4/1/2026 "Prison Ministry and the Power of a New Life"

In this special Holy Week edition of Recovery Through Christ, Pastor John Alworth is joined by Pastor Boyd Harrell, founder of COOL Ministries (Christ Over Our Lives). The episode focuses on the critical mission of prison ministry and the belief that incarcerated individuals possess immense potential to become "powerful warriors in the Kingdom of God" once delivered from the bondage of sin and addiction. The conversation covers several key themes regarding restoration and reentry: The Case for Prison Ministry: Pastor Alworth addresses the stigma surrounding incarcerated individuals, reminding listeners that Jesus himself extended grace to the thief on the cross. He highlights the practical benefits to society, noting that Christ-based intervention can drop recidivism rates from 80% to 40%. Pastor Boyd’s Testimony: Pastor Harrell shares his "buck wild" journey from shooting drugs at age 13 to facing 25 years to life during his fourth trip to prison. He describes a radical encounter with God in a Houston jail cell in 1993, which led to a five-year period of deep scriptural study and nearly three decades of freedom and ministry. The "COOL" Approach to Reentry: With 27 years in ministry, Pastor Harrell explains how his organization serves 20 prison units through church services and his book, Breaking the Chains. The program uses a 12-step framework rooted in biblical discipleship to help men and women navigate the "scarlet letter" of a criminal record and find a supportive "family of God." The Science of Praise: The pastors discuss neuroplasticity, noting that worship and gratitude aren't just spiritual exercises but biological ones that heal the brain, combat depression, and increase empathy. The episode serves as a call to action for volunteers and donors to support reentry efforts, emphasizing that while the world may see a "convict," God sees a "masterpiece" ready for a living resurrection. Key Scriptural References Luke 19:10Jesus came to "seek and save the lost." 2 Corinthians 5:20Believers as "Christ’s ambassadors" on earth. Psalm 107:14God bringing people out of darkness and breaking their chains. James 5:16The healing power of confession and community. Ministry Contact Information COOL Ministries: www.coolministries.net | Phone: 281-687-8366 Recovery Through Christ: Phone/Text: 832-475-8642 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.