ROD Ministries is a non-profit organization serving the prison population. ROD acts as an aide through the power of the gospel to repair, restore and redirect broken lives in area prisons. ROD walks alongside an offender to encourage him or her to a journey of hope and restoration. Our discipleship program begins during incarceration with extensive hands-on Bible teaching, accountability and direction, which continues after release. ROD is available for inmates who are committed to whatever it takes to change their lives for the better. Our program may be the crucial difference between an inmate returning to old habits upon release and his or her decision to undertake a productive, purposeful life. ROD has partnered with the Adult Rehabilitation Ministry to assist in the aftercare process, but provides many more aftercare services and opportunities. To be considered for the program, an inmate must request acceptance into a ROD Bible study by completing an application to be approved by ROD staff.
Pre Release
ROD begins with a 9-month process consisting of Bible and discipleship classes in state jails, primarily Dawson and Hutchins. After a new client is accepted, the trained volunteer leader teaches orientation, which includes a teaching syllabus and paperback NIV Bible. Each class requires homework and clients are required to consistently attend Bible study classes, complete needs assessments with volunteer leaders and devise a plan of action for their needs.
Inmates are required to complete three Bible study classes, New Beginnings, New Foundation and New Freedom, which introduce and teach the principles of faith and life in Christ. Following successful completion of the classes and requirements, the client participates in graduation and receives a certificate. 90 days prior to release, an exit interview is completed and ROD assesses the clients needs to determine placement in an aftercare program. Both residential and non-residential leads are offered, including possible admission into the ARM program for substance abuse recovery. After release, ROD continues to walk alongside the client in his or her new journey of healthy living.
Aftercare
Following release, ROD provides clients with:
• Residential placement if needed
• Transportation such as bus passes
• Job referrals and resume writing
• Clothing, shoes, toiletries and food
• Routine medical exams and procedures via mobile medical unit
• Weekly Christian support groups for clients and their families,
• A central directory of available resources and referrals to local providers
• Assistance obtaining driver’s licenses, birth certificates and Social Security cards
• Summer camp for children of clients,
• Consultation, encouragement and prayer
• “Bridges of Hope” initiative to maintain contact with and support for clients who choose not to enter a residential program.
Please visit ROD’s website for details information about this ministry. www.rodministries.org
