August 1, 2020

Dear Colleagues: 

The current COVID-19 crisis has revealed many inequalities in our society. Among them are inequalities in our criminal justice system. Prison reform and advocacy for change is greatly needed. In addition, education for our congregations concerning these issues is vital so that we can respond faithfully and appropriately.

For 20 years Disciple Bible Outreach Ministries (DBOM) has been on the frontlines of prison ministry offering sound biblical teaching and Christian hope to inmates and linking local churches with prison facilities. Now, in light of the tremendous needs facing our prison population, DBOM is revisioning to expand her reach and meet new needs. DBOM will continue to offer volunteer-based ministry in our prisons but will also be more engaged in advocacy, education and prison reform.

DBOM depends on the support of our churches. I want to encourage you to enthusiastically support the Disciple Bible Outreach Ministries (DBOM) offering on August 23 or any date of your choice this summer or fall. Promotional materials are available here. Your church may provide an offering one Sunday or a gift from your mission budget to support this important work. Contact Rev. Mark Hicks at 336-689-1443, mhicksdbom@gmail.com, or visit www.disciplebibleoutreach.org if you have any questions or need additional information.

A recipient of DBOM's ministry recently said: "While cement walls, razor wire, and locked gates remind us daily of our past mistakes, your ministry reminds us that the chains of failure need not bind us from the redemption of Jesus Christ."

Thank you for supporting DBOM Sunday. Together we will work to make disciples for Jesus Christ.

Faithfully yours,

Paul L. Leeland
Resident Bishop, Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church

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Learn more about DBOM here.