The United States has about 1.8 million people incarcerated, which is many more than any other country in the world.
That means there is plenty of work for America’s Christians as they follow the direction laid out in Hebrews 13:3, “Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.” Epiphany’s volunteers in the Storybook Project are doing their part to support those in prison and their extended families.
The Storybook Project Prison Ministry is built around the simple idea that men and women in prison deserve the opportunity to read to the children they love. We visit five different prisons each month.
MonDay Community Correctional Institution – Approximately 220 men and women at two locations.
Dayton Correctional Institution – Approximately 900 women.
Warren Correctional Institution – Approximately 1300 men.
Lebanon Correctional Institution – Approximately 1700 men.
When we visit a prison, we take books for all ages. The inmates choose books that are appropriate for their children and other family members. They read and record those books onto a QR code along with a personal message of love. The books and the recorded QR codes are then mailed to the families so they can hear the voice of their loved one and know that they are loved and missed.
Who benefits from this ministry?
- The children, because their parent is sending them much needed love by way of a recorded book while they are separated.
- The inmates, because we are giving them an opportunity to communicate with their children in a meaningful way and feeling good about themselves in the process.
- The community, because we are encouraging continued bonds between inmates and their families that will hopefully continue after the inmate’s release.
- The caregivers of the children, because they are encouraged by the love that is sent not only to the children but to the entire family that is suffering while their loved one is in prison.
- The volunteers, because they receive a great deal of gratitude from the inmates.
We have been visiting prisoners since 2001 and have sent over 21,000 recordings and books.
Here is an excerpt from one of the many thank you letters we receive. “My daughter… was just given the opportunity through your church to send her son a book and recording. My grandson is 9. He cried and cried over the book (her message written inside) and the recording. But it was a happy cry. I just want you to know what you do makes a difference and is greatly appreciated.”
To get more information about participating with this ministry, call the Church Office at 937-433-1449 or email . We are in constant need of funds to buy books, QR code stickers, mailers and postage. Please consider helping the Storybook ministry with a donation. Thank you.