice President $25,000. ” Chuck Pollak George Brown Kairos, in its 32 years, has devel-

Secretary Treasurer oped three ministry programs: Watching Kairos Prison Ministry

Kairos Inside for adult men and volunteers share Christ in prison To submit stories and photos or to con- women; Kairos Outside for the tact Kairos leadership and staff, write to: is like having a front row seat at a Kairos Prison Ministry International Inc. female family members/friends miracle. Please help us serve Je- 6903 University Boulevard of the incarcerated and Kairos sus Christ. (I was in prison and Winter Park, FL 32792 Torch, an inside program for you visited me….Matthew 25:36). 407-629-4948 youthful offenders. Through Fax: 407-629-2668 these programs, Kairos volun- In Christ, E-mail: [email protected] www.kairosprisonministry.org teers have shared Christ's love John

Page 2/Winter 2008, God’s Special Time DEVELOPMENT

Kairos and God’s They were lifting off the roof lenging year financially, with their praise and singing. as are many individuals, Miracles There were no volunteers or charities and organiza-

outside groups present—they tions. To maintain our What a simply looked forward to gath- present efforts, our privilege ering every day on their own. budget at the Interna- and op- After that experience, I tional headquarters is 1.3 portunity thought of one of our favorite million dollars. We are in it is for songs. “Surely the Presence” need of $300,000 from Kairos Surely the presence of the Lord our important year-end Prison was in this place. I can feel His gifts to reach this goal Ministry mighty power and His grace. I and maintain our exist- Interna- can hear the brush of angels’ ing programs. tional to Paul McGlone wings; I see glory on each face. respond to our regular calls Surely the presence of the Lord Please prayerfully con- asking us to start programs is in this place. sider a year-end gift to in new locations. This is because our dedicated volunteers do see the Lord working in the lives of the incarcerated, their families and the correction officers. Just this past year, our ministries helped to bring Christ’s Love and forgiveness to over 25,000 new Kairos participants.

Recently, when I was in Costa Rica, working a Week- end, it was wonderful to see Kairos is there………. our Kairos graduates form When unity can give comfort to a troubled soul.… Christian communities be- As was indicated in a recent help us with our annual hind bars and to find their letter, you have been very fund. This will help us to new famies that sustain faithful with your year-end maintain and continue to them and help them to gifts and we do appreciate your grow this ministry that maintain their new life in ongoing support. This support brings Christ’s love and Christ. I asked to be taken enables our small staff, to- forgiveness to over down a very dark and damp gether with over 30,000 dedi- 25,000 men, women and hall where I passed inmates cated volunteers, to minister in youth each year. living in very overcrowded 401 communities/institutions conditions. In one case, in 31 states. We also minister God Bless, there were over 20 in one in 8 countries outside the U.S.: cell. There, in the middle of U.K., Canada, South Africa, Paul it all, were Kairos graduates Australia, Honduras, Costa leading over 40 inmates in Rica, Nicaragua and Peru. song and praise of Jesus.

Winter 2008, God’s Special Time/Page 3 KAIROS OUTSIDE All Were Present...

Ten National Kairos Outside Trainers along with Marilyn El- kins, National Committee Chair for Kairos Outside, under the direction of Jo Chapman, Coor- dinator of Women’s programs for Kairos Outside Prison Minis- try met this summer for 5 days preceding the National Kairos Prison Ministry Summer Meet- ing. 1st Row: Gabriella Gamez, Pat Rice, Donna Faichild, Marilyn Elkins The trainers began arriving on and Sandy Eng Friday to start the process of re- 2nd Row: Marilyn Himmelberg, Jo Chapman, Inez Thompson, Diane fining information to be used for Criss, Emma Jones, Sally Boutin, Mary Nelson the new Kairos Outside Ezra Program. Ezra is currently being Kairos Outside Ministry will soon Outside State Representatives. used by Kairos Inside and has have the advantage of EZRA for had great reviews from Weekend their Weekend Leaders. The trainers were very grateful Leaders. EZRA is a software for this time together and the program that provides Weekend Along with working on EZRA the accomplishments they made. Leaders with everything they trainers also looked at their cur- They were also grateful to Tom need to lead a Weekend. rent training materials and made Chapman, Joe Himmelberg and the necessary changes from sug- Phil Fairchild that so generously The trainers had been working gestions received from women gave their time to cook all the for several months prior to meet- attending Advanced Kairos Train- meals so the trainers could con- ing preparing information to be ing – Outside as well as valuable tinue working. considered for the new Kairos input received from Kairos Outside Ezra Software and they spent many hours reviewing and enhancing information that will Faith Gives Us Peace in Southwest Florida now be inputted into the software. Kairos Outside #1, June 6-8, 2008 By Diane Malcom heard about the women who are Mike Springer joined the trainers I would like to share with you the impacted by incarceration of a for a couple of days...Mike has beginning of KO in SWFL… I family member from Jo. Well generously given hours of his have worked on a team in Kairos let me tell you, it was like at- time and talents to make EZRA a for many years … then I heard of tracting a moth to the flame…. reality for Kairos Outside. Sally a new Kairos for women. The My heart was on fire! Boutin has and continues to give first meeting was in Ft. Lauder- hours and hours of her time in dale, FL. My husband and I, an- Gwen Collins and her husband, working with Mike and inputting other couple and Carl Armitage Greg, asked people to sign up to information into EZRA. Thank went to the informational meeting get involved. Thus began the you Mike and Sally... presented by Jo Chapman. We Page 4/Winter 2008, God’s Special Time KAIROS OUTSIDE CONTINUED journey to this incredible ex- We were given the gift of 34 team Boy, was I in for the surprise of perience. Little did we and 20 lovely new sisters in my life. I had a little taste of the know… Christ as the guests. love Jesus has for me.” R

∗“Being surrounded by chains and We drove 3 hours each way Since that time, God has blessed for 6 day-long team meet- us with the association of both the unending chains of prayer formed ings, plus the Weekend, plus team and guests from that Week- a hedge of protection following me the reunions. The drive with end. The reunion brought 54 of us home. I know that God protected Gwen brought together sis- together again to renew and re- us from a tornado that passed 30 ters in Christ. We shared our fresh! Some of the sharing was feet from my house. My faith con- families, our hopes and our inspiring: tinues to grow because of the dem- dreams. We took women ∗“Kairos Outside made my bur- onstration of God’s love from this from our area and nearby dens lighter”, D weekend.” M towns with us to experience ∗“I loved the walk in love. I was the Weekends as well as hus- ∗“I experienced great healing as I surrounded by angels, every bands and others to volunteer have felt bad all the time. I now women in my spot should attend a in this wonderful ministry. know that people love me any- Kairos Outside. No one should (We have been doing this for way.” V 15 years). I have been on the feel isolated or carry their burden ∗“As you can see, God’s presence state committee, the area alone as I was trying to do” V was with us and a lifetime of sister committee for both Kairos ∗“Kairos Outside is the next best hood that will only grow and sur- and now Kairos Outside. We thing to being in heaven” L have worn out two cars com- round us with joy.” ∗“Kairos Outside has brought me ing and going … what a blessing, we can replace cars closer to God and I cannot wait It has been a long journey but one but not the experiences and until the next weekend” M filled with Christ’s love and joy. I the growth God offered ∗“I had no special expectations. wouldn’t give it up for anything. me…. a new memory almost every time.

