What a blessed time our volunteers had at the Hughes unit today as we hosted our Day with Dad for 19 men and their families! It was such a cold day, but the warmth of God’s love filled the chapel and allowed these men and their children to have some cherished hours together that they will always remember. This day held lots of fun things for them to do together, such as, games, competitions, crafts, pie making, a hot dog lunch, and a dance party at the end! Watching these families run into each other’s arms and seeing them having such a great time spending the day together is so incredibly heartwarming. It makes every effort this event takes so worth it! The fun tailgating theme saw lots of people wearing their favorite team jerseys, and the family photos turned out great with the festive backdrop and cute props the chapel crew made.
Tears filled our eyes today as we saw them parting at the end of the day. So many emotions and that longing for just “one more hug” as they reluctantly said their goodbyes, touched us all.
Afterwards, as the men circled up for a time of reflection on what the day meant to them, we enjoyed their heartfelt comments about their families and how privileged they felt to be a part of this special day. Some of them told of how this was their first time to experience a Day with Dad, and how much it meant to them to just be able to see their kids having fun and seeing a relaxed fun side of them that they rarely get to see. Several of them remarked how they were able to finally get to spend time with their children that were very young when they were incarcerated, and now they are getting to rebuild those relationships because of days like today. It really blessed us as one man shared how his mom said, “I really feel the presence of God here. I feel His peace in here. They’re bringing the love of God in here to y’all.” Her words literally sum up why we do what we do! Bringing God’s love and seeing Him bless and restore relationships between these men and their families.
We had 20 volunteers come in with us today, and they all served well. We want to say a special thank you to Jacob Munoz who stepped up to the plate and led our event today. What an amazing thing to see how God has blessed him and brought him out of Hughes, and now has him going back in with us to serve as a volunteer! Him being there had such an impact on these men, because it gives them hope that there is a beautiful life awaiting them outside of prison walls and an amazing God who has wonderful plans for them!
Thank you all for covering this very special event in prayer. It makes all the difference!
