I first became aware of the need for mentors for ex-offenders in October 2002.

Andy was giving a class to several people interested in becoming a mentor, but I was unable to attend. So I met with Andy personally to discuss what it means to be a mentor. Webster defines a mentor as, a trusted counselor or guide, tutor or coach. When I asked Andy what being a mentor is all about, he gave me this definition; mentoring is a relational learning process in which a mentor helps a mentoree reach his or her God-given potential. A scripture passage that goes along with this definition is Matthew 28:19-20:

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the Age.”

After meeting with Andy I felt the Holy Spirit nudging me to become a mentor, not only because of the opportunity to minister to ex-offenders, but because as a Christian I believe I need to be available to be a friend and an encouragement to those in need.
Monday January 6, 2003 is when I first met Harry. I immediately liked Harry because he is so easy to talk to. He carries the conversation, and as my wife can tell you, that is okay with me. Harry and I decided that the best way to get to know each other was to meet once or twice a week and talk.

Along with this talking we usually had a time of Bible reading and prayer. It didn't take long for Harry and I to become good friends. I told him that he could call me or stop by the house anytime he wanted to, and that I was always available to talk. I believe being available is key to the mentor/mentoree relationship.

As we got to know each other I felt we should spend more time on spiritual matters. So we decided to do a book study that included learning more about what the Bible has to teach us as Christians. This was more than a way for me to teach Harry; I learned as much during this time together as Harry did. Our time together was one of laughter and of sadness; this is life.

As our friendship grew we began to share more with each other and to trust each other. We have done many activities together such as planting bushes and trees at the Discipleship Home, helping with a fish fry, going out for breakfast and coffee on Saturdays, and sometimes just running errands together.

My wife Carolyn and I have also had Harry and other men from the Discipleship Home over to our house for a meal. Last summer we had a great time on our deck listening to several men play their guitars and sing. Harry tells me he can teach me to play guitar, but I'm not so sure about that.

When I can make it, a highlight in my week is to stop by the Discipleship Home on Saturday mornings for breakfast (usually cooked by chef Andy and very good!). This is also a time for me to meet with other men who live at the Discipleship Home, or others involved in the ministry. After eating there is always a