The dream of bringing Kai- ros Outside to the Fort Myers area took a while to come to fruition. My sister Gwen attended KO #8 when I was the leader. She even observed a Weekend in Virginia (#1) and met Jo Chapman again. Buddy and I attended a wed- ding at the local church and thought at the time that this would be a good future location for a KO Weekend…All of these events came together Front Row: Barbie Graff, Gwen Collins, Kathy Minasi much later. Middle Row: Vilma Durieux, Joan LaLiberte, Mary Howard, Sheila Pitt, The woman who got me Diane Malcomb, Priscilla Gainer, Jonelle Capitano, Diana Teeter, Marianne started on this journey, Gwen Salerno, Olga Berry Collins, became the leader of Back Row: Linda Lewis, Judy Vomacka, Liz Domino, Diann Samples, KO #1 here in Fort Meyers. Carol Ramp, Vicki Kimowich, Barbara Anderson, Jo-Lin Potts, Sara Ferris, Joanne Cicone, Debbie Henegar, Linda Lawrence. Winter 2008, God’s Special Time/Page 5 KAIROS MEN’S INSIDE

6. Kairos has many goals, in- PRISON MINISTRY WONDERFUL? cluding 'Christianizing' the YES WONDERFUL - BECAUSE: prison through building a Christian community where 1. In Kairos, you get to see Weekend, and the cooks, and inmates can support each other miracles occur right in front the cookie makers, and the let- in their faith. It is impressive to of you, as you watch people ter writers, and the poster mak- see these goals actually being actually change, people from ers-all united in God's work achieved over time, with real whom you might expect noth- and purpose. (You literally feel changes in the atmosphere, and ing good. You get to see these the prayers.) in attitudes of both inmates and changes not only last over 4. You participate in an ecu- staff. time, but grow. The team menical group with people of 7. Kairos is not evangelical and members also grow. widely varying theologies and we are not attempting to save 2. You see, feel and experi- find yourself sharing, being souls nor to directly bring ence the presence and the supported, and becoming at- someone to Christ. That is the work of the Holy Spirit in liv- tached in spite of your differ- work of the Holy Spirit, often ing color. It is powerful and ences. The effect of this unit- over time. Our job is only to intense. ing is quite powerful and bring in God's love to the resi- 3. You are part of a larger makes a big impression on the dents, and to let them become community, both the team and residents. aware of and to accept God's the resident/team community, 5. You come to understand the love for each of them. That can and also the people from meaning of Jesus saying, "I be a hard sell, as many of them around the world who are was in prison, and you visited find it hard to believe, but it praying for you and for the me." works, and that is the opening of the door. 8. It is not easy or all roses; there are steps forward and steps back, but overall, it works. Not all are called to this ”Invest in Joy; Invest in Happiness!” ministry and there are many (a phrase used in a recent commercial for Disney time shares) other types of needs crying to Prison Ministry be met. There are other prison There are many reasons for prison ministry, but the most com- ministries besides Kairos. But pelling ones are joy and happiness witnessed by there are many ways to partici- those who volunteer. pate in Kairos, from being a Prisoners who attended a Kairos weekend at Clermont C.I. in team member, to making September were truly hungry for spiritual nourishment. homemade cookies, to taking I was reminded of Jesus’ words in the Beatitudes: on prayer times, to attending a “Blessed are they who hunger and thirst after closing ceremony, and others. righteousness, for they shall be filled”. The work is inspiring and up- That may seem strange for those who are not familiar with Christian ministry to prisoners. But they, including those on lifting and extremely reward- the team, were filled and our cup did overflow. ing in many spiritual ways. Thanks to the many who supported and prayed for this unforgettable event. This was an article in the St Wendell Koontz, Kairos Volunteer Bedes’ Church Newsletter, Santa Fe, NM and was submitted by Kairos volunteer, Doug Puryear Page 6/Winter 2008, God’s Special Time MEN’S INSIDE CONTINUED

me away when I reluctantly God’s light shines all the Kairos “First” went on my own street-walk brighter, the darker the Experience this past spring but it truly room! Again, thank you to all stunned me when I was able to of you for your ministry and The Rev. Chris Arries served on participate in the showing and your spirit of love - God a Kairos team at McCormick sharing of God's love as a smiled and it doesn't get much Correctional Institution last member of the inside team better than that! week. This was his first experi- alongside all of you. ence with Kairos. He sent this I didn't mean to sermonize ... letter to the other members of When asked to share what they I really just wanted to share the team. were taking away from this with all of you my thanks for Weekend I'll never forget the your faithful service and to The first training meeting I simple and powerful answer share that we still haven't heard went to with the team for Kairos one resident shared at closing anything from the judge about #30, I'll never forget running when he said, "I am taking Je- our kids. Yes, the decision into Bill Bengston outside who sus away from was supposed to be made last asked me as we were walking this week- Friday ... and yes it is already into McCormick Baptist Church end!" Regard- the following Wed ... but this is if this is where the "Slammer less of where we obviously not a time for Gang" was meeting. I won- find God's offer chronos (clock-watching) but a dered then with a shocked look of relationship/ time for Kairos (fulfillment on my face ... and still wonder friendship/ time with God). Put simply, now, I suppose, if I could ever partnership, that statement is we know God loves us, that be so casual about the experi- impressive, the fact that it was God got these kids to us ... and ence and ministry of Kairos and is found in a maximum that whatever happens we even as his "name for the security facility truly takes aren't alone in this. team" has stuck in my head. I your breath away. Believe it or just wanted to share with all of not, the hostile atmosphere of Ministry is never about ease or you how special this past week- MCCI (for a Christian) is the comfort but about grace and end was. As I was telling one same that the Christian Church picking up a cross. We have a of my parishioners about the was born in. Fearing ridicule, loving God, prayer warriors in experience while driving back beatings and worse, the earliest the prison, the church and even from the prison he said, "It Christians never knew if their in the Episcopal parsonage re- sounds like you had a good faith was going to be minding God we are all in this time, preacher." I quickly cor- "discovered" by the Romans ... together and if it takes a little rected him saying, "I can say it and that to evangelize was a waiting to get to Kairos ... it was a powerful time ... an inter- treasonous act ... and yet that will be worth it, right? esting time ... something that difficult environment was the taught me more about our God place where new believers Thank you all for a chance at a of love and grace and even hu- were added daily and God's new and powerful ministry and manity as a whole but I don't will was powerfully felt. no, Tracy, I can't yet commit to think I will ever be able to de- As I watched the Kairos gradu- Kairos #31 but I've been told a scribe Kairos ministry as a ates, you know ... the Christian little waiting goes along with ‘good time.’ men, work behind the scenes being human until our God re- this past weekend and got veals/fulfills what is best to do I thank all of you for your shar- "God bless you, too'" in the and when to do it. God's ing and showing of God's love dorms as I hesitantly handed grace, peace and presence with for all of God's created! It blew bags of cookies, I know that all of you! Winter 2008, God’s Special Time/Page 7 KAIROS TORCH

