A review of the influential Christian book Experiencing God by Henry Blackaby highlights the enduring impact of its central message: believers should 'watch to see where God is working and join Him’. First published in 2007, it has guided countless Christians, churches, and ministries in discerning God’s will and participating in His work. One remarkable example described in the book comes from Angola Prison in Louisiana. After inmates began studying it, many committed their lives to Christ, leading to the formation of seven inmate-led church congregations within the prison. Reports indicate that violence and drug use significantly declined as lives were transformed. Some prisoners even sensed a call into Christian ministry, and the prison later became a satellite campus for a theological seminary! The book continues to challenge believers to examine their priorities and recognise where God is already at work, encouraging them to join Him in faith and obedience.

This came from a request by chaplains who wanted a prisoner-friendly version of the original trypraying booklet. Written in collaboration with prisoners, it is based around the idea of ‘how to pray’ and uses prisoner testimonies, Bible stories, bold imagery and simple wording to introduce the Christian faith and the good news of Jesus. As well as being an engaging read for prisoners, it’s a useful tool for volunteers and workers, that opens up conversation in a natural way.

This version is geared towards male prisoners with a women’s version currently in production.

Churches are being invited to sponsor a minimum of 20 copies for their local or regional prison. The booklet is £1.00 per copy and can be ordered online at: www.thereishope.co.uk/resources/ or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call the office on 0131 202 6449

‘About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.’ (Acts 16:25) Lives can be changed for good in prison. Praise God for all who work in prisons. Pray for protection for prison officers and their families. Also, pray for all involved in the Prison HOPE initiative to link churches, prison chaplains and organisations involved with prisoners, former prisoners and their families. Consider: how could your church pray for and link with the local prison?

(Written by Bishop James Langstaff, Bishop to Prisons)