Members of the Korean community in the greater Atlanta area joined hands to share the gospel and engage with prison inmates in Smith State Prison in late August.
The Global Mission Alliance hosted an evangelistic event at the prison, and worked together with the Korean Community Presbyterian Church, Korean Central Presbyterian Church of Atlanta, and the Evangelical Coalition of Korean American Ministries to prepare for the event.
A performance by a worship ensemble consisting of inmates, called the 'Smith State Prison Ensemble,' was featured during the event, along with breakfast which was distributed to 300. A Korean cultural performance was also featured.
Plaques of appreciation were given to Chaplain Dr. Bernard Hill, Warden Douglas Williams, and Wayne Dasher, who had helped the GMA operate the ministry in Smith State Prison over the years.
"Life is about relationship, and the most important relationship is the one we have with God," said Rev. Sung Taek Kim, the chairman of the board for the GMA who led the morning portion of the event. "Sin destroyed that relationship. Through his son, God prepared a way to restore that relationship, and whoever believes in Jesus receives salvation."
Lunch consisted of a barbecue with 2,500 pounds of chicken prepared by 25 prison inmates the night prior, as well as vegetables, rice, corn, and fruits. Lunch was provided to 2,200 individuals, including inmates and staff of the prison.
The lunch was particularly welcomed by the inmates as they were not able to receive food for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday that week due to a shortage in the government's budget.
Rev. Sung Taek Kim also preached during the conclusion of the event, saying: "What God expects from us in the midst of life's trials is surrender. The reason we must surrender is because we cannot save ourselves. The life of the one who surrenders to the Lord is one that enjoys true peace, and that person is powerfully used by God as his servant."
Nine people chose to receive Christ during the event.
This article has been translated and edited. For the original in Korean, visit kr.christianitydaily.com.