The following poem was written by a young Putting Your Goals Into man who is currently participating in the Motion Before Kairos Torch program. Hopefully, this poem will give you, the reader, some insight the New Year into some of the hurts that these youth By Erica Warren, Torch Intern carry in their hearts. May this poem speak to you of the need for mentors and encour- For many of us, the beginning of the New Year is the age you to become one. time that we turn over a new leaf. Our list for 2009 may Mentors are a vital part of the Torch pro- include a variety of changes, from weight loss to prom- gram. ising to calling that distant aunt more often. It is a time for new vows and promises to change the world. When I Was a Kid

While there is no harm in making New Year’s resolu- tions, I must offer a question that is rarely asked: why When I was born I felt like a king not now? Too many times January 1st marks a new be- But being with you is the most won- th ginning, when December 12 , for example, is a per- derful thing fectly good time to start that new hobby. When I made trouble, I felt ashamed One great resolution to start early is reconnecting with I just didn’t want you to be blamed the youth. During the holiday season, the true meaning Sometimes I wanted to pry of Christmas may become muffled by the materialistic But you looked like you were ready to nature of our society. If you are a mentor, you can send your mentee a Christmas card and letter, letting them cry know that you are thinking of them. Invite the neighbor- When my Grandma died I didn’t hood children over for cookies, and want to abide ask them about the events in their All I wanted to do is stand by her side lives. When my Grandpa passed away By committing these acts of kind- I felt like I was led astray ness, you are making a change My step-dad was abusive within yourself before the standard start date. This is not So I tried to be elusive only the most effective resolution that you could have made, but it has made a bigger difference than any num- I finally sent him to the pen ber on a scale could have ever made. So I didn’t have to go through it again Inspiring a child is one of the greatest gifts that you Mom, you are all that I have left could give to the world. Again I ask, why wait? The change you want can begin with you taking that first And you are like my last breath step sooner than later. Mom, we will always be together Forever and ever Even though the times get rough We will get through this crazy stuff. Happy New Year J.M.

Page 8/Winter 2008, God’s Special Time KAIROS INTERNATIONAL

work hard to keep the old ones trusted and respected and has Peru Trip Report functioning. The bus system is made the Kairos entry as easy amazing and very effectively as we have seen so far. October 8-15, 2008 used. Still, getting around the Wayne Park – Kairos Liaison city takes a huge amount of Costa Rica Contact: for Latin America time. The bus time between the The travel of Juan Camacho to airport in Callao in the north attend the Men’s Weekend in I spent this week in Lima, Peru and Juan’s house in San Camilo Costa Rica was a sequence of to work with the Kairos leader, in the south, is well over two challenges. After many delays Juan Camacho, and the leader- hours. As in Central America, and incidents, he finally ar- ship team to help finalize rela- transportation will be a chal- rived in Costa Rica. Juan was tionships with the E. P. Peru lenge for Kairos in Lima. able to participate for only the Prison and to help with the Commerce in Lima is quite dif- last day of the Kairos Weekend definition and selection of ferent than commerce in Central in Costa Rica but the commu- equipment to be purchased for America. nity there worked diligently to the #1 Weekend. I also worked help him understand what he with Juan on the first team Products in the market place are had missed. After the Week- meeting, preparing for the E.P. different from what are com- end both Saul Guzman and Peru #1 Weekend which will monly seen in the U.S. For in- William Villalobos worked be held December 9 – 12, stance, coffee is not a common closely with Juan on passing 2008. beverage in Lima and coffee on the experience of Kairos in makers outside of what is used Costa Rica and how it might The trip was challenging yet for family use are not sold. apply to his efforts in Peru. It successful. The situation in Hard plastic products have not is also important to note that Peru is quite different from advanced in Peru like we see in Juan met John Ryberg and had what we have seen in Central the U.S. Plastic stackable good conversations through America. Because of these chairs are available but are not interpreters. John pledged differences I felt it wise to pre- made well to withstand heavy funds to pay for the travel of sent an overview of the condi- use. Plastic tables with foldable William Villalobos to the #1 tions before summarizing the legs aren’t available at least in Weekend. events of the mission. the size that we need in Kairos. Events:

Juan made an arrangement Perspectives: The Kairos seminar that was put with a friend, and actually now Lima is a huge city with a on in May as well as another a team member, to drive for us population of around 9 million that Juan presented by himself in his vehicle with an hourly covering an immense area. in July has generated a dedi- charge of 20 soles (20/3 in dol- There is only a small area of cated group of volunteers for lars). We spent 30 hours with high rises in the town center the makeup of the first team. him in the many activities of with the rest of Lima being All come from the lower in- the seven days there. principally small businesses come areas of Lima and from Juan, Coral (board member and and homes that rarely exceed all over the city. There is a a participant on Women’s two stories. Outside of the two good representation of Catho- Weekends in Costa Rica when high-rent districts of San Isidro lics and Protestants, clergy and a resident there) and I searched and Miraflores, the city is poor laity, men and women. With out the markets in Lima for yet at the same time, economi- his many years of ministry in tables, chairs and other inven- cally active. Roads are in poor the prisons in Peru, Juan tory items needed for Kairos. condition and trash is preva- Camacho has established a As per the comments above lent. Few that live in these ar- close working relationship with instead of purchasing tables of eas have cars and those that do prison authorities at all levels Winter 2008, God’s Special Time/Page 9 INTERNATIONAL, CONTINUED inferior quality, Juan will use his skills as carpenter and make all of the rectangular and round tables and a podium. I left funds for him to purchase the necessary materials.

The legal status for the not-for- profit organization called Aso- ciación Cristiana Kairos Perú is still in abeyance with approval expected this coming week. Juan is working with a lawyer, Leslie Laso, from one of the notary offices in Lima. She assured me that what had been submitted a full week earlier was in good condition and Pictured above are members of the Peru Team, along with Wayne that approval was expected Park, Kairos Liaison for Latin America, preparing their #1 Weekend within 15 working days. blessing for going ahead with I requested that I be able to as- I met with the Kairos board on the program. After my return sist Juan in the first team train- Sunday in a small church fur- however I received a call from ing. Again because of trans- ther south in Lima along the Juan saying that the director portation the best we could do beach. We discussed the items actually had read the manual was to hold two team trainings, that needed to be covered be- and contacted Juan with the one in southern Lima and the fore the #1 Weekend and I re- report of how impressed he other in northern Lima. I think ceived assurances that they was with the content and that the effort was worthwhile be- would be working in close co- he was truly looking forward to cause Juan could see how typi- ordination to make sure all was its startup. The agreement is in cal trainings are held and the accomplished. process of adjustment and sig- team could see the importance We then visited the prison E.P. natures by all parties. We vis- of humbleness and commit- Lima (originally known as San ited the area where the Week- ment to service. The remain- Jorge) where we met with end will be held. It is adequate ing team trainings will be held Sonia Calatayud who is in for a full 42 attendees with the on Saturdays in a central loca- charge of all the programs in need to use the same space as a tion in Lima with two trainings the prison and a full supporter chapel. The entry hall will in each session so as to make of the startup of Kairos in E.P. serve as a food serving area the travel time and cost as effi- Lima. She introduced us to and there is a small room at the cient as possible. Carlos Dioses Rizzi, the prison end of this hall for storage and Still to be completed is the lo- director. Juan and I provided a prayer chapel. We were cation and contracting of a him with an overview of Kai- promised that the normal use residence for the team for the ros and I shared the institu- of this hall will be stopped and Weekend. There are many op- tional benefits as we have that we will have complete use tions so, in spite of my con- noted from Kairos experiences of the space. The Closing will cern, the board was confident in other locations. We left a be in an open courtyard with that this issue was going to be manual with him and he gave a space for 100 guests. easily resolved.

