Sharing the love of the Christmas season came through individual gifts to every inmate in South Carolina this year, provided by churches and associations in the South Carolina Baptist Convention (SCBC).
The prisoner packet ministry has been going on for the past 40 years.
Jon Jamison, serve team leader of South Carolina Baptist Convention, said the point of the ministry is to tangibly serve the inmates and provide opportunities for them to hear the Gospel.
The gifts are collected throughout the year and packaged and delivered during the Christmas season.
This year, 19,825 total packages were delivered. The partnership between the SCBC and the individual associations is what makes the ministry possible.
The items in the gift packets are pre-approved by the state’s Department of Corrections and include things like toothpaste and a toothbrush, writing pads, pens, candy, soap and envelopes.
In addition to the practical items, each package includes other elements that are meant to minister to the hearts of the inmates. Each inmate receives a Christmas card and a 30-day devotional.
Jamison said — “I believe Jesus always moved toward the vulnerable and marginalized,”
Inmates who received the gifts said they were grateful for the reminder that they are not forgotten and that they are loved.