Home For Christmas
Hector and Matthew Meet Again at Calvary Commission
Covid did not stop Calvary Commission. Even when churches, schools, jails, and prisons were closed, our vision continued. We kept on communicating. We encouraged chaplains. We sent in books and letters. Sometimes an inmate was able to get a call to us. Some were released early. Inmates were being moved around regularly.
Matthew, age 29, had been truly changed from a gang member to an on-fire Christian whose mouth could not be shut. He heard about Calvary (as it is known in prison) from another inmate. Hector, age 32, heard Matthew loudly talking about Jesus and about us. Matthew said, “You need to go there. That’s where I am going. Here is the brochure” He replied, “I’ve heard not many are accepted.” With the insistent persuasion of his newly found friend, he applied and was accepted. They were both transported to another unit.
Hector was released first and was excited when he heard Matthew was on his way. “Can I go to the bus station when he arrives?” We eagerly said, “yes”. The bus arrived and Hector rushed to the door. We saw hugs and heard a shout, “That’s my brother there!” Then it was eating huge hamburgers together and a great Calvary Commission reception. We usually have a leader that gives a tour of our 180-acre campus and orientation. That was not needed because Hector did a great job. It was time to jump right into the Fall Sessions of the Calvary Bible Institute. It was then a great Thanksgiving and it will be a best Christmas yet. Our students will be able to participate in “Hope At Christmas” giving gifts to the children of prison inmates. A team will head to the Mexico Christmas Outreach in Reynosa, Mexico. They will minister to the Josiah and Bethany Children’s home, the church, and neighborhood and assist the over 2,000 migrants camp there.
Hector: Two and half years ago, I was on the streets in gangs living sinful life and ended up in prison. In my desperation, I cried out to God for mercy. He forgave me and I made my decision: I want to live for God! He began to change me from my old ways. I met other true believers and began to be a part of the prison church. Hearing about the opportunity to go to Calvary Commission, I got the address and ask for information. When I read about it, I knew this should be my next step. I applied and waited. What a great day it was when I got the acceptance letter! Then came the miracle of my release. Can you imagine that I was in prison one day and a Bible College student the next? It was a special blessing to arrive in time for the annual conference. The testimonies and the powerful messages challenged me to continue. At the next conference I plan to graduate with a Diploma In Biblical Studies. This Christmas will be different. I will be with Matthew and other Christian brothers who are seeking the Lord.
Matthew: Three years ago, I was a broken man sitting in a prison cell crying out to God, “Jesus! If you are real, show me”. The next thing I knew, I was on the chain heading to the Ellis Unit. I put the gang life behind me and give my life to Jesus Christ. I got with a good group of brothers and began to be discipled. As I was being transferred to another unit, I met Hector. I began to pour God’s love into him and teach him what I had been taught. We both ended up at the same unit. Last Christmas Day, we initiated a prayer circle. The entire dorm joined us. When I got off the bus, Hector welcomed me with Godly joy, and it really blew my mind. I heard, “Welcome Home!” This Christmas is going to be amazing, spending it with Hector with whom I did time. And with the new family God has given me.
This progress is the result of the support and prayers of the gracious partners of this ministry.
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Student Academic Center – From Groundbreaking To Today!
On this same road in 1977, you would have seen barbwire fences and pastureland. Today, passing through the entrance you will see the road is lined with crepe myrtle trees and to your right will be the new Student Academic Center.
The Student Academic Center Today. The center will contain classrooms, library, computer lab and media center.
Inside of the Student Academic Center. Staff and students in morning chapel and prayer.
We are planning for 100 or more students. We are overcrowded now with classes in our chapel area, conference room, and offices. We are so thankful for all who have partnered with us these almost 45 years. We have no debts and have built this new center with funds given by our supporters. Will you pray about helping us with the completion as we continue to train and disciple workers for the harvest?
In His Service,
Joe & Charlotte Fauss
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