Page 10/Winter 2008, God’s Special Time KAIROS OUTSIDE - THE GIFT ros Outside sisters. He first learned THAT KEEPS GIVING of the weekend from a wonderful, God-loving, lady that volunteers at Kairos Outside is a ministry of one to turn to. I am ashamed to the prison. At the time, my hus- Kairos Prison Ministry Interna- admit to you that I did not turn to band worked at the prison library tional, Inc. and it ministers to God. I was almost as angry with there where she volunteered. Then women whose lives have been Him as I was with my husband. just in case her testimony and en- impacted by incarceration. They I remember taking that long me- couragement didn’t work, God are the moms, wives, grand- morial weekend to have myself a brought a second witness to him. mothers, aunts, sisters, daugh- pretty successful pity party – all He was at a church service and an- ters and significant others of alone. The first of many. other inmate spoke about how his men and women who are in fed- wife’s life had been touched after eral, state, county jails and On Tuesday morning I went into she had attended the same Kairos youthful offender prisons. This survival mode. After all, I was Outside weekend. He was con- is a story of a woman who got basically a single mom again at vinced… I was still not so sure. involved in the Kairos Outside least financially. I had just ministry. started a new job six months ear- After much encouragement (or nag- lier and I had the responsibility ging as I felt at the time) on his part My world was completely to suck it up and move forward. I did agree to go and silently I was changed forever when my hus- I felt that I could never let any- thinking that at least we wouldn’t band went to prison nearly ten one outside of my immediate have to discuss it any more. As the years ago. The same anger, family know what was happen- weekend got closer I kept finding shame, rejection and all of those ing in my life. excuses not to go but each one was other nasty emotions that our somehow taken care of but one enemy uses to destroy us and Now if you can fast forward with week prior to the weekend I came our relationship with Christ lit- me to Memorial Day weekend up with the perfect excuse. I found erally took over my life. I was four years later; I was adjusted out that my grandchildren who live merely existing – barely – but I (at least I thought so at the time); in Wisconsin and I had not seen for was existing. There was not a both of my children had now six months would be in town. See- lot of love, peace and joy in my moved out. It was just me, our ing the kids was a much better life at that time. dog and cat at home most times. choice than going to a strange place I had a job that filled my days, with strangers. Well…. God had On Friday morning of the long many evenings and some week- other plans and I did attend the Memorial Day weekend in ends as well. I traveled an hour weekend. 1999, just a few days before my on most Saturdays so that I could birthday that year, my husband spend three to four hours with I have to tell you though that I did began his residency inside my husband. A very short time drive myself to the retreat center prison. It was not a time of to try to stay connected as hus- with every intention of leaving at celebration rather that particular band and wife. Each Monday the first opportunity. That was my weekend was the beginning of a morning, I started the routine plan. Are you familiar with the very dark time in my life. again. At that point I felt that I phrase “How do you make God When I look back now it is like was surviving and doing pretty laugh” – by telling Him your plan! watching a movie being re- well. Then my husband had the Well God did in fact have other played in my mind. I can’t be- audacity to tell me that I needed plans. lieve that I actually lived that to attend something called a Kai- life. My husband’s crime and ros Outside weekend – what the From the moment that I arrived at all the aftermath was like heck was that and why should I the retreat center, I was greeted by Noah’s great flood – it con- go? smiling, loving, kind ladies and they sumed me and I almost drowned God brought Kairos Outside to even knew in advance that I was in it. I remember feeling him through two of my now Kai- somehow connected with prison. trapped in a situation with no Winter 2008, God’s Special Time/Page 11 Wow! What a testimony to In that room I found the hope that about the situation but I also had a Christ’s love. That beautiful changed everything in my life. sense of peace knowing that there prison volunteer that I mentioned That hope was the glimmer of was an entire community lifting earlier was right there to greet me light that gave me strength to my family to god. My children on Friday evening. I remember mourn the loss of my previous were both fine when I arrived at that she gave me a great hug – not life, but to also look forward to the hospital other than some one of those wimpy, let’s get this the future instead of just surviving bumps, bruises and sore muscles over with and move on but a the present. and my granddaughter will turn warm, welcoming hug that said five this November. This is just she was truly glad that I was Each time I am with one or more one example but let me say what a there. I hadn’t been hugged like of my Kairos Outside sisters, I gift that prayer chain has been for that for many, many years. feel that same secure, safe place me, my family and friends. of my weekend and know that I As the weekend unfolded, I was am accepted just as I am and ex- Early on Kairos Outside weekends surprised to find that I no longer actly where I am. I am not alone we discuss choices and how they wanted to leave this safe place and I am now a member of a fam- can influence our lives. For me, where I was loved and encour- ily without boundaries, ready to choosing to stay connected to Kai- aged. They even let me cry and pour out their unconditional love ros Outside by working weekends, cried with me through the pain as and acceptance even when I don’t attending reunions and serving on emotions took over. I had not know that I need it. the ministry’s advisory council has been able to talk about these been one of my best life choices. things with long- We have a monthly Kairos Out- time friends and side family reunion. This is a In closing, I would like to ask each family. I couldn’t time for fellowship, prayer and a of you to prayerfully consider sup- discuss them with time for all who are able to recon- porting this beautiful ministry in my husband – I had nect and perhaps share some of any way that you are able. Lives to be the strong one our burdens. When I leave these, are being changed, restored, and to support him – he was the one I always feel uplifted and ener- renewed. My faith was awakened that had it tough. Remember my gized to go forward again – it’s on my weekend and I found Jesus survival instinct told me to suck it almost a little mini weekend! there through all of those beautiful up and not think about myself. ladies in that room. But with these strangers it was We also have a prayer chain for okay and they still hugged me! our Kairos Outside community. If Thank you all for the blessing of you have a prayer request or a being able to share a small piece of As the weekend progressed praise to share you can email or my journey with you. If anyone through all of those tears and call and ask that it be shared with wants more information on the laughter, I did in fact find all of everyone. Several years ago I re- Kairos Outside ministry go to the love, hope and peace that I ceived a call at work that both of www.kairosprisonministry.org and needed in order to accept God’s my children and my unborn see how you can connect with healing grace in my life. granddaughter had been in a car them in your state or country. accident. They were unable to You see prison connected me in give me any details other than This article that room but it is the love of they were taken by ambulance to was written Christ that continues to connect the hospital. My first instinct was by a KO our hearts and has made us Kairos that I needed prayers for them and Missouri Outside sisters and more impor- for me before I left for the hospi- guest and is tantly sisters in Christ. It is His tal so I sent an urgent email prayer a reprint love and grace that took all of my request before shutting down my from anger and shame and replaced it computer to leave. During that Guidepost with the security of a new family two hour drive to the hospital I magazine. and support system. can tell you that I was concerned Page 12/Winter 2008, God’s Special Time Kairos Advanced Training (AKT) AKT is for Kairos volunteers who are in or will be in may only attend AKT Inside OR AKT Outside a weekend leadership role, including Advisory Coun- Location: St Stephen's Episcopal Retreat and Re- cil or State Chapter positions, anywhere within the newal Center, 2310 N 56th St Phoenix, AZ Kairos program. AKT gives the what, who and why of Cost: $100 for registration, materials, lodging and the Kairos ministry. Kairos policy requires that all meals (snack on Friday, meals Saturday through Sun- weekend leaders must have attended AKT prior to day breakfast). We can start on Friday evening and leading a Weekend. end on Sunday when you typically start and end. So you'll have to let me know those times. Checks should January 9-11, 2009 COLUMBUS, OH be made payable to Kairos Prison Ministry Location: Columbus Cum Christo Center (AZ) Registration form can be found at: Cost: $130. Includes meals and snacks, lodging (2 www.kairosprisonministry.org/templates/system/ nights) and training material. details.asp Contact: Judy Gibeaut: [email protected] or 614- Contact: Ann Marie and Steve Lasswell, 457-6297 for more information. [email protected] or 602-256-9103, for addi- Notes: Attendees need to bring sheets, towels and pil- tional information including mailing address. Notes: low case as well as personal items. Sleeping arrange- Attendees will need to bring sheets/bedroll, towels ments are dormitory style. and pillow cases as well as personal items. Sleeping arrangements are dormitory style. We can arrange February 6-8, 2009 NORCROSS, GA shuttle service to the airport for arrivals 1/2 hour be- (Combined KI & KO AKT) fore starting. Heavy snacks will be served at 6:15 pm Location: Simpsonwood Conference Center, 4511 on Friday and we will end at 12:00 pm (noon) on Sun- Jones Bridge Cir. NW, Norcross, Ga. day. Additional late fee of $25 if you register after Cost: $205 for double, $295 for single, $175 for com- January 30, 2009. muters. Includes 2 nights lodging (except commuters), 6 meals and training materials. Please make checks March 6-8, 2009 PAOMONA, CA payable to KPMI,Inc. (KI and KO) Contact: Jan Thrower,[email protected] 352-473- Location: Trinity United Methodist Church, 676 N. 7896, for additional information including an applica- Gibbs, Pomona, CA 91767 Cost: $125.00 per person, tion and mailing address. make checks payable to GOLDEN STATE KAI- Notes: Participants need to bring personal items. ROS. Click here to access registration form Notes: Training will begin on Friday, March 6 at 5:00 February 20-22, 2009 WILLIAMSBURG, VA PM. A Light Dinner will be served that evening. Location: Patrick Henry Inn, 249 York Street, Wil- Training will end by noon on Sunday, March 8, with liamsburg, VA; 800-446-9228 or 757-229-9540 Cost: breakfast being the last meal served. If desired, a Double Occupancy $190; Single Occupancy $250; brown bag “Travel Lunch” will be provided. To be Commuter $130; Double and Single Occupancy in- certified as completing the training, you must be pre- cludes continental breakfast Saturday and Sunday sent for the entire time. Foam mattresses will be pro- morning plus lunch on Saturday. Commuter rate in- vided, but you will need to bring your own bedding, cludes lunch on Saturday ONLY; Make checks pay- toiletries and a towel. If you are traveling by air, make able to Kairos of Virginia. Contact: Jim Templeton at your reservations for Ontario International Airport. If [email protected] or 540-349-9623. For appli- you are coming in by air, and would like to arrange to cation and additional information go to have a sleeping bag lent to you at the church, please www.kairosva.org Notes: Reservation deadline to notify Cathy Langston – forever- guarantee room is January 24, 2009; Best Airport is [email protected]. Richmond, VA. Williamsburg March 20-22, 2009 AMARILLO, TX Feb 27-Mar 1, 2009 PHOENIX, AZ (KI and Torch) (KI and KO) Training will run concurrently so you Location: Bishop DeFalco Retreat Center, 2100 North Spring, Amarillo, TX 79107, 806-383- Page 13/Winter 2008, God’s Special Time 1811. Arrive by 6:00 pm and start at 7:00 Pm. May 1-3 2009 COLUMBUS, OH Cost: $195-single, (limited number of rooms) $160- Location: St. Therese Retreat Center Cost: $170 for double, (each) and $120-commuter. Fee includes non commuters and $120 for commuters. This in- two nights lodging, all training materials and the fol- cludes room (2 nights), meals, snacks, and training lowing meals: Friday evening; Saturday breakfast, materials. Contact: Judy Gibeaut, judy- lunch and dinner and Sunday breakfast. [email protected] 614-457-6297 for more informa- Contact: Mike Stumbaugh, 817-860-3500 (h) or tion Non commuters would fly into Columbus. 817-247-5403 (c)[email protected]) or for application and additional information. Checks June 5-7, 2009 JACKSONVILLE, FL should be made payable to KPMI - Texas. Location: Marywood Retreat Center, 1714-15 State Note: Attendees need to bring personal items only. Road 13, Jacksonville, FL (on the beautiful St. John's River) March 27-29, 2009 DENVER, CO Cost: $205 for double, $255 for single, $135 for Location: American Motel and Conference Center commuter. Please make checks payable to Kairos of Denver, Co. Check in and Supper is Friday night at Florida. Fee includes 2 nights lodging, 5 meals and 5:00PM with check out on Sunday the 29th at training material. 1:00PM. Contact: Jan Thrower [email protected] or 352- Costs: $130 for commuters; this covers all training 473-7896 for additional information including mail- materials, Friday night supper, 3 meals Saturday, and ing address and application. Sunday breakfast. For travelers $200 for double oc- Note: Participants need to bring personal items. cupancy, or $255 for single, this covers all training materials, Friday night supper, 3 meals Saturday, and July 10-12, 2009 RALEIGH, NC Sunday breakfast. Please bring your Blue Kairos (Kairos Inside, Outside and Torch) Location: Peace Manuals with you. College – 15 East Peace Street, Raleigh, NC 27604 Contact: Randy Borden via e-mail at rjbor- Cost: $160 per person – double occupancy; $190 per [email protected] or by phone at 303-469-7540. person – single occupancy ; $90 per person – commuters. Includes lodging for 2 nights (linens in- March 27-29, 2009 MONROE, CT cluded), 4 meals – Saturday Breakfast, Lunch and (KI, KO and Torch) Dinner and Sunday Breakfast (NO Friday night Location: Nazareth Spiritual Life Center, 1482 meal). All training supplies provided. Make Checks Monroe Turnpike, Monroe, CT payable to: Kairos of NC Contact: Ted Cashion – Cost: $165 - includes single room, Friday night [email protected] – 919 859 1709 or Bob snack, Saturday and Sunday morning full breakfasts Clinkscales – [email protected] – 252 426 and lunch on Saturday. Please make checks payable 7720 Note: Attendees need to bring personal items. to Kairos of Connecticut. Contact: Peter Brown at [email protected] July 29-Aug 2, 2009 BRADENTON, FL or 203-650-1404. Location: Dayspring Episcopal Retreat Center in Bradenton, FL. April 3-5, 2009 WAVERLY, GA Cost: Room rates are as follows: Private room Location: Honeycreek Episcopal Conference Center, $375; Semi-private room $275; Youth Cabin $185; 299 Georgia Episcopal Conference Center Rd., Wav- Dorm Room $170; Commuter $60 erly GA (40 miles north of Jacksonville). Contact: Chuck Bradley, hcikai- Cost: $200 for double, $240 for single, $125 for [email protected] or (727) 214-7087 for applica- commuters. Includes 2 nights lodging, (except com- tion and additional information. muters) 6 meals and training materials. Please make Notes: Persons staying in youth cabins or dorms check payable to: KPMI, Inc. (Georgia). must bring their own bed linens and pillow cases as Contact: Jan Thrower, [email protected], 352- well as personal items. 473-7896 for additional information including an application and mailing address. For additional trainings scheduled for later in the Notes: Participants need to bring personal items year, please visit our website: only, no linens. www.kairosprisonministry.org Winter 2008, God’s Special Time/Page 14 Moe Demmings, left, A Walk in Faith and Willie Chapman

