We just finished performing for/ministering to the men at this maximum-security, mental health facility. To say that the mood in there is oppressed and sad is putting it lightly. The chaplain told us no one ever comes to see these guys. Not until us, chaplain! We can't WAIT to go back!
We had about 130 men attendance at this show. We were honored to join our friends The Plunders, founders of Life on the Verge Ministry! It's so exciting to go rolling in to a prison with a huge production and a bunch of like-minded musicianaries!
This was our third time performing at Calhoun, and many of the men had seen us the previous two times (unfortunately). It means the world to them that we think they are worth coming back to! It means the world to us that YOU are helping us do it!
Our mood is usually somber, tentative, but hopeful as we approach the prisons. If you compare our tones of voice before the show and after the show, you usually can detect a huge sense of relief!
We had quite a frustrating afternoon today! After we got set up for the show, we found out that there had been a problem with the head count in the facility, and no one was allowed to move about. The men finally arrived, a good bit late, but thankfully we were allowed to go later than initially planned. We loaded out in the pouring rain, with one of our cases falling and opening onto the wet ground. BUT we are so glad we did it, and so grateful that our supporters are helping us do it!
We wonder if it will just always be scary arriving at Apalachee C.I.? The first time we came here, in 2022, we were actually stopped by armed guards as we tried to figure out where exactly we were supposed to be. They were NOT amused, to say the least! It's always worth it, though, when we finally make it inside!
About 75 guys came to today's show. This facility is always daunting at first, but ALWAYS worth it! The guys are very appreciative and pay such close attention to our songs and to the Message we deliver! Praise God, we honestly feel like we're getting through! Our main hope is that we can change some hearts and improve some family situations!
"Even the crepe myrtles look scary!" lol. This facility reminds of Shawshank Redemption for some reason. Scary approach, but appreciative audience!
This was our first show of the Spring 2024 Prison Tour, and our first time ever at Franklin Correctional Institution. We were welcomed by appreciative inmates as well as appreciative staff! we can't wait to go back and see these guys again!
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