The prison seminary program is growing and getting a new home! A ground breaking ceremony was held at the Varner Unit for a 5,000 sq. ft. building with a library, 4 classrooms, and enough space for 100 students. It will also provide much-needed space for GED classes and night courses being taught at the unit. The building is being paid for with private donations. Seminary students earn a bachelor of arts degree in Christian Studies from the College of Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary, based in Memphis. Inmates of all faiths can apply. Graduates can become field ministers, peer mentors, or chaplains’ assistants while still incarcerated. Once released, they can use their degrees to become pastors in the free world. The first class graduated 19 inmates in May. The next class has already started.

Learn more about this program at col418.org/.