Freedom in Jesus Initiative

The Freedom in Jesus Initiative is a nonprofit organization based in the United States, dedicated to empowering individuals impacted by incarceration through a faith-based approach. The organization focuses on transforming lives by equipping participants with the necessary tools and support to become healthy, Christ-centered leaders.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the Freedom in Jesus Initiative is to disciple individuals who have been involved in the justice system. It aims to guide them on a journey from imprisonment to empowerment, ultimately leading to active participation in church planting and community leadership. The organization envisions a revival within prisons and surrounding communities, facilitated by church planting movements led by formerly incarcerated individuals.

Programs and Training

The Freedom in Jesus Initiative implements a structured training program designed to foster personal and spiritual development among participants. This program consists of several phases:

• Healing and Discovery Phase: This initial phase occurs inside prison and lasts between 3 to 6 months. It focuses on personal healing and self-discovery.
• Trained and Equipped for Ministry: Spanning 18 to 21 months, this phase continues inside prison, offering participants theological education and practical ministry skills.
• Apprenticeship Phase: Once released, participants engage in a 12 to 14-month apprenticeship, where they apply their training in real-world church settings and assume leadership roles.

These phases culminate in participants becoming church planters, equipped to lead others and foster communities centered on Christ.

Community Impact

The Freedom in Jesus Initiative is committed to building inclusive church communities that welcome individuals from all walks of life. The organization emphasizes the importance of the local church in promoting healing and freedom through the teachings of Jesus Christ. Its church plants are integral to establishing new congregations that reflect these values.

Notable Locations

The organization has established various church plants, including:

• Freedom Initiative Church in Lenexa, Kansas
• Freedom Initiative Safe Haven in Kansas City, Kansas
• Upcoming church plants, such as Ancient Paths in Wichita, Kansas

The Quindaro Freedom Initiative Center is another key location, serving as a residential facility for church planters returning from prison, offering them a supportive community as they transition back into society.

Conclusion

The Freedom in Jesus Initiative represents a significant effort to bridge the gap between incarceration and community leadership through faith-based empowerment. By fostering personal growth and leadership skills among justice-involved individuals, the organization aims to create a ripple effect of positive change within communities across the United States.