Onesimus Workbook

56 • T HE O NESIMUS W ORKSHOP : W ELCOMING F ORMER P RISONERS INTO THE L IFE OF THE C HURCH

poets have said, ‘For we are indeed his offspring’” Acts 17.28 (ESV). “For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.” 2 Tim. 1.12-13 (NKJV). Martin’s Story I am writing to tell you a little about my re-integration into society after 22 years in California State Prison. I was scheduled to go to a home upon release, but a week before my parole I was told I would be going to another place. To tell the truth I was very disappointed at this change which was out of my control. Next, I was told that I would not be picked up by the agency and would have to take the train and bus (it was actually two trains and two buses). Furthermore, when I asked my counselor to call and ask how I would make it to the program from the train station, I was told to just get a taxi or something. I was now devastated and disappointed. This background information is written to explain what I’ve found to be most important about coming back to society after being in prison for so long, and it’s building relationships and networking. I was blessed when I arrived at the train station (8 pm on Sunday night) to have two ex-lifers, who I served with in ministry within prison, pick me up. These men helped me to navigate all of the many different roads I would have to travel in order to get “established” as a returning citizen.

Some things that are necessary and important:

1. You are going to need ID. If you don’t have your birth certificate (have your family) order it. If you had a driver’s license that’s less than 25 years old you may still be in the system.

2. You’re going to need a Social Security Card (you need a California ID or DL for this).

3. Patience! All the programs are different. Whether they grant day passes, let you use their phones, take you to appointments is of little consequence. Eventually, you will be granted access and opportunities to move around, explore, and it will be up to you to make good and wise decisions.

Seek out a group of knowledgeable people to help you! Seek out the lifers groups, ministries, and parole resources set in place to help you.