The Bible tells us in John 3:3 (NIV), "very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again."
While there are many roads to salvation, the path taken by Gerald Ross is testament not only to the glory that can be achieved when we invite God into our lives, but also the transformative effects that Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy has on people in prison throughout Queensland.
Gerald pastors Beenleigh Baptist Church's Restore Group and Ministry, which works with ex-offenders and people in the community who are struggling with addiction.
He helps former prisoners from throughout Brisbane and Logan reintegrate into society and give them a "fresh start in life" by practically demonstrating Christ's love for them.
Gerald's unique ability to engage with former prisoners is based on his experience walking in their shoes - his life was changed as a result of meeting former prison chaplain George Stubbs, from Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy, while serving time in a Queensland correctional centre for drug trafficking.
"The prison chaplains showed the love of Jesus in themselves and that was a turning point for me. I started to look into the Gospel and the Grace of God - and eventually I gave my life to Christ," Gerald explains.
Inspired by his interactions with prison chaplains, Gerald was eager to make a positive difference in his community following his release from prison. He connected with his local church and helped start Restore Ministry, where he has supported ex-prisoners with their reintegration into society for over five years.
"We help by getting them back into the community and turning their life around, while breaking the cycle of drugs and crime and prison," Gerald said.
"There's a lot of guilt and shame associated with going into prison, so we try to create an environment where there's no judgment or stigma, no matter what background a person may have.
"We see the need for spiritual upbringing. God has got a purpose, and God is able to turn that person's life around."
By giving to the 2024 Carinity Chaplains Appeal, your financial assistance will help Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy's dedicated chaplains continue impacting the lives of people in 15 correctional centres across Queensland.
Together, we can help this group of people that often feel abandoned by society experience the Kingdom of God through their rebirth into faith.
Donate at carinity.org.au/carinity-chaplains-appeal-2024/
