Teaching the Scriptures on the Inside
Bible Study at Craggy Correctional Center
Mark Embler
First Baptist Church Asheville (FBCA) was called to lead weekly Discipleship Bible Studies at Craggy Minimum Facility. Without hesitation, we answered God’s call to ministry with those in prison.
FBCA’s voluntary team of facilitators held the first eight-week study in April of 2018. The class was small and was made up of men that had none or little knowledge of the Bible. To those that have spent long seasons incarcerated, the time offers an opportunity to involve themselves in a deep study of the scripture. God’s Spirit has been with us from the very beginning and still leads us as we continue to pray, read, and study God’s Word together.
Our growing core group of men has completed three studies and moved on to a fourth. They have formed weekly study, prayer, and share groups outside of our regular time together. These small groups serve as encouragement to one another along the way. In turn, the men boldly share what they are experiencing with others in the compound.
Recently, we have had to say our farewells to some of the men that have been released from custody or have been transferred out of the facility. Their time with us gave them faith, confidence, and direction to face the unknown future, by knowing that God has a deep love for them.
We welcome your compassion and prayers as an important part of the ministry at Craggy Correctional.
Are you interested in volunteering to minister with those in prison? If you have questions, contact Charlyne Boyette at 828.450.2919.