Despite some initial difficulties with getting everyone into the facility, the MGT Choir had a sweet time of ministry to the inmates and their families at the Sullivan Correctional Facility in Fallsburg, NY. Our choir has been traveling there for twelve years now. This first day of August was “family day,” where inmate’s families can come up for a picnic on the grounds, with music, food and fellowship for all.
A trophy of God’s redemptive grace and our dear friend, David Berkowitz, was unable to attend the outdoor “Festival” because of a condition in his leg that had him in the infirmary, but we saw many brothers in Christ that we have ministered to in our several visits. One of them told us that after we leave, the choir is the talk of the prison for weeks afterwards. Our prayer, of course, is that we can encourage those inside to be free in Christ, follow His leading as laid out for us in the Bible, and that they in turn would lead others to Christ, developing a community of strong believers in the faith in this maximum security facility.
ReFugE rapped their hip hop songs of victory in Christ, and the choir sang several heartfelt numbers. Several people shared testimonies of what the Lord has meant to them, then Pastor Rivera spoke about being thankful FOR everything, including being there at Sullivan County. A tough word to be sure, but since the Lord is sovereign and knows all things, then He also has plans for all of us, even if they include being locked up for a time. Sometimes that time “away” is what the Lord has had to use to get people to turn from their own way to follow Christ, who is the only one that can make us truly free from the bondage of sin, which is much greater than the bondage of concrete and razor wire. Just ask David Berkowitz.