A Ministry of Many Rewards

Finding himself back in prison for the third time, Washington Okumu was facing a 14 year prison sentence for bank robbery.  With little hope for release following a life of crime, he began taking tailoring classes offered by PF Kenya. Yet his sense of hopelessness did not abate. In spite of invitations to participate in Bible meetings or church services he vehemently refused. “I hated the many preachers,” he recalls. But four years into his sentence he was obliged by  the prison officer to attend a meeting that was mandatory for all inmates.

At the meeting, Pastor David Otieno Owino, Regional Coordinator of PF Kenya, read from Proverbs 18:24: “A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” The words struck a chord with Washington, who says he wanted a saviour who would be such a friend to him. “As the man of God explained the scriptures, I realized I was a sinner,” says Washington, “even after the preacher left, the bell still continued to ring in my heart.” 

Washington attended every meeting after that and soon began teaching his fellow inmates about Christ. Just seven years into his sentence he was miraculously released.  Since then he began a tailoring business which he now
operates with six other ex-prisoners. 

Everyday PF workers like David Owino reach out to thousands of prisoners all over the world who feel hopeless and worthless. David Owino was recently awarded PFI‘s 2005 Adrien Sebagabo Gifota Memorial Award.  This honour recognizes a national PF staff or volunteer leader in Africa who has demonstrated Christ-like character and a powerful passion for serving prisoners. The award was presented during PFI‘s 2005 Council meeting held in Hong Kong. 

“That he has a call for prison ministry upon his life is no doubt,” commented Hon. Justice Emmanuel. O‘Kubasu, Board Chairman of Prison Fellowship Kenya, and Washington Okumu is just one of many who can attest to the impact of his ministry