Meet Our Chaplains

Our Allegan County Jail Ministry

Allegan County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

Volunteer Opportunities

Testimonials

Our Barry County Jail Ministry

Barry County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

Volunteer Opportunities

Testimonials

Our Bay County Jail Ministry

Galatians 6:6-10 states:  "Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor.  Do not be deceived:  God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.  The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction;  the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.  Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."

As chaplain, I go in the jail telling inmates God has a standard and if they try to get around that standard they are deceiving themselves.  There needs to be a change, the choice is theirs!  We present the Gospel weekly through Bible studies, worship services and one-on-one counselling

Bay County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Spiritual Counselling
• Bible Study  
• Worship Chapel Service

Volunteer Opportunities

Testimonials

Our Benzie County Jail Ministry

Our Berrien County Jail Ministry

As full-time chaplain for the Berrien County Jail Ministry I have the privilege of ministering to an average of 375 inmates daily, with the help of an associate chaplain volunteer.  Our mission is to provide spiritual guidance and a way to break the shackles of sin through Jesus Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life.  We offer bible studies, worship services, one-on-one counseling and a Monday night catwalk ministry. We distribute books and magazines through the library cart.  There are also group bible study classes, a 12-step program for substance abuse, and Anger Management classes.  

Berrien County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• In December we provide "Christmas at the Jail" by presenting each inmate with a gift bag of candy, cookies, fruit, a soft drink and a gospel tract.  It is an opportunity to share the Gospel with the men and women in jail as the volunteers pass out these gifts. This is made possible through the gifts and donations from churches and individuals of Berrien County and nearby communities.  It is one way to show the inmates that there are people who pray for them and do care about them. 
• Our Annual Spring Stewardship Dinners provide an opportunity to meet with our FMM supporters and friends. Ministry updates are given by FMM's Executive Director, John Fehler or a ministry representative, and our county Sheriff Paul Bailey provides information and updates on the jail.  The highlight of the evening is the special testimony shared by one or two former inmates whose lives have been transformed while in jail through God's word, Bible studies and the ministry.
• Another fun way to raise funds and awareness of the Berrien County Jail ministry is through our annual Golf Tournament.  This year's golf outing is scheduled for August 29, 2009 at Indian Lake Hills Golf course in Eau Claire, MI.
• We always look forward to invitations to speak and share about FMM and our ministry at the Berrien County Jail.  We enjoy sharing through mission's fairs, a Sunday or Wednesday service, or other meeting opportunity. If your church would like to learn more about FMM and our jail ministry, please give me a call or email.

Volunteer Opportunities

Anyone desiring to volunteer with FMM at the Berrien County Jail must contact Chaplain Russ Simonson.  Volunteer candidates are required to submit a Background Check form with copy of current driver's license to Chaplain Russ.  A temporary driver's license is not acceptable.  All Background Check forms are processed and approved by the Berrien County Sheriff's Department.  Volunteer must be willing to commit to volunteering at least six times in one year.

• Men's Bible Study teacher for Tuesday morning
• Men's12-step teacher for Wednesday mornings.

Results:  Testimonials

• Thank you for the Bible study courses.  These studies have taught me what I need to know about Christ and what to do to get to Christ and to Heaven.  Thank you for the beautiful Bible.  I really needed it for my journey to everlasting life.  Thanks again for everything.  It has really helped me have a better life.  Sincerely, Shalamar

• God has used the FMM Bible studies and His word to change my heart.  I am ready to start a new life in Christ.     Male inmate 
• I have recently finished by Bible studies, book one and two.  These Bible studies helped me by bringing out of retrospect and placing into proper perspective, that man can only serve God in spirit and truth.  In doing these Bible studies I was reacquainted with what it means to be a Christian, to repent and…to walk in the fruit of the Spirit and not to walk in the flesh.        Sheri
• The most important part of this course to me was learning that God loved me!   Delores….so much that he sent his only son here to earth to die for my sins, and make a way for me to come back into fellowship with him for all time.  He really does love me!     Delores 

Our Branch County Jail Ministry

We have 100 - 120 male and 17 - 25 female inmates. I am available for spiritual one on one counseling.  Contact me for speaking engagements.

