Redemption Church is sponsored by the Methodist Criminal Justice and Mercy Ministries. It is for prisoners of the two pre-release centers near Lawton, Oklahoma. We pick up the men every Thursday evening and Sunday afternoon and take them to a local church where they are served a meal provided by volunteer churches and then a church service. Their families are allowed to also attend these activities.

We need to have some training to become "badge" people and have the responsibilities of keeping them out of trouble while under our care. They enjoy the fellowship with their families in a more comfortable setting. They also enjoy the food that has been cooked with "love". We are just trying to show them a little grace. We know they deserve to be where they are, but they are also "children of God".

I enjoy the experience and the church service is so energetic. It is predominantly led by the inmates; with them doing the readings, leading the songs, prayers, offering, special music and greeting time. After each does their job, everyone claps for them. What an uplifting time. They know that it could not happen without us, so they are very appreciative. We also try to find them work boots, jackets, and some other little things they might need to enter the work world. After they are released, we encourage them to continue to attend and keep up their ties with the people there. When I am in town I really enjoy my time with these men and their families.