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Imagine coming out of prison with the clothes you’re
wearing and $100. Your reputation is shattered, your clothes
will soon need to be washed, and your cash has to cover your
food, personal items, lodging, and transportation. Now imagine
the joy in finding Crossroads Connection, a ministry that for
nearly ten years has supported those who have been released
from prison. Initially Crossroads volunteers helped out on Sunday
evenings when certain inmates were permitted release time for
Christian worship, food, and fellowship. Now Crossroads volunteers
deal with problems confronting a new release. Volunteers accompany
ex-offenders on their day of release, helping them obtain any
assistance needed and providing other necessities that would
be virtually unaffordable otherwise.
Crossroads owns one dwelling and rents another to residents.
To qualify, a potential resident makes a commitment to Jesus
Christ, promises to seek and find a job within thirty days,
agrees to participate in a designated support group, and pays
rent after one month. “This has been my most ecumenical
and ethnically diverse relationship in forty-five years of ministry,”
says the Rev. Roy Fox, chair of the board of Crossroads.
Crossroads Connection receives contributions annually from
the Mission and Mission Interpretation Committee of the presbytery,
pledges from eight congregations, and other forms of support.
The Presbytery of Missouri River Valley has 11,502 members
in 55 churches. |