Branch County Jail Programs

• Church Service - Mondays - 6:30 - 8:00pm
• Magazine and Library cart distribution - Tuesday evenings
• Bible Studies for male and female inmates; counseling for female inmates Wednesdays -1:30 - 3:00pm
• Counseling for male inmates - Thursdays - 6:00 - 9:00pm
• Christmas at the Jail
• Annual Stewardship Dinner

Volunteer Opportunities

• Become prayer partners for the ministry
• Be active volunteers in Church Services and Bible Studies
• Help inmates continue their spiritual walk upon release
• Assist in correcting Bible Studies

Results:  Testimonials

• I am writing to thank you for the Bible you sent me after completing the Basic Bible Studies.  I will put this Bible to work every day of my life.  Thank you for giving me the chance to do your Bible Studies.  It has given me a different look on life and knowing God.  Chaplain Dave Brown is the best chaplain you could have sent to this jail. Trenton

Our Cass County Jail Ministry

My wife, Sara and I began serving as Forgotten Man Ministries Chaplains in 1994 at the Cass County Jail.  We were redeemed and saved by His grace in 1969.   Sara and I have studied Pastoral and Systematic Theology at Bethel College.  In response to Christ's great love and command we began assisting the late John Meyer, the Cass County Jail Chaplain in 1993.  The Population for the Cass County Jail is approximately 125 residents.

Cass County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Sunday Chapel Service - 7:00 p.m.
• Maximum Security Special Services - 8:00 p.m.
• Monday - Men Bible Study - 8:00 p.m. - Women Christian Video and Discussion - 8:00 p.m.
• Wednesday - Women Bible Study - 8:00 p.m. - Men Christian Video and Discussion - 8:00 p.m.
• Thursday - Book Cart Ministry - 1:00 p.m.
• Christian Counseling, Grading Bible Studies, and Jail Ministry related activities are conducted throughout the week.
• Program to Commemorate the Resurrection of Christ Christmas Program

Volunteer Opportunities

• Prayer and Financial Support
• Local Ministers speak and teach during the Sunday Chapel Services and Bible Studies
• Associates and volunteers promote fundraising and awareness
• Church Book Drives for Book Cart Ministry
• Volunteers are needed to help grade inmate Bible lessons exams and inmate services
• Thank you for your prayers and support of the FMM Cass County Jail Ministry

Results:  Testimonials

• Greetings in the name of Jesus, I am writing this letter to tell you how I was blessed by God through my incarceration.  It is my belief that being incarcerated in the Cass County Jail and meeting you was a blessing sent from God. I was not living my life for the glory of God and failing myself.  I know that the direction that I was going was the wrong way.  I thank Him for placing me in a place where I could receive the blessing he promised in His Word. I am saved today and I thank God for placing you in my life.  I Love my bible (FMM Bible Course Awards Bible) and I read God’s Word daily.   Kim  
• I've been in the Cass County Jail and attending the Forgotten Man Ministries services since mid November. Today (Dec. 18th) I discovered your newsletter and thought it important to thank the ministry for being there for us inmates.  In particular I’d like to thank Chaplain Ross and his wife Sara.  Chaplain Ross of Cass County has the perfect balance of compassion and correction.  Godly dedication and devotion is the example set by this humble man and I just felt compelled to share this with you and your readers.  Thank God for the Christian Cooperation of Cass County and Captain Affriseo.    Patrick
• I'm here to say if it weren’t for FMM/Chaplain Ross I would have never known the importance of accepting Jesus Christ as my savior.  Through his teaching I understand the Word of God which has made it possible for me to allow myself to put my life in God’s hands.   Damien

Our Clinton County Jail Ministry

Clinton County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

Our Eaton County Jail Ministry

We have 140 male and 25 female inmates.  Chaplains are available for spiritual one on one counseling, and visit inmates in cell blocks every Monday and Tuesday from 9:00 - 11:00 am and 1:00 - 3:30pm.

