On August 1, the Prison Fellowship Grow program at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center held its annual graduation in Chapel B.
Prison Fellowship Grow is a one-year Christian-based program that teaches incarcerated individuals and their families personal and spiritual growth techniques.
“I have the honor and privilege to recognize these men who have successfully completed the Prison Fellowship Grow program requirements,” said Pastor Eric Nobles. “I personally admire your perseverance throughout this year’s various setbacks and the challenges of life. You have navigated these with God’s power and guidance and have succeeded.”
Approximately 60 incarcerated graduates in black cap and gown stood to sing with family members and the gospel instrumentalists from San Francisco’s Reality Church Praise Team during the celebration.
Reality Church Senior Pastor and keynote speaker Dave Loma addressed the audience with a passage from the Old Testament, “Not by might, nor by power, but by spirit, my Lord.” He said the spirit is the kind of power that will energize and ground a person simultaneously. “This is the love of Christ,” preached Loma.
According to Pastor Nobles, Prison Fellowship celebrated its 50th anniversary this year and is the nation’s largest Christian non-profit organization serving incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals and their families. It is also a leading advocate for criminal justice reform.
Nobles expressed gratitude to all volunteers and acknowledged the previous graduates who have become facilitators: “This is a family. We are a real family and have endured many challenges together.”
During the ceremony, volunteers and graduates shared how the Prison Fellowship Grow program has impacted their lives.
“It has been powerful to witness the transformative impact of faith within the class and a privilege to accompany the men on their spiritual journey,” said second-year outside volunteer Madi W.
Graduate Justin Starks, 39, expressed appreciation for the fellowship within the group, stating, “I value the safe space to discuss my faith and study scripture with my peers.”
Four-year resident facilitator Joseph Stanford remarked that the program has fostered a strong community based on a spiritual foundation.