STORIES OF FAITH From a HISTORIC PRISON

Finding the Way

We met Johnny in the early 1990's.  His family has some connection with Jehovah's Witnesses, but none were spiritually strong during Johnny's formative years, when e needed spiritual and moral guidance. Johnny drifted into a life of crime. He was sentenced to serve in the federal prison camp adjacent to the Atlanta penitentiary.  During his term in the camp, he learned of our Bible study classes and decided to attend.

At first, Johnny could barely read. However, he was so eager to take in more knowledge  about Jehovah and Jesus Christ that he was determine to learn to read proficiently .  (John 17:3) Our study classes often help inmates in this regard, especially when it comes to reading comprehension and public reading.  Johnny worked so hard at his studies that his fellow students began to look up to him as an example of what a serious Bible student should be.

Many months later Johnny was transferred to the federal facility in Talladega,  Alabama to attend one of its educational programs on drugs. Upon his arrival, he quickly got involved in the Christian meetings of Jehovah's Witnesses that were held there. He maintained an active role until he was finally released. And when that happy day arrived, Johnny wasted no time tin contacting the Jehovah's Witnesses in his small home town. He was warmly received and continued to study and make spiritual progress.

Johnny's enthusiasm and love for Bible truth has also encouraged his mother to become more involved in congregation activities. He is a great source of strength and practical help to her.  Recently he as baptized in symbol of his dedication to Jehovah God, and he continues to have an active share in the Christian ministry.

A Bountiful Harvest

During the past two decades, more than 40 inmates at the Atlanta penitentiary have been helped to become baptized ministers  of Jehovah's Witnesses; more than 90 other inmates have also benefited from weekly Bible studies. Other prisoners have been baptized after being released from prison or moving to other prisons.

Those of us who visit this historic prison week after week to assist truly penitent inmates are thankful to serve in this unique Christian ministry.  (Acts 3:19; 2 Corinthians 7:8-13)  In a grim setting of gun towers, guards, electric gates, and gleaming coils of razor wire, we have been filled with joy and awe to see federal criminals turning their lives around and becoming honest citizens  and faithful worshipers of God. -1 Corinthians 6:9-11. -Contributed

Next time: YOUR BODY'S MICROSCOPIC "TRUCKS" 

From the jw.org publications