The following article is courtesy talk about their experi- of the Marion Star, Marion, OH ences while inmates at Marion Correctional MARION - Four-dorm chow. Institute. The former Yard door open. Some things you prisoners are now vol- don't forget, such as a speaker in a unteer mentors working prison marking seemingly mun- for Kairos prison minis- dane events in the passing of try. (The Marion Star/ time. James Miller)

When Mo Demmings served time The first exposure to the pro- McKnight had his doubts when at Marion Correctional Institution gram is a three-day walk of faith, he was first invited to take part he had the bars to hold onto. He while subsequent visits by team a decade ago. "I said I don't also had time. members are monthly half-day think that's my calling. What I reunions. The men on the inside was saying is, 'There's nobody A walk of faith with a prison min- continue with their walk as they stupid enough to do that.' God istry named Kairos convinced the help each other. changed me and I came." former gang leader that there was something else. Now on the out- To Demmings, it was a life Demmings and Chapman said side, he recently headed back to saver. It taught him to forgive inmates experience a similar help others take the same walk of not only those who wronged change. Chapman said the min- faith he once took. him, but also himself. He be- istry breaks down racial barriers friended other inmates as they as Demmings described it as the Demmings and Willie Chapman looked out for each other, help- only place where an African- were two of seven inmates to vol- ing them stay on their path of American and a member of the unteer to help with what is de- faith. white supremacist group Aryan scribed as a short course in Chris- Brotherhood can hug and cry tianity. Volunteers and clergy "Brothers would say, 'Mo, together. spent Thursday evening, Oct. 23, c'mon, Mo. Don't do that,'" Dem- through last Sunday with 42 in- mings said. "We are all our "It gave the men a sense of re- mates as they offered Christian brothers' keeper." spect for themselves and each love to what Demmings called other," Chapman said. "What Chaplain Murthy Kola said Kai- Kairos did is separate all those "some of the baddest of the bad, ros was the first significant reli- worst of the worst." "This is like groups and bring them to- gious program introduced into a gether." we're in a war zone," Demmings prison that has since become said. "These people are missing in known for its faith-based work Chapman, who took time off his action. This is a spiritual war." with inmates. job to volunteer, had sacrificed before for his religious beliefs. Kairos Men's and Women's Min- Bob McKnight, advisory council istries is part of Kairos Prison He had volunteered to stay a chair for Marion County, said few extra days in 2003 to attend Ministry International, a Christian that since the programs were in- volunteer prison ministry led by a Promise Keepers rally. It troduced by former warden would end up being three years laypersons. The ministries send Christine Money the prison has teams of 30 to 40 volunteers into as the victim's family in his vol- seen less violence, fewer griev- untary manslaughter case ob- prisons to address inmates' spiri- ances and fewer inmates com- tual needs. jected to his parole and the pa- mitting further crimes after being role board overturned it. released and returning to prison. Page 15/Winter 2008, God’s Special Time He said he was never mad. As he experiences struggles, Dem- miracle in that cookie." mings credits Kairos with swaying LaRue United Methodist This is the first Kairos event that him from again living the life he Church has helped with the ef- he has attended since being re- once led. He figures he would have fort for years. Hughes and Pas- leased in 2006. While many of been released from prison either tor Ed Fugate said it goes back the inmates had asked him to way, but expects he would have to a congregation member come back, he wanted to wait been back in prison if it weren't for named Lawrence Fields, a for- until he had a job. Kairos. mer corrections officer who became known as the "Cookie Now an apprentice with a car- Chapman said he was already a Monster" for his efforts. Fugate pentry union in Cleveland, he Christian when he became incar- said it's another way that the described it as a joy and a bless- cerated, but it was during Kairos LaRue church is trying to serve ing to let the inmates see him in that he experienced God's love. He the community. civilian clothes instead of said it was a love that he had never "We've got a lot of people who "prison blues." He joked that the experienced. want to do a lot of good things," first thing he does when he he said. "What a way to share comes inside is look down at his "To see all these men hug me love, baking cookies. You can clothes. "If I see a blue shirt it's a genuinely, that changes my per- pray about people who receive bad nightmare," he said. spective," said Chapman. "The Bi- them." ble says God is love. I would never Demmings said many inmates know God is love. This is the mes- struggle to find a job after they sage I would take to the street. ANGS Troop are released. He said he even had This is the message I take to the trouble finding a church as he world." Have a New told a story about how one Reporter Kurt Moore: Badge to Earn church told him that it did not [email protected] have a prison ministry and sug- A new project for the American gested they would give him a Heritage call if they started one. "Our MIRACLES IN COOKIES Girls Scout- (Kairos) theme is listen, listen, MARION - It's a walk of faith ing Troop in love, love," he said. "We don't taken one cookie at a time. LaRue Dripping judge them. We don't condemn resident Stephanie Hughes calls it Springs, TX, them." the miracle of the cookie. Volun- is baking teers help bake enough cookies to He is hopeful that he'll get a job cookies for fill 200 or more bags of about two Kairos where he will be able to help re- dozen cookies each. The cookies habilitate inmates. Currently he Weekends. They have created a are taken into a prison during the special patch to give the girls is doing motivational speaking Kairos walk of faith as participants and he has done some other work who earn it by giving service to pass the cookies out to other in- this ministry. while he helps Marion resident mates, guards and with whomever Stephanie Hughes, a former else they come into contact. The American Heritage Girls is Ohio Department of Youth Ser- "These bags of cookies are one vices employee, on a ministry a non-profit scouting organiza- more person touched by love," said tion dedicated to the mission of project called "Mercy Missions." Hughes, who helped with the re- building women of integrity cent Kairos walk that took place at The ministry will focus on work- through service to God, family, Marion Correctional Institution in ing with at-risk juveniles in an community and country. For October. "Each one has a story re- effort to deter them from contin- more information, please visit lated to that cookie. Everybody ued criminal behavior. their website at: says 'oh, a cookie.' No, there's a www.ahgonline.org Winter 2008, God’s Special Time/Page 16 Men’s Inside Weekends Loc Institution WE # Leader Loc Institution WE Leader December 9, 2008 March 26, 2009 PERU E P Peru 1 Juan Camacho CA Folsom 5 Tim Palacio January 1, 2009 CA RJ Donovan 78 Jim Bechtold TX Ferguson 46 Rick Beale GA Rogers SP 20 Fred Daniel January 8, 2009 NC Pender CI 17 John Lowe AK Wildwood 3 Fred Miller NY Fishkill 19 Mike Helm January 15, 2009 TX Boyd 13 Steve Smith TX Stevenson 18 Leonard Reip TX Clements 31 Scott Stark January 29, 2009 TX Hightower 2 Douglas B. Chapman OH Ross CI 18 Greg Stout WZ CBCC 7 Douglas Spanjer February 5, 2009 April 9, 2006 TX Wallace 20 Scott Van Pelt GA Central SP 2 Robert Washington WV Huttonsville CC 12 Jeff Musgrave TX Polunsky 22 David Andrus February 13, 2009 April 16, 2009 CO Fremont 47 Rueben Duran AL Staton 26 Bryan Law PA USP Allenwood 