Tightrope Testimonies from the Prison Yard
By: Denise Boiko, Staff Writer

Claude Jackman is both fisherman and fisher of men. And although holding a prize lake trout brings a thrill, he's discovered the deeper joy of seeing prisoners come to faith in Christ. 

For 16 years, Claude has
participated in prison ministry through Bill Glass Champions for Life: “We reach hard core inmates who would not come to a religious program but do come to see a program by world-class athletes."  

These high-quality programs involve everything from music to “tightrope testimonies.”  Tino Wallenda, grandson of acrobat Karl Wallenda, delivers his Christian testimony from a tightrope 20 feet in the air.  Other programs have featured wrestling champion Tully Blanchard and football players Bruce Collie, Mike McCoy, and Keith Davis.  After the performers present their talents and testimonies, volunteers like Claude talk to the men about God.

A thousand or more inmates may accept Christ in a single weekend. Claude personally speaks to about twenty of these.  Chaplains follow up each decision to provide opportunities for Bible study and growth.

Calvary member Walt Wilson first encouraged Claude to try prison ministry. “Then it began to come naturally,” he recalls. Last  year, Claude visited twelve prisons, including a memorable trip to San Quentin. “Some men are closed and don't want to talk, but many are wide open and ready to hear about the Lord.”

In their 31 years at Calvary, Claude and his wife Jeannette have seen God's love motivate them to share with others—including prisoners. “He loves these guys,” Claude reflects.  “How can I do less?”

Both men and women volunteers are needed for a program in Fresno starting April 30. To learn more about prison ministry, contact Claude at 408.252.1389 or claudejackman@hotmail.com.

PLAYHOUSE PROMOTES LITERACY TO CHILDREN
IN THE WEST VALLEY

Until March 4, Playhouse Calvary will host a book drive to benefit low-income and high risk families and children in our community. The books collected will be distributed during the month of May 2009 to children participating in the Family Resource Program of West Valley Community Services.

Books need to be new or very gently used, appropriate for children from infants through 5 years old. Drop off donations in one of our collections bins located here at Calvary Church. For more information, email the Playhouse Team at playhouse@calvarylg.com

About Playhouse Calvary >

MEET SUSAN HAMMOND
PRAYER TEAM MINISTRY

How has the prayer affected your life
and your ongoing ministry on the prayer team?

I've seen God answer prayer in my life and personal friends who didn't know the Lord. People I knew who were atheistis believed in God through the power of prayer. It is a priviliege to pray for people and lead this prayer team ministry.

We're always looking for dedicated individuals who would like to join the prayer team. People who would like to serve must be good listeners, keep requests confidential and be able to pray for individuals in need, and even lead others to Christ. If you are interested in volunteering or learning more about the prayer ministry at Calvary Church, contact Susan Hammond at shammond@calvarylg.com.

About Prayer Ministry >