Friend, Pastor Clifford Jones, often states, “There are good dreams, and there are God’s dreams.”
Several years ago, due to a heart-wrenching tragedy, a budding relationship began between a Warden (Commissioner), Burl Cain, and a Senior Judge, Tom Kohl. The statement was made, “May God not let you sleep until Oregon has a Bible college inside the prison system.”
What seemed like a good idea, against incredible odds, captured the heart and spirit of Judge Tom Kohl. Some are wired for “perfect storm” missions, and Tom is such a man. He never shies away from leaning into great opportunities to expand his faith in God. So, he initiated the missionary pathway: prayer, passage, purpose, and people.
He surrounded himself with prayer partners and men of valor like Clifford Jones and many of you. God opened doors and connected Tom with people of peace inside the Department of Corrections and Corban University.
The vision was cast. The good dream revealed God’s dream for the 12,000+ adults in custody in Oregon.
How do we transform the “system?”
The same way Daniel responded to King Nebuchadnezzar: “Daniel answered in the presence of the king, and said, ‘The secret which the king has demanded, the wise men, the astrologers, the magicians, and the soothsayers cannot declare to the king. But there is a God in heaven who reveals secrets, and He has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar…’” (Daniel 2:27-28a, NKJV)
We don’t. He does.
God reveals Himself – His Spirit and your generosity continue to catalyze spiritual and moral rehabilitation. Through your acts of obedience and kindness to the ministry of Paid in Full Oregon, God is activating field ministers who act as Peer Mentors inside the prison system.
He makes all things beautiful in His time – the time is now!
You have made it possible – the class of 2024 – June 28, 2024
Thank you for transforming lives!
Jerel Skeith
Executive Director
503.689.2200