REPURPOSING LIVES

BY JANELLE BRANDON >> 5 FOOT 20 DESIGN LOUNGE

Over 775 guests participated in the Jail Chaplains Dessert Social on October 22 at the Fargo Civic Center. Income from the fundraiser totaled more than enough to trigger the $30,000 match provided by friends of the ministry.

“More than 110 individuals and businesses partnered as sponsors and donors to the live and silent auction, or by providing marketing support, all contributing to the success of the event,” said Gerri Leach, Jail Chaplains Executive Director.

A group of returning citizens who passed through the Cass County Jail showed their gratitude toward the power of the Lord they learned about through Jail Chaplains programs. Each citizen proudly walked across the stage carrying simple cardboard signs describing themselves when they entered jail versus now.

“This program should be modeled across the country,” said Paul Laney, Cass County Sheriff during a heartfelt expression of appreciation of the Jail Chaplains’ role in his line of work. “This work is God-given and God-driven. We are going to give the men and women passing through our facility every opportunity to leave here healthier than they arrived.” coffee, centerpieces made out of repurposed jail clothing, praise music provided by Destiny, and special words by former governor and first lady of North Dakota Ed and Nancy Shafer.

Jack Murphy, a famous one-time jewel thief, shared his powerful story of a repurposed life as he was originally sentenced to two life terms in prison yet learned a different way out of his despair and hopelessness by finding and serving God in his every action.

The scene was set with fabulous desserts, Dunn Bros.

Generous sponsorship of the event was provided by Petro Serve USA, Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Bell State Bank & Trust, Quality Auto Body, Premier Benefits Group, FM Convention & Visitors Bureau, Crist Construction, along with many others.

The Jail Chaplains program began 34 years ago by now retired Pastor Curt Frankhauser. The Jail Chaplains exist to provide quality, caring ministry to inmates and their families. Learn how you can support them at jailchaplains.com. [AWM]

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