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Each week ABCCM’s Jail Ministry volunteers conduct Bible study programs at the Buncombe County Detention Center. These programs are an extension of the local churches in our community. Our volunteers connect with the inmates as they bring a message of hope, forgiveness, and the love of God for each person. That connection extends beyond the county jail. Our volunteers pray for each inmate, not only while they are incarcerated, but after their release.
Chaplains Norm Sanders and Vanessa James meet with inmates individually. They minister to many violent and non-violent offenders as well as inmate families bringing comfort and healing through the message of Jesus Christ.
Just when you think all hope is lost and nothing is working Jesus shows up through the staff and volunteers of the ABCCM Jail Ministry. That’s just what happened in Jasmine’s life.
Jasmine grew up in an abusive home. Drug addiction plagued the entire family. Her mother passed away while she was young, and Jasmine’s father spent most of his life in prison.
Though Jasmine did what she had to do to survive she was trapped in an endless cycle of abuse. By her early 20s, Jasmine had been arrested 15 times and spent time in a state prison and rehab. But nothing changed, and Jasmine lost hope.
On her last trip to jail, Jasmine attended a Bible study program. As she participated she noticed something different happening inside of her––hope began to grow. As a result, Jasmine gave her life to Jesus and asked Him to heal her broken life.
Jasmine is now a resident at ABCCM’s Steadfast House where she has completed a 90-day rehab program and is earning college credits to improve her career opportunities. Currently Jasmine is employed in the food service industry and is working hard to make changes in her life. Supported by an ABCCM Jail Ministry volunteer Jasmine continues to grow spiritually attending church weekly. Her favorite Bible verse is Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the thoughts I have toward you, says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future.”
A special thanks goes out to Jail Ministry volunteers for their faithfulness to take the good news of Jesus Christ to the inmates at Buncombe County Detention Facility.