15 Larry Brosious CO Delta CC 35 Glen Kimbrough February 19, 2009 CO Territorial 47 Mike Zwissler AL Bibb 16 Chris Jenkins GA Autry State Prison 20 Curt Scott GA Augusta SMP 44 Lou Carreras TX Darrington 43 David Noethlich LA LA SP Camp C 46 Richard Beall TX Hughes 24 Jimmy Carson NC Alexander CI 8 Lee McDow TX Neal 22 Scott Reid TX Hutchins 7 Virgil Van Schuyer TX Roach 19 Jason Musick February 26, 2009 TX Robertson 28 Mike Carter AR Pine Bluff WR Unit 31 Vern Lee April 23, 2009 IN Pendleton 4 Bob Bierwagen FL Charlotte CI 30 Walt Williams TX FCI Big Spring 9 Bob Taylor FL Marion CI Main Un 1 David Werner March 5, 2009 IL Stateville 7 Mike Crane TN West Tennessee SP 23 Patrick Siano, Jr. KS Hutchinson CF 15 Robert Sheetz TX Jordan 25 Terry Lee Hovey LA Winn CI 30 Mike Riddle TX Montford 21 Ron Allred NC Foothills CI 3 Tom Sehorn FL Lake CI 53 Emilio Burke TX Bartlett 10 Bill Miller March 11, 2009 TX Clemens 8 Philip Salminen MD Maryland CI 10 David Meadows TX Connally Unit 13 Dale Vickers March 12, 2009 TX Michael 34 Jim Clark AL Limestone CF 48 Mike Rafferty April 30, 2009 GA Ware 32 Jack Mounts CO Sterling South 12 Greg Oliver IN Wabash Valley CF 2 Keith Findley MO Crossroads CC 5 Lanny Wake LA Rayburn 8 Clint Crosier NH Concord 45 Jeremiah Landry MD MDCI 10 David Meadows OH Marion CI 25 Bruce Cameron OH LeCI (Lebanon) 38 John Theobald OH Toledo 12 Jim Jackson OH Tremble CI John Balough TX Allred 16 Larry Mills March 13, 2009 TX McConnell 27 Tom Mooney TX Vance 37 Jim Gibbs May 7, 2009 TX Walls 11 Chris Lallier AL WE Donaldson CF 49 Mike Harris March 19, 2009 TX Dalhart 20 Ralph Bamba NY Coxsackie 18 Gary Brodock May 8, 2009 OH North Central CI 2 Dan Mazik CO Rifle 8 PA Lake Erie CI 16 Jim Pfeifle CO Sterling East 6 Paul Benevides TX Eastham 17 Michael McGuinness May 14, 2009 TX Segovia Unit 4 Ralph Moglia FL Putman 16 Rich Hoshour TX Stiles 24 Scott Miller GA Hancock SP 32 Perkins Williams TX Torres 21 Al Talamantez TX Beto 40 Bob Jenkins Page 17/Winter 2008, God’s Special Time Women’s Inside Weekends Loc Institution WE# Leader Loc Institution WE# Leader January 1, 2009 April 16, 2009 CO Canon Women's 49 Katherine Igyarto TX William P Hobby Unit 25 Deneice Marshall TX Lockhart 9 Lois Lister February 19, 2009 April 23, 2009 GA Pulaski 27 Wanda Ellington LA LCIW 28 Carol Spisak March 5, 2009 SC Leath Women’s 14 Beth Van Orsdale GA Metro SP 8 Elaine Harbin TX Murray Unit 8 Angela Johnson April 30, 2009 March 12, 2009 KS Topeka CF 6 Kay Neises NM Grant Women 22 Linda Palmer May 14, 2009 March 19, 2009 FL Hillsborough 9 Christine Schlerf AL Tutwiler Prison/Women 48 Minnie Murrell June 4, 2009 OH Franklin PreRelease Cen 8 Dawn Gallen CO Denver Women's 11 Ruthmary Lyons Kairos Outside Weekends Loc Institution WE# Leader Loc Institution WE# Leader January 30, 2009 April 24, 2009 TX KO - Amarillo 17 Martha Duke FL KO – Central Florida 31 Andra Swan February 20, 2009 NM KO – New Mexico 19 Helen Gonzales MD KO – Maryland 6 Jennie Cochran May 1, 2009 AL KO - Alabama 23 Charlene Stone March 13, 2009 CO KO – Colorado 2 Mary Sogan TX KO – Corpus Christi 6 Gaye Hensley CO KO- Southwest FL 3 Joann Cicone TX KO – Houston 21 Connie McNeill GA KO – South Georgia 6 Sarah Godwin March 20, 2009 Shirrelle AZ KO – Tucson 22 Robin Timm-Smith LA KO – East Louisiana 3 Jefferson FL KO – NE Florida 9 Molly Howze NC KO – North Carolina 11 Cheryl Richard IL KO – Illinois 13 Kapucine Cheeks OK KO – East OK-Tulsa 7 Roberta Russell LA KO – West LA 19 Sharon George TN KO – West Tennessee 7 Vicki Kinder March 27, 2009 May 15, 2009 AZ KO – Phoenix 6 Pam Eastlund FL KO – Tallahassee 7 Mary Browning KS KO-I – Ellsworth CF 4 Barb Woodruff IN KO – Northern IN 6 Betsy Kastak SC KO South Carolina 5 Melissa Walser ME KO – Maine 5 Lynne Goodwin April 17, 2009 NH KO – New Hampshire 23 Cecilia Camari TN KO – East TN 13 Lisa Barnes GA KO – North Georgia 23 Mary Turner TX KO – Wichita Falls 6 Sue E Williams MO KO – Eastern MO 15 Gladys Meyer May 29, 2009 NY KO – Mid-Hudson 21 Magda Gonzalez Gina Walker- VA KO – Central VA 23 Jackie Delk MS KO - Mississippi 9 Sawyer TX KO – Midland 19 Gloria Cork TN KO - Northeast TN 1 Carolyn Bradley Torch Weekends Loc Institution WK# Leader Loc Institution WK# Leader April 10, 2009 February 6, 2009 AR Juvenile Assess/ CT Manson Youth Facility 3 Buck Coe AR Treatment Cen. Boys 13 Jimmy Dean April 24, 2009 March 13, 2009 Dwayne Jennings GA Susmter YDC (Boys) 13 Jana Jones OK SWOJC 15 Laura Gauthier Winter 2008, God’s Special Time/Page 18 stay with my husband and to Bailouts A Wife’s Prayer do this time with him regard- By Brett Beemer, KPMI CFO less of how long that time was On May 4, 2001 my husband was going to be. Our family was While many of us have differ- sentenced to a term of 45 years to going to love him and support ing opinions about whether the be served in the him any way that we could. $850 billion bailout was Texas Department of Not a day went by that Kurtis’ needed there is at least one Corrections. I’ll name was not lifted up to our item of good news for all of us. never forget walking Father, praying that he would As part of the bailout, the Pen- away from the court- be safe and that in this time he sion Protection Act of 2006 house that day won- would grow closer to God. was extended for the tax years dering what was to 2008 and 2009. become of our lives and how God Standing in line at the Coffield was going to use this mess for the Unit in the summer of 2003, I This extension allows individu- greater good. was approached by a woman als who are at least age 70 1/2 who was waiting to visit. She to take an annual qualified tax- On May 5, 2001, the day after asked if I had ever heard of free distribution paid to certain Kurtis’ sentence, I gave birth to Kairos Outside, and told me charitable organizations and our baby girl who arrived three about this awesome Weekend. not be taxed on the distribu- weeks early. It was from that day She encouraged me to attend, tion. The IRA makes the pay- forward that God made his pres- and said the main theme is that ment directly to the charitable ence evident. Our daugher truly I would be pampered. I group and does not show up on was our rainbow after the storm. thought it was one of those the individual’s taxable income weekend spa deals. for their IRA. This would be Once Kurtis made it to his ID nice for our volunteers who are Unit my journey as the wife of an I gave her my information and getting their IRA distributions inmate actually began. For the the following week I received and then making a contribu- next several years I would learn the application. In October tion, as this may save them how to manage the prison system 2003 I was a guest at Kairos some money. and how to make this journey Outside North Texas Weekend holding my head up high. 15 at Lake Sharon Christian I would note that since the dis- Center and my life was tribution is not being taxed Having a loved one incarcerated changed forever. Never could they will not get a donation is a difficult road to travel. There I have imagined the joy, accep- are moments of shame, guilt, em- letter for the contribution and tance and pure love that would barrassment, isolation and the be poured out to women who that it is always advisable for feeling of rejection. Most of the individuals to talk to their tax were broken. There was some- feelings I had were self-imposed thing totally different here. adviser to make sure that there inasmuch since I had the support Every woman understood the is no adverse affect on other of a loving church. Here I was, a first hand pain of having an aspects of their tax return. married woman and yet my hus- incarcerated loved one. band was not in the picture. I did not fit in with the women who I came home a changed woman were single parents, or the women who had a mission. I had to be going through a divorce, or the part of this ministry to share women who had lost their hus- this joy and love with as many bands to death. women as possible. I could not I made the decision early on to wait to share this experience

