Church for Inmates' Kids

Intro:

Some statistics say that nearly two-thirds of children with incarcerated parents will end up in prison themselves. Reed Galin introduces us to a community in Oklahoma that wants to break that cycle.

SCRIPT:

(Locator: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma) 

(Choir sings) “When I call your name….” 

A common thread binds the congregation at Penn Avenue Redemption United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City, says pastor Steve Byrd.    

The Rev. Steve Byrd, Penn Avenue Redemption United Methodist Church: “Some of our folks here have brothers and sisters in prison, a parent or both parents in prison.” 

For 15 years, the church has supported inmates and their families by offering life skills and anger management classes, and 12-step programs.   

Each week, a van picks up more than 150 inmates for three worship services. Perhaps most importantly, the Redemption Kids program provides support. 

(Speaker to kids) “Who says you can’t be a president?” 

Anthony Boyd, Penn Avenue Redemption United Methodist Church: “I’m a kid and I need to know what I’m going through. If I don’t know what I’m going through and I’m confused, then it’s gonna be hard on me in life.” 

Equandre Wofford: “I’m kind of still angry that my parents went to jail.” 

Sixteen-year-old Equandre Wofford helps leads the ministry. 

Equandre Wofford, Penn Avenue Redemption United Methodist Church: “I told my parents, ‘I’m not going to be like y’all, I’m going to be the opposite of y’all. I’m going to grow up to be bigger and better.’” 

(Joy prays with kids)  “We praise and worship you, Lord…” 

Joy Block-Wright spent 18 months in federal prison for forgery. She turned her life around and serves as the director of Redemption Kids.  

Joy Block-Wright, Redemption Kids Director: “I see shame. I see embarrassment. I see guilt. We try to uplift them as much as possible.”   

Dance classes, summer camp and other activities help the kids overcome obstacles.  

Antonia Boyd, Penn Avenue Redemption United Methodist Church: “It’s difficult because you really want to do the wrong thing at that time. But a voice is telling you not to do that.” 

(Joy with kids) “I just want to say ya’ll did a wonderful job today.” 

Most children with incarcerated parents end up in prison themselves. But the Redemption Kids believe their future can be different.  

Joy Block-Wright: “Out of the 20, if we can stop five of them from going, I’m happy.”

TAG:

For more information on Redemption Kids, contact Penn Avenue Redemption United Methodist Church‎ at 405-528-0963.

Posted: September 22, 2010