In the early 1990s, Pastor Morris Curry began teaching “Biblical Counseling Foundation” (BCF) as a volunteer. Recommended by then Protestant Chaplain Earl Smith, who saw a group of Lifers eager to learn.
With an interest in Prison Ministry inspired from his congregation, Pastor Curry began teaching the program to Lifers who passed on their understanding to short-term prisoners being released. These first students went on to eventually teach the program themselves.
Pastor Curry’s interest in prisoners continued to grow over the years. He continued teaching BCF along with bringing his church congregation into into San Quentin. In March of 2006, he was at the prison to renew his volunteer status when he discovered that Chaplain Earl Smith had retired. His friend and fellow BCF teacher, Dave Haggy, pressed him to apply for the position. In September, 2006, Pastor Curry was the new chaplain.
He brings to San Quentin 22 years of service, and he set about to make the incarcerated church no different than the outside congregation. “Everything is done decently and in order,” he said. Moving forward, he is developing ties with churches who are interested in meeting the needs of those about to parole. A major project is the “Meet Me at The Gate” program.
He sees himself as pastor for all of San Quentin, he has a vision of the many Lifers leaving prison and going on to be of service in their communities. Pastor Curry ran for mayor of a city in Napa County, but lost to the incumbent.
