Today we visited the Indianapolis Juvenile Correctional Facility. This facility is the girls prison for the entire state of Indiana. Since it is a high level security facility, it was quite an experience for these kids (and sponsors) who had never been “frisked” before. But everyone survived and we were treated with kindness and respect. We were especially thankful for the help of Chaplain Casey-Allen (far right below) who we worked with for weeks beforehand, and Officer Pearson (center below) who escorted us through the facility.
Before we began our program, the chaplain asked if there was anyone who did not want to attend a religious program and a couple of girls were escorted out. This left the door open for James to share the gospel with freedom. It was a difficult environment–large gym, loud fan blowers, and 147 troubled girls–but the kids sang with passion. At the conclusion of the gospel presentation at least 50 girls raised their hands to acknowledge their acceptance of the gift of salvation. Only time will tell if a work of God occurred in their hearts, but we know the Lord is near to all who call on Him with a sincere heart. Psalm 69:33 says, “For the Lord listens to the needy and does not despise His own who are prisoners.” What a wonderful promise to claim for these girls.
Next stop: St. Louis. Other than NYC we’ve been on the bus 8-10 hours a day, so to only have a 4-hour bus ride today was a welcome change. When we arrived we had just enough time to check into the hotel before another “surprise” event. The first night it was “Prince of Caspian.” In NYC it was The Blue Man Group. Tonight it was BOWLING…
We had ten lanes lanes and everyone bowled 2 games and had a lot of fun. (Even if a certain director who shall remain nameless did ask his assistant more than once in a surprised tone when she was leading her team, “You’re ahead?”)
After bowling we ate at a buffet and of course, we sang for the hostess who so kindly found tables for 44 hungry people. When we returned to the hotel, those who wanted to swim did so–girls first, then boys. Can you believe it was the first opportunity for swimming in the 10 nights we’ve been in hotels? (Of course you can! You’ve read the posts and seen the pictures of what all we’ve done.)
After swimming we had our Secret Saint share time. When we left on the trip each student and sponsor was given an envelope with the name of a person and a character quality card. During our 11-day trip we each observed our person and noted what character qualities we saw in them. Tonight we sat in a circle and beginning with Bro. James we each shared the qualities of the person we were watching. Then we revealed the identity of our Secret Saint. It’s a time of celebration and affirmation which strengthens the bond between us in Christ by learning to recognize and appreciate others.
Tomorrow it’s back on the bus one last day. It’s hard to believe it’s almost over, but we’re excited to return home tomorrow and share with our church family all that God has done in us and through us.
Dear friends,