Page 19/Winter 2008, God’s Special Time with my husband. When I tis to come home via an 18- only way this was going to go found out Kairos was in his month faith-based program at in the direction God wanted Unit at Coffield, I strongly the Carol Vance Unit in Sugar was for me to take the focus urged him to get on the waiting Land, Texas. This was even from me and see what I could list. In 2005 Kurtis was a par- better than I could have hoped do to help others who were on ticipant at Kairos 25 and felt the for. God knew what Kurtis a journey similar to mine. same joy and love I found on needed most. This coming my Weekend. November 2008, Kurtis will The gift of Kairos Outside have completed the program opened doors Fall of 2005 Kurtis had his first and will be on his way and intro- parole review. Our family be- home!!! duced me to gan praying that it was God’s some of the will that he would come home, Seven years ago I was told my most treas- but he got a one year denial. husband would be gone for a ured friends We accepted it as the Lord’s really long time. I gave my- and relation- will. Fall of 2006 approached, self, my marriage and our ships. As a family we have and the children and I began family over to God and asked learned the importance of praying that if the Lord felt him to do with it what He de- obedience, forgiveness and Kurtis was ready to come home sired. I am trying to walk in servant hood. God took what He would make a way. When I His will. was a tragedy and made it into called the Palestine parole of- something truly beautiful. fice, the lady on the other end of This been such a spiritual There are so many wonderful the line said: “Parole granted journey for me and I have things I could share about this with an FI18R”. I had no idea learned to surrender my all to experience. There are many what all that meant other than the Lord. It has not always ways God made his presence my husband was on his way been easy. There were times I evident in our lives, but for home! was very discouraged, but the now, this is all I have. thought of quitting never en- God was making a way for Kur- tered my mind. I knew the Our prayers continue to be with the many families who are affected by the incarceration of a loved one. We pray for the volunteers who serve InIn LovingLoving MemoryMemory and make a way to share God’s love to so many who are hurting. What a blessing Kairos Prison Kairos and Kairos Outside has Ministry International been to our family. What joy it has been to serve in this Often, people who have lost a loved one ask that a tribute gift be ministry. May God continue made to their favorite charity in lieu of flowers. to let His light shine so that A memorial contribution to Kairos Prison Ministry pays thoughtful many others will be blessed tribute to the memory of your loved one. Donations will support by His love. sharing Christ’s love with the incarcerated. A memorial Letter will be sent to the family of the bereaved, to- Much love in Christ gether with the name or names of the donors. The amount of the Liz Compton gift will not be disclosed. People making a donation will receive Kairos Outside a letter from Kairos Prison for their tax-exempt contribution. North Texas

