"But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all your works."
Psalm 73:28
Dear Friends,
We trust you are keeping well and that as temperatures rise we can anticipate enjoying more of the outdoors. We are so thankful for God's unending supply of grace and mercy that keeps our outlook full of faith and strong regardless of circumstances. Yes, there are tests, trials and struggles that can become heavy at times, but “the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort” is right there to assist and sustain as we look to Him by faith.
It has been almost four months since Susan’s dad went home to be with the Lord. We graciously experienced the care of our loving Heavenly Father as he guided, directed and supplied for each of us. The promise of our “blessed hope” is poignantly precious once again.
We are also beginning to finally feel settled in our new home and grateful for the close proximity we have to our family in Kingston. Susan’s mom is also settling nicely into her new apartment which is a six minute walk up the street from us.
The federal institutions are still not allowing volunteers access. Chaplains are just now returning with full time hours. Inmates are limited in their movement and have not had opportunity to participate in their programs needed for release. Visits from family members are just beginning this week. Needless to say, there has been added frustration and tension with so many of the restrictions still holding.
Letters and phone calls remain as our only means of staying connected with guys. Through family members on the street we have been able to begin communicating with some new contacts on the inside. Phone calls have barriers as not all guys are allowed to have our office number on their calling list and at only certain times are they allowed access to a phone. Many of our phone conversations are instantly terminated after 20 minutes.
We have been allowed to have a weekly Bible study and fellowship time with men from a halfway house that is within walking distance to our church. There are other adults attending which make it more of a “community feel” rather than just for inmates.
Susan and I have also had the opportunity to contribute to a weekly chapel service aired on a local radio station that allows most of the Kingston area Institutions to receive the signal.
Pray with us that volunteers would soon be allowed to return to the institutions but also pray that “words may be given to us in opening our mouths boldly to proclaim the gospel” to whomever we meet. Our world, not just inmates, is so desperate for truth and light and peace and we know this can only come through a relationship with Jesus Christ. May we be faithful in sharing this good news each day.
Blessings and Love,
Robert and Susan
Our mailing address is:
Prison Minstry, Kingston
PO Box 20051
Kingston, ON K7P 2T6