A Day of Transformation

-By Volunteer Jake Manes

Over the past six months, I’ve had the honor of serving alongside Pastor David Hill through True Freedom Ministries at Stark Regional Community Correction Center (SRCCC) in Canton, Ohio. Together, we’ve been helping lead Celebrate Recovery and Character Development classes, watching God move powerfully in the lives of men and women behind bars.

Recently, after graduating from both programs myself, we decided to hold a special Yard Day event to reach even more inmates—especially those who haven’t yet been part of our groups. With a team of 9 volunteers, we entered SRCCC with humble resources but big faith. Because of the number of inmates interested, we held three separate services (two for men and one for women). Each service included live music from a powerful Christian artist, testimonies of real-life transformation, and a message of God’s love, promises, and freedom. By the end of the day, 112 inmates were baptized (90 men and 22 women), publicly declaring new life in Christ!

One of the prison employees told us, “You came in with very little and made it one of the most powerful days this place has seen.”

Here’s what inmates are saying:

“My destiny was set for death because of my vengeful ways. I’m so open and aware of being loved now. Something changed.” -Dustin Hagi

“The baptism was a great thing for me. I do feel reborn. Unlike before, I have slept every night since then.” -James Yacobucci

“The baptism changed my life. For 27 months of incarceration, I’ve been unable to forgive myself. Thank you, Pastor Dave and Chaplain Jake, for showing me the light and extending that bridge for me.” -William Parks

It was more than just an event—it was a move of God. Thank you for your prayers and support. Please continue to lift up these new believers as we disciple them weekly and trust God for even greater things ahead.

Thank you for your partnership with us. True Freedom Ministries is having a huge impact in the lives of so many inmates. Would you prayerfully consider making a monthly or one-time gift to support this amazing work that was commissioned by Jesus Himself (Mathew 25:36)?

www.truefreedomministries.com/donate