SOCPM Newsletter | July 2024

On the Move at Dixon

The Dixon classes have been moved to Tuesday as of this past week, the 9th. I had a dental appointment on July 2nd, preventing me from making a move on July 2nd, but thus far, on the first two Tuesdays in July, there have been no lockdowns. The number of enrollees for Discipleship was up four to nine. The number of attendees for Malachi Dads was up to two, despite two enrollees choosing to go with New Life Corrections 'Stepping Up.' One was Larry. It was bittersweet. Larry has been a SOCPM student since October 2021. He was one book short of completing the complete Malachi Dads program. But, I trust he sought God's will, which was for him to transfer to 'Stepping Up.'

Al is the instructor for 'Stepping Up. ' Al and I know each other, and we had a couple of opportunities to chat. We both agreed that the after-effects of COVID-19 are the new norm. Class sizes are smaller. One reason I point to is that the Dixon population has gone down considerably. The general population is currently blowing 1,000. It was once around 1,300. But, still, the atmosphere is not as charged as it used to be. A lot more restrictive rules were put in place, which resulted in an over-reduced morale.

Praying Tuesday from here until forever there will not be any lockdowns. 🙏😁

God's Network at Work

Another topic of conversation with Al was an inmate at DeKalb County Jail. Back in June, I was contacted by a lady in Southern Illinois claiming to be a relative of Javion and his family. He is likely to be released, but a key factor is that he has a good resident program to enter upon release. I can't remember, but she contacted someone from Cross of Christ Fellowship, a church plant of Redeemer Fellowship, and a church Redeemer has a very solid relationship. I personally am friends with Tom, the Lead Pastor. The person at Cross of Christ told her about Redeemer Fellowship's Soldier of Christ. She then called me. I told her of Wayside Cross, which she passed on to Javion. I was eventually contacted by his Public Defender. Al is confident Javion was aware of Wayside, but whether he had made an actual connection, he didn't believe so. Al said he met Javion when he went into DeKalb and is a solid believer. Al is trying to arrange to meet with Javion on one to get him admitted to Wayside. Please keep Javion in your prayers that Satan doesn't intervene and have the paperwork and communication fall into the cracks.

I don't know how many pictures I took, roughly 500. A good number are duplicates, but many of those I did take were because I saw the beauty of God's creation or a moment of how blessed I was and am to have experienced the National Park Road trip.

Personal Prayer Requests

Cameron has been sober for, I believe, 49 days as I get set to send this newsletter. Praise God! He's attended church a couple of times, which is better than none, but I keep encouraging him to go, not just for the teaching but to build a church family. The biggest item on his prayer needs after salvation is a job. For whatever reason, God has not blessed Cameron with a job. It is a challenge to teach Cameron trust and faith and that God is sovereign what this prayer goes on answered, but nonetheless less it would be a joyful blessing for Cameron. He is applying for positions outside of the serving tables. He did have one offer as a housekeeper at a hospital last week, but because of his felony, it was withdrawn.

It was a year ago today, June 9th I suffered my heart attack. I am still grateful for my friends and church family, who are still keeping on me regarding my diet and exercise.  I did sacrifice some tempting meals and desserts during my road trip. I can't say I was perfect, but I think I did well. I've been struggling more since I've returned. So, I ask for your prayers I can get into a good routine of walking 150 minutes minimum a week, avoid snacking, red meat, etc, and be more consistent on smoothies. Ideally, one a day.

To Him be the glory in ALL things and Him alone,

Scott Kalas
Soldiers of Christ Prison Ministries

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