Chaplain Ronald Benton, the Madison County Jail, Sheriff Julian Wiser and several Madison County leaders celebrated the graduation of 25 inmates from the 12 step ‘Walking with Jesus’ program on Sept. 6.
The 12 step program is a way for nonviolent offenders to learn how to become an asset to society through becoming spiritually equipped for life after incarceration.
“I don’t expect to see them in here again,” said Chaplain Benton. “They are steadfast and have the ‘hope, love and change’ mindset.”
Chaplain Benton explained that rejection is one of the biggest underlying problems that lands people in jail. When a person feels like they don’t fit, they lash out.
The program works to provide the hope and love of Jesus into the inmates’ lives to battle the feeling of rejection.
The religious program is optional for inmates but not everyone has the opportunity to participate, depending on behavior.
Christopher Ziggler, a graduating inmate, said that the program has helped him to control his anger and work towards being a better father.
“My next step is to be there with my family,” said Zigger. “I have two little boys, seven and ten. I want to lift them up like I have been lifted up.”
In Addition to the ‘Walking with Jesus’ program, three new women’s ministries are being introduced, Judge Don Allen’s ‘Life’s Healing Choices’ program is returning and volunteers are resuming their weekly meetings at the jail.
