I have the privilege of being the Chair of the Classis Central Plains Home Missions Committee, and had the honor of serving as the Chair of the September 2010 meeting of Classis where the proposal to pursue a new prison congregation was presented. It was a joy to watch people recognize God’s hand at work and respond with joyful enthusiasm.
Nearly two years ago, I contacted Mary Mortenson of Prison Congregations of America, and we enquired with prison staff about a church plant, but the prison wasn’t open to us. Still, we knew that there was a tremendous opportunity for a church plant, if God would open the doors.
In the last few months, God has been opening doors, and His people have been ready to step through. As Home Missions Chair, I had the privilege of being at the meeting with the staff of the prison to inquire about doing a church plant, and was overwhelmed when the staff asked us when we could start. Seeing a solid calling church step up to the plate, having Christian Reformed Home Missions commit to support, and meeting Rick (and now Rose) Admiraal, it was clear to me that God was bringing all the pieces together. And at the meeting of Classis, the delegates could see Rick’s passion and how God had opened the doors. With joy, Classis voted unanimously to begin the ministry and provide support for it.
God has brought all the pieces together. It will be a joy to see the mighty works He has in store for New Life Prison Church. Praise be to His holy name!
By Pastor Jeff Sajdak - First Christian Reformed Church of Pella, Iowa
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