My name is Mike. As a child, we went to mass in a Catholic Church. When I was older and could choose, I chose to not go anymore, but I often went at Christmas with my mom and dad. I was led away from God’s word for many decades and eventually came back to God. I’d go to mass and confession, and enjoyed being there.
After my incarceration, I went to mass each week and met with the Chaplain weekly also. It was at that time that I started doing Bible studies with Crossroad Bible Institute (note: now Crossroads Prison Ministries). It took me a long time, but I completed and sent in the test booklets.
When I was released, everything went well until I had a breach of condition four years later. It was at this point that I asked if there were resources for Bible studies, and I also asked the Chaplain for Crossroads’ address. I was given the information and have been involved and adamant about doing my courses with my heart, soul, and mind.
It was at that time that I realized that Jesus our Saviour can forgive my sins directly, and I did not have to confess to a priest. It was then that I became a Christian and read the Bible, cover to cover.
I’m so grateful for the courses, for they have taught me so many new and interesting things. I have used many of the teachings in every day life, and I find the lessons are really well put together. I experience things in a spiritual way, and can/will speak to Jesus/God in my everyday life.
I should add here that I don’t mean I’ll know all there is — far from it! But the Gospel is a part of each and every day for me. Whenever I skip a day or two from the Bible, I feel that something is missing. I strongly believe that God brought me to prison at that time so I would become close to God.
Mike was released in late 2016 after completing Tier 1 of Crossroads Prison Ministries’ courses. At the time of this writing, he has nearly completed Tier 2. His name has been changed to protect his privacy.
If you would like to donate to Crossroads and help our ministry reach more people like Mike, you can do that here.