Winter 2008, God’s Special Time/Page 20

The Staff of Kairos Prison Ministry International, Inc. would like to take this opportunity to thank “you” our dedicated volunteers. Because of your tireless dedication, Kairos continues to bring Christ’ love to those affected by incarceration. May you and your family have a safe and blessed Holiday Season.

blessings upon us as we Holiday Messages from Kairos Volunteers: seek to discern and be obe- dient to His will. We have At this time of Advent and us in the Kairos community sought to use His gifts and Christmas, we wait with long- as living out our call to ser- expand them to serve in- ing for Jesus -- GOD in the vice and our call to spiritual creasing numbers of broth- flesh, present to each of us in a growth through Kairos. ers and sisters who are in- very compelling, personal and Everyday in Kairos is a carcerated or have loved real way. And as Kairos vol- Christmas when we meet ones who are impacted by unteers and staff, we continu- Jesus face-to-face. incarceration. As the holi- ally meet Jesus in a very real Rejoice! days arrive, may we be ever way in the guise of inmates, Steve Gabriel, mindful of the love and for- family members, correctional KPMI Board President giveness we receive and officers, and each other. Re- prayerfully share with all. joice -- what a blessing this is! Our heavenly Father con- Bill Young, As Board President, I see all of tinues to pour out many KPMI Board member