Eaton County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Worship Service - First Tuesday of the month - 9:00am
• Music Service - Third Wednesday of the month - 7:00pm
• Christmas program and treats - Monday and Tuesday before Christmas - 1:00 - 4:00pm
• Moto Religion Class - six week Alpha Bible Study offered quarterly
• Forgotten Man Ministry Bible Studies

Volunteer Opportunities

• Pastors to preach at our worship services
• musicians to perform at our music service
• volunteers with Forgotten Man Ministry training - inmate bible lessons, spiritual guidance and counseling
• volunteer help needed with fundraising, grading Bible Studies, holiday baking, publicity and inmate services.

Testimonials

• We often hear an inmate saying, "I was here for Christmas and they give you a sack filled with cookies and candy.  Not only do we give the inmate a sack of candy, but we also present the greatest gift of all, the love of the Lord Jesus Christ.  He is the one who paid for the gift of eternal life.  Our whole county has an opportunity to participate as the business and church community provide cookies, candy, and fruit for the inmates.

Our Genesee County Jail Ministry

Chaplain Al Novak coordinates God's ministry teams within the County Jail and is responsible to share this outreach opportunity with local churches and the general Christian community. Assistant Chaplain Sue Nolff is a part-time employee and assists with daily ministry programs and oversees the female jail ministry. We have 32 volunteer FMM Associate Chaplains that assist with daily ministry programs. In addition 150 volunteers (plus) assist with Biblical counseling and aftercare ministries representing their local churches. We have 45 local churches that participate in our Friday Worship Services. Jail population is usually 590 male inmates and 60 female inmates housed daily in the jail.
See local website for additional information:www.forgottenmangenesee.org

Genesee County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Coordinate daily inmate Bible distributions - provided through the 4 Gideon camps of greater Genesee County
• Bible Correspondence Course  - distribute and correcting
• Weekly Book Carts - using soft-cover donated and purchased books and magazines
• Coordinate all Friday Worship Services (45 local churches)
• Coordinate 3 FMM "intake area" preaching teams and distributing Gideon pocket testaments
• Coordinate 50 group Bible studies that meet weekly
• Coordinate the many volunteers to provide personal Biblical counseling to inmates
• Oversee Wednesday and Friday prayer teams
• Coordinate Christmas at the Jail Programs
• Thanksgiving Day Program
• Resurrection Day Inmate Poster Contest
• Assist in coordinating a yearly FMM golf outing (August)
• Coordinate MSA/FMM Jail Chaplaincy Training classes (March)
• Coordinate FMM annual stewardship dinner and program (October)

Volunteer Opportunities

• Serve as a chaplain's representative with your local church for yearly dinner, golf outing, and chaplaincy training
• Personally complete the jail chaplaincy training course and assist with daily ministry programs
• Commit to praying for us every day
• Attend and invite your Christian friends to attend our yearly FMM dinner
• Commit to assist with "aftercare" programs and mentoring
• Recognizing that the inmates cannot support our mission endeavors, please commit to sending a monthly contribution

Results:  Testimonials

I cannot begin to express what the Forgotten Man Ministries programs have done for me while I have been incarcerated. Thank you also for making the Bible study courses available. I wanted to finish the entire series before I went home. I have the envelope to send to Grand Rapids to request the final two courses. Also I would like to give back my testimony and service. Truly Thank You! Once again I would like to give my sincere thanks for your programs.    Robert

Our Grand Traverse County Jail Ministry

Our Huron County Jail Ministry

Huron County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

Our Ingham County Jail Ministry

We have 630 male and 70 female inmates.  I am available for spiritual one on one counseling. Hours are Monday - Friday from 8:00 - 4:30.  Contact me for speaking engagements.

Ingham County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• 12 Chapel Services
• Addiction classes
• Christmas at the Jail - Inmates receive Christmas cards and stamps to be mailed out to family and friends
• Clothing is provided for those in need when exiting from the Jail
• Biblical Counseling is provided 
• Library Cart available to distribute books and prayers to inmates

Volunteer Opportunities

• Book Cart Ministry
• Counselor Volunteers
• Computer operators in the Office for scheduling of Services

Results: Testimonials

• I would like to thank you for the Bible and Bible studies and the other pamphlets that you gave me.  I would like to go further into the Forgotten Man Ministries and someday witness in the Jail and other places as well.  Thank you again.  Jeff
• I am faced with sentencing this upcoming week.  Please keep me in prayer.  I have very much appreciated these studies,  Church and the work that you and the volunteers do.   Chris

Our Ionia County Jail Ministry

Ionia County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

Volunteer Opportunities

Results:  Testimonials

Our Kalamazoo County Jail Ministry

Chaplain Dick Larson along with Chaplain Gord Geurink are in charge of the spiritual programs at the Kalamazoo County Jail. 

