Did you know that 50% of us have a family member or friend who has some kind of criminal record? It’s the unspoken secret not many of us know how to negotiate–largely because of the shame, confusion, and hurt that goes along with it. 

What happens to the families left behind when someone goes to prison? In this eye-opening conversation, I sit down with Heather Rice-Minus, CEO of Prison Fellowship, to talk about incarceration, shame, second chances, and the transforming power of Jesus. Heather shares powerful stories of hope, restoration, and what it really looks like to walk alongside people impacted by prison. 

We talk about the misconceptions many Christians have about incarceration, how churches can better support hurting families, and why no one is beyond redemption. This conversation challenged me deeply, and I think it will encourage you, too.

And remember, I'd love to connect more on Instagram, where you'll find me at @donnaajones. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode!

Xo,

Donna

Key Takeaways:

0:01:12 - Unexpected Calling to Prison Ministry

0:05:55 - Prison Fellowship’s 50-Year Mission

0:09:00 - Angel Tree: Serving Children of the Incarcerated

0:16:49 - Shattering Shame and “Us vs. Them”

0:22:31 - What Actually Works: Deep Discipleship & The Academy

What We Talk About

• Heather’s unexpected journey from law school to prison ministry
• The incredible origin story of Prison Fellowship and Chuck Colson
• How incarceration impacts entire families, not just the individual behind bars
• The life-changing impact of Angel Tree for children with incarcerated parents
• Shame, silence, and why so many families suffer alone
• Common misconceptions Christians have about prison ministry
• What true rehabilitation and transformation really require
• The importance of discipleship, accountability, and community
• How churches can become places of restoration and welcome
• Practical ways listeners can get involved and make a difference

What Actually Helps People Change

Heather shared several key elements that lead to lasting transformation for incarcerated individuals:

1. Consistent Discipleship
   Real change takes time, accountability, and spiritual growth—not one emotional moment.
2. Healthy Community
   People need relationships that model integrity, restoration, and healthy living.
3. Biblical Worldview Replacement
   Criminal thinking patterns must be replaced with truth, purpose, and identity in Christ.
4. Long-Term Investment
   Transformation happens through sustained support, mentoring, and coaching.
5. Second Chances Rooted in Grace
   The Gospel reminds us that no person is beyond redemption.

Donna’s Resources:

Order a copy of my latest book - 

Healthy Conflict, Peaceful Life: A Biblical Guide to Communicating Thoughts, Feelings, and Opinions with Grace, Truth, and Zero Regret. 

It is available anywhere books are sold– here is the link on Amazon. 

If you need a helpful resource for someone exploring faith and Christianity or simply want to strengthen your own knowledge, you’ll want a copy of my book, Seek: A Woman’s Guide to Meeting God.

It’s a must for seekers, new believers, and those who want to deepen their confidence in their faith.

Connect with Heather:

Website: https://www.prisonfellowship.org/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/PFMinistries

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prisonfellowship/

Let’s Connect:

Instagram: @donnaajones    

Website: www.donnajones.org   

Donna’s speaking schedule: https://donnajones.org/events/