what we do
We work with ex-offenders during and after incarceration to aid in their personal journey with God. This includes evangelism, discipleship, and leadership.
Since the beginning of this ministry in 2006, the primary method for connecting with a new person has been through Gary Skinner’s book, Plain Vanilla Wrapper. It is Gary’s personal story and has often been an encouragement for those in jail or prison to dedicate or re-dedicate their lives to Jesus Christ.
Once a connection is made between an ex-offender and this ministry, they are given the opportunity to participate in our Lessons for Life Correspondence Course. It consists of twenty-four lessons to help prepare them for a successful transition back into society. This includes becoming a productive member of society, the restoration of relationships, and maturing in their personal journey with God.
After they are released from jail or prison we offer further participation through our Lessons for Life support group, men’s and women’s small groups, and life coaching. Once a person is established with our ministry we offer ministry leadership training. This training can be utilized for volunteering within our ministry, leading a small group of their own, or starting and leading their own ministry.
During INCARCERATION
Plain Vanilla Wrapper
This book is Gary Skinner’s candid and often humorous account of his journey with God. It serves as a powerful tool of encouragement for those who are or have been in jail or prison.
Letter Correspondence
This course was written to assist those who are or have been incarcerated to experience transformation as described in Romans 12:2 (NLT) Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
Lessons For Life - LIVE
In some facilities it is available to participate in the Lessons for Life Course with an on-site instructor. Please contact us if you would like to know which facilities are offering this opportunity and/or if you would like to volunteer to facilitate a class yourself, using our materials.
Post-Incarceration
Lessons for Life
We offer the same class on the outside as we do on the inside. We currently meet on Thursday nights from 7:00pm – 8:30pm at 16 N. Union, Colorado Springs, CO 80909.
Life Coaching
Once a person is released from prison, we offer six one-to-one coaching sessions. These usually consist of six, one hour sessions where one of our trained life coaches assists you in discerning God's path for you.
Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.
Discipleship
Much of this takes place through relationships. Those relationships can be developed by participating in our church services, small groups, men’s and women’s groups, and volunteering at Shiloh Chapel. For more information, contact us.