Victory Christian Center Hosts Major Worship and Baptism Event for Inmates
Over 700 prison inmates and correctional staff recently came together at the John H. Lilley Correctional Center in Boley, Oklahoma, for a dynamic outreach event led by one of Tulsa’s prominent churches. Organized by Pastor Paul Daugherty along with 32 volunteers, the program featured uplifting worship, inspirational preaching, baptismal ceremonies, and the distribution of meals, Bibles, and Christian literature.
During the event, 41 individuals received baptism and more than 400 men publicly declared their faith. The church described the day as an overwhelmingly positive experience, remarking that the presence of Jesus transformed the atmosphere as barriers fell away and genuine connections were formed.
Community Impact and Ministry Details
The dedicated team served a total of 1,000 hot meals, handed out 700 Bibles, and distributed 620 copies of a New Life book along with 710 copies of a booklet meant to inspire and transform lives. In addition, 100 gift bags were provided to prison staff through a local partnership.
Pastor Daugherty explained that the idea for this outreach began only three months ago when he sensed a strong calling to bring God’s love to those behind bars. With encouragement from a trusted community leader who had personal ties to the church, Daugherty set out to plan an event that would actively draw inmates from their cells, aiming to touch as many lives as possible.
On June 23, despite uncertainties regarding attendance, a remarkable turnout of 751 inmates gathered outdoors on a dry field within the facility. Overwhelmed by the sight of so many coming forward, the pastor recalled an emotional moment, comparing the scene to biblical accounts of abundant harvests and workers called to reap it.
Personal Transformations and Lasting Impressions
Pastor Daugherty described witnessing a profound shift among many inmates, noting that those who had once appeared isolated and overcome by despair now moved forward in search of hope and healing. With heartfelt embraces, handshakes, and prayers, Daugherty led an altar call that saw over 400 men raise their hands in response to the message of renewal.
Among the memorable moments was an encounter with a former choir member who had once been touched by the ministry when Daugherty’s father served as pastor. The inmate recalled how he had been reached by the church years ago and how a personal visit from the elder pastor had reassured him of God’s forgiveness and love. Now, standing before him as a minister himself, the experience resonated deeply as a powerful testament to grace and redemption.
The Road Ahead for Prison Ministry
Encouraged by the success of this event, Pastor Daugherty shared plans to expand the prison outreach into the coming fall and winter seasons. He noted that several correctional facilities have already expressed interest in hosting future events, revealing a growing hunger for genuine spiritual connection both inside and outside prison walls.
Reflecting on the broader message, the pastor emphasized that in a world marked by brokenness and superficiality, the transformative love of Jesus continues to offer hope. A renewed focus on ministering to those who feel forgotten is inspiring communities to partner in God’s work, reaffirming the enduring impact of compassionate outreach.
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