Kalamazoo County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Walk Thru Program - Monday and Thursday nights - Volunteers are allowed to go from cell to cell ministering the Word of God
• Church Services are on Sunday afternoon - Local churches are scheduled for these services
• Hygiene and Personal items - Handouts for indigent inmates

Volunteer Opportunities

• Donations of bar soap, shampoo, lotion, vasoline, tooth paste, deodorant, combs (soft), white men's tee shirts,briefs and women's panties, bras
• Donation of games, puzzles, cards, magazines, books (soft cover), Bibles (soft cover) - These items can be left at the front lobby of the jail for the Chaplain.  Call Chaplain Dick for specific sizes and product.
• Walk Thru Program and Church Services uses men and women from local churches with a recommendation of the pastor from their church. 
• Annual Stewardship Dinner is held in the spring
• Correspondence Bible Course Ministry

Testimonials

I received a very nice Bible along with an Advanced Study Course the other day from Chaplain Gordon, a hard working missionary here in the Kalamazoo County Jail.  I wanted you to be aware of the fact that thanks to your selfless giving and care I am now aware of God's grace.  I shudder when I think of where I might be heading right now had I not found the love and support of other Christians to make me aware of Christ's life for me.  From the bottom of my heart thank you for your love and support as I begin my journey to learn more of Christ and the purpose of my life in serving Him.   Paul

Our Kent County Jail Ministry

The Kent County Correctional Facility houses over 1400 inmates in three separate facilities. The main jail at 703 Ball NE, the Community Re-Entry Facility (formally Work Release) at 1330 Bradford NE, and the Honor Camp in Gowen, Michigan.

Ministry to such a large population can be a bit overwhelming.  To accomplish this we have adopted a team ministry model.  Our goal is to reach as many inmates as we can with the prospect of freedom that comes from a relationship with Jesus Christ.  We are very thankful for our staff of Chaplains and volunteers.  Currently we have 12 Associate Chaplains and over 500 volunteers who work countless hours. 

Kent County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Bible Distribution:  The Bible we give them may be the first Bible they have ever owned. Bibles are distributed within 24 hours of receiving a request. Approximately 2,400 annually distributed at a cost of $10,800.
• Worship Services:  Volunteers from various churches conduct services in the individual dayrooms.  There are 41 services each week.  Most services are conducted by lay people.
• Library:  The Religious Library is stocked with religious books focusing on primarily on Christian Living.  All books are donated by churches and individuals.  Books are distributed weekly throughout the facility by 2 Associate Chaplains.
• Biblical Life Principle Pod (BLPP - first of its kind in Michigan):  A housing unit which holds 30 men and 30 women who are in Biblical instruction 6 hours a day, 5 days a week (3 days for women).  This unit is taught by Chaplains and Volunteers.  The classes include –

1. Biblical Life Principals
2. Parenting
3. Heroes of the Faith
4. Anger Resolution
5. Marital Relationships
6. Self Confrontation
7. Substance Abuse
8. Who I am in Christ (self esteem)

• Bibles Studies:  Every inmate has an opportunity to attend a weekly Bible Study.  Bible studies are conducted by volunteers, in various areas of the facility.
• One on One Counseling:  This is our most effective method of discipleship in the jail.  Each month over 400 sessions are conducted by Chaplains.
• Catwalk Ministry:  On Sunday afternoons, a group of 12 men walk the catwalk in the maximum-security area.  They disciple the men and hold worship services.
• Community re-entry Center (CRC - Formerly Work Release):  The CRC is a building separate from the main jail.  This facility houses 285 inmates (men and women).  The focus of the CRC is to help inmates re-enter society as productive citizens.  This facility has its own team of Chaplains, who with many volunteers, conduct weekly worship services, Bible studies, distribute Bibles, and do individual and marital counseling.
• Mentoring Program:  Our focus is on continuing the discipleship process once the inmate has been released.  This is accomplished by volunteer mentors who follow the inmate with weekly meetings for 6 months after release.  Two mentors are paired with one inmate.  The goal of the mentoring program is to successfully incorporate the ex-offender into the local congregation.
• Christmas in the Jail:  At Christmas time, Volunteers assemble bags containing books, pamphlets and goodies donated by area businesses and individuals and deliver them to the inmates.

Volunteer Opportunities

Where can you serve?

• Form a team from your church to conduct worship services
• Teach a weekly Bible Study
• Be a part of the weekly catwalk ministry (men only)
• Office work
• Coordinate a book drive for our library
• Plan a special program for the Biblical Life Principle Pod
• Form a prayer team to specifically pray for the jail ministry
• Become a mentor
• Teach a class in the Biblical Life Principle Pod

Chaplain Bill would be happy to meet with you to further explain any of these ministry opportunities.

Results:  Testimonials

My name is David and who I was before I came to the God Pod (Biblical Life Principals Pod) was one ugly human being inside and out. Hate, anger, drugs, alcohol ruled my life, but it wasn’t until I came into the God Pod that I  started to see the ugliness that was created from a life of drugs and alcohol, which, I must say, was my fuel to keep all my pain inside my heart and mind.  All I really wanted to just die, so my pain couldn’t hurt me anymore.  It seemed way to much for me to bear, especially when I found out I was going to prison.  I thought it was over for me and there was no coming back, so I thought!

From my first day in the pod, I was still in doubt about myself and where I was heading, but Chaplain Richard Fuller, our brother in Christ, gave me. Our studies, prayer, and singing all in the name of our Father gave me courage to at least try.  Not to mention, the other thirty other men, which worked as a group, opening a door I did not understand.  Seeing this gave me so much inspiration, to at least listen to the word, which opened a door to my heart that could not be closed.

That door was my heart.  I began to feel pain, because before all I did was hide it.  So I cried a lot and was afraid to trust my feelings to anyone, even God.  Chaplain Fuller told me one day I would have to get up in front of the whole God Pod and face my fear of not trusting, by telling everyone what I was afraid of most - saying how I felt and trusting people in the pod.

I cried that day, in front of men I really didn’t know, but they listened to my fear of not knowing how to trust them or God with any pain.

So, what did I receive from my fear?  Courage because those men welcomed me with open arms and clapped for me for what I done and shared.  It opened a door of hope that has carried me over the last year and half.

So what have I gained from the Pod?  Friends whom I trust, love for God who is my salvation in all times of stress, and good, old fashioned discipline which I came to respect from our study groups in this class, which I carry to this day.

I also gained the trust that God’s fingers are running through all my trails, whether good or bad, so I can see my life through Christ’s eyes and never though my own.  Trusting in myself to try and change my life would have meant never opening the doors to God’s grace, mercy and most of, his love!

Even though grace is a gift from God thought Jesus Christ our Lord, I would have never seen this love without the God Pod.  David

Our Lake County Jail Ministry

Our Lapeer County Jail Ministry

We average 90 - 110 male and 8 female inmates.  "Jesus came to seek that which was lost."  (Luke 19:10)

Lapeer County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Three weekly Men's and Women's Bible Studies in the Pods 
• Bible Study Correspondence Courses
• Church Services and One on One Counseling
• Inmate Christmas Party
• Annual Stewardship Dinner and Golf Outing

Volunteer Opportunities

• We need volunteers to teach and counsel
• Be on pastor rotation for weekly church services
• Participate in Golf Tournament and Stewardship Dinner

Testimonies

• God believed in me enough to pick me up.  Now I'm changed.
• Thanks to Forgotten Man's Ministry and the Word...my son and many others will be able to turn their lives around.
• I almost ended my own life that night...I listened and took every word to heart.  You've taught me a new whole way to live.  God's way.  I thank you from my heart.

Our Leelanau County Jail Ministry

Our Livingston County Jail Ministry

I have been doing the jail ministry for about the last 21 years - I began by accepting an invitation to come along and observe a service at the Washtenaw County Jail.  The morning of the day I was to go and observe the volunteer called to tell me that she was too sick to go and asked that I go anyhow.  I said yes and went and that day God confirmed to me that I needed to continue to volunteer.  I started at 1 time a month, then 2 times a month and then weekly for about 10 years at Washtenaw County Jail.  An opportunity arose to begin to volunteer at the Livingston County Jail - which was closer to home so I began.  I was asked to be considered as an Associate Chaplain, a position I held for a couple of years.  Then the current Chaplain David Beaton passed away.  So there I was willing, trained and ready to take over at Livingston County.  I have been in the position for about the last 7 years.  I truly love the Ministry and I love to present the "BEST NEWS" in the universe to the folks who really could use some good news.  Jesus the Way, the Truth and The Life.  We are grateful for the Faithful volunteers and donors that make the Ministry vital and fruitful.  TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

Livingston County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Chaplain is availabe for many one on one sessions
• Sunday Church Services in all areas of the jail at 2:00pm
• Women's "Recovery Class" titled "Walking the 12 Steps with Jesus Christ" each Monday at 10:00am
• Men's "Recovery Class" titled " Celebrate Recovery" each Monday at 1:00pm
• Bible Study every Tuesday evening at 7:00pm
• Bible Study every Thursday afernoon at 1:00pm
• One on One Counseling on Tuesdays for the women inmates 

Volunteer Opportunities

• Conduct Sunday Church Services
• Teach a Bible Study Class

Results:  Testimonials

Our Mecosta County Jail Ministry

Mecosta County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

Volunteer Opportunities

Results:  Testimonials

• My name is Beth and I am an inmate at the Mecosta County Jail in Big Rapids.  I would like to take a moment and thank you for all you are doing to help me further my education in Christ.  I thoroughly enjoy the Bible studies offered by Forgotten Man Ministries and have graduated to the Advanced Bible Studies.  People like you are the reason I am able to take these courses.  God Bless, Beth

Our Missaukee County Jail Ministry

Missaukee County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

Volunteer Opportunities

Results:  Testimonials

Our Montcalm County Jail Ministry

We average 160 Male inmates and 20 - 25 female inmates.  I visit every dorm on Tuesday and Fridays getting inmates Bibles, Bible Studies, christian literature to read and make appointments for one on one counseling.

Montcalm County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Sunday afternoons - 1:00 - 4:00pm - 3 Chapel Services
• Monday - mornings - Biblical Life Principles Class                  Evening - 3 ladies do Female Bible Studies
• Tuesday - I do rounds to every cell - Associate does one on one counseling - Man in the Mirror Class
• Wednesday - I do one on one counseling, plus teach God Pod Class - Reformers Unanimous Class
• Friday - I do rounds to every cell, plus my wife does one on one counseling with female inmates - Work Tech (Job readiness) Class - Anger Resolution Class 

Volunteer Opportunities

We have 22 volunteers involved with

• Ladies bible Studies
• Associate counselors
• Biblical Life God Pod instructors
• A.A. class instructors

Results:  Testimonials

• I want to thank you for your sponsorship.  If you did not sponsor the Bible Studies, I wouldn't of learned as much about God as I now know and thank you for the wonderful Bible.  Its been an eye opener and a turning point in my life.  Again thank you for the Great opportunity.  God Bless,  Jeremy
• Thank you so much for being part of my life.  It is because of your help I have found Jesus.  I have learned many things with the help of your Bible courses.  I have learned that I am not alone, I'm not just wasting away.  I have a friend who cares for me.  I never knew of this friend in my past 46 years.  I knew of Him, but never cared to meet Him.. Since I net Jesus, I have opened my heart to those who in the past I would have turned from.  It is because of Jesus and your help, I am hungry to help those who need a friend.  I enjoy helping new inmates that struggle the way I did.  I would love to show them my new friend and show them what he has done for me.  I thank you FMM for your help.  Most of all, thank you Jesus.  I love you and praise thee.  Clifford 

Our Montmorency County Jail Ministry

Our Muskegon County Jail Ministry

We have 332 male and 66 female inmates.  We have approximately 120 volunteers.

Muskegon County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Local Church Worship Services
• Discipleship Programs
• Bible Study individual and group
• Bookcart
• Mentoring class for release
• Catwalk Ministry
• TV Ministry
• One on One Counseling
• Work with Western Michigan Teen Challenge
• Drug and alcohol small group discussion
• Bible Correspondence Courses

Volunteer Opportunities

• Book Cart - Hand out Bible Studies courses
• Answer phone
• Grade Bible Studies
• Teach discipleship programs
• Volunteer for Catwalk Ministries
• Bible Studies
• One on One counseling
• Donate magazines, soft cover books and Bibles
• monetary donations and inmates personal items

Results:  Testimonials

• I wanted to briefly touch base with you and share the fact that the opportunity to serve in and be served by the jail ministry has truly been a blessing.  If I may confide in you Dexter, the ministry has been motivating for me and instrumental in my decision to return to college.  I'd like to thank you for the patience you've shown this past year particularly with "eager beaver volunteers". much like myself.  I especially appreciate you lending as ear and your input when I brought my personal concerns to you.  Once again, I'm looking forward to your input and welcome suggestions from you.  May the Lord watch and keep us all. In Christ, Carlinda
• Thank you so very much;  you came and put your heart out there to hurting men of all ages and from all walks of life.  Please know that the Lord used you mightily.  Many thanks in 'Christ Jesus', Linda

Our Newaygo County Jail Ministry

Our Newaygo County Jail Ministry provides encouragement, evangelism and discipleship opportunities for over 200 inmates at White Cloud, Michigan.  A unique part of the ministry is the make up of the inmate population.  60-70% of our inmates are Federal Prisoners who are waiting to appear at the West Michigan Federal Court in Grand Rapids.  On any given day we have men and women from many different states and countries.  Our Spanish speaking inmate population continues to grow as this nation deals with the illegal immigrant issues.

Newaygo County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

Our Osceola County Jail Ministry

Our Ottawa County Jail Ministry

Chaplain Larry Norman became interested in the jail ministry because he had a real burden for those that are down and out.  God laid it on his heart and he knew that it was only by the grace of God that he himself was not in jail.  Chaplain Larry believes that others should become involved in the jail ministry because it is part of the Great Commission to obey God and because it is rewarding.

There are approximately 355 male inmates and 45 female inmates at the Ottawa County Jail.  The Ottawa County Jail has about 70 volunteers.

Chaplain Larry's vision for the County Jail includes:

• Revival
• God be Glorified
• Discipleship

Ottawa County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Bible Pod - Chaplain Dan Maguire
• Bible Studies
• Church Services
• Bible Based Substance Abuse Program - Families Victorious
• Christmas at the Jail
• Toylift - Salvation Army
• Annual Stewardship Dinners

Volunteer Opportunities

• One on One Counseling - 3 times a week
• Church Monitors for Sunday Afternoon Service
• Grade Bible Studies on Wednesday afternoons

Results:  Testimonials 

• I have to thank you from the bottom of my heart for doing this program.  I know God brought me to this jail because of the way my life was going and I can gain the knowledge I need to live a real life in the real world.  Without the Bible pod I'd still be sitting in the blocks cursing, degrading, gambling, and stealing.  My way of life has changed so much already that I feel like a different person.  But, then agian, I am a new person.  A Born Again Christian, born Octover 9th, 2008.  Thanks be to God and you.  Thank you  from the bottom of my heart.  And may you be blessed.
• Chaplain, I want to thank you for the opportunity to be in the Bible pod.  It has really been a great experience.  I have only been here about two weeks so far, and have learned a lot.  I never knew how fun and interesting it would be to learn about God.  I have always believed in God, but never really accepted Him into my heart.  With the help from the Bible pod I have been able to.  I want to thank you guys from the bottom of my heart for this opportunity.

Our Roscommon County Jail Ministry

How I got started in the county jail ministry:  I was involved in the prisons "Keryx" programs.  The chaplain at the Roscommon County Jail became sick and the undersheriff asked me to do the Tuesday evening church service.  When the chaplain could no longer do his duties I felt the call from God to serve as the jail chaplain under the direction of the Forgotten Man Ministries.  With this calling I am also involved in the community with the Salvation Army, Teen Challenge and visit nursing homes.  In my travels I meet former inmates who I encourage to continue to read their Bibles, find a local church and  and be involved.  It is encouraging to see these new converts. 

Roscommon County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Worship Service for Women on Sunday Evening
• Worship Service for Men on Tuesday Evening
• Associate Chaplains and Volunteers assist me at the jail with one-on-one counselling
• Distribute Christian literature and devotionals

Volunteer Opportunities

• Christmas at the Jail Program
• Easter Program
• Support Groups

Results:  Testimonials

Our Saginaw County Jail Ministry

The Lord put the desire in my heart over 35 years ago to work in the county jail.  It was through my training with FMM that I got involved.  My vision for the Saginaw County Jail is for people on the outside to be involved in discipling those that accepted or re-dedicated their faith in Christ.  Many times our jails are over packed and this is very troubling to me.  I would love to see our jails empty one day.  Jesus is the only one that can change a heart.  Saginaw County Jail has over 450 male inmates and over 50 female inmates.  Beside the churches that do Chapel Services we have 8 volunteers who help with the ministry.

Saginaw County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Alcohol and Drug abuse classes
• Anger Management classes
• Thinking for a change classes
• Bible Studies
• Friday night we offer 5 church services conducted by community churches
• Sunday we have 3 more churches providing services in the afternoon;  two for men and 1 for ladies
• Every Christmas inmates are given a "Christmas Bag"
• Throughout the year we supply Christian books and videos

Volunteer Opportunities

• Several volunteers conduct Bible studies
• We have mentors that come in on specified days to work one on one with inmates
• Church to do worship services

Results:  Testimonials

• Thank you for giving me the opportunity to study in depth the Book of Hebrews.  Hebrews is a great epistle that emphasizes the finished work of Christ and how we have security in Christ.  I like how the study states "Throw away your wish-bone, straighten up your back-bone and stick out your jaw-bone and go on."  Due to a house fire in 1986 I lost three wonderful children to God and now another one in an accidental drowning on March 15, 2009.  It takes faith in God to go on with the evidence of things not seen.  I know in my heart my children are with God and all my loved ones are waiting for me in Heaven.  I still have a lot of work to do here on earth and I am thankful and blessed to be able to do for others what Christ has done for me.  Thank you dear sponsor whoever you are to let me continue to study God's Word.

• Thank you for everthing you have done for me.  I'm blessed to have had the chance to meet you.  You have opened my eyes to alot of things so that I could get on the right track.  I wish I could have spent a little more time with you.  I promise you I will keep in touch with you while I'm in prison. 

Our Shiawassee County Jail Ministry

Our Tuscola County Jail Ministry

We average 90 - 100 male and 8 female inmates.  "Jesus came to seek that which was lost."  (Luke 19:10) 

Tuscola County Jail Programs and Special Occasions

• Two weekly Bible Studies
• Bible Study Correspondence Course
• Videos/DVD's once a week
• Weekly Church Service
• Inmate Christmas Party
• Cat Walk Ministry:  Individual Peer Counseling
• Annual Stewardship Dinner
• Golf Tournament Fund Raiser

Volunteer Opportunities

• Be on pastor rotation for weekly church services
• Participate in Golf Tournament

Testimonies

• We discussed my circumstance and where I was in relation to Christ.  I might as well have said a million miles away, because of a wretched life of sin.  As we concluded our discussion he prayed for me; as we prayed tears came to my eyes, I couldn't control myself.  My heart began to beat like drums; I could feel my self being filled where I was once empty.
• I just wanted to thank you for guiding me toward the light...I have also enjoyed attending the church service you provide for the jail.  I have learned a lot about Jesus being present during your service.
• While incarcerated, I did the Bible Study and completed it... I love my new Bible.  I've set some goals for myself which include reading the Bible daily.

Our Van Buren County Jail Ministry

Our Wexford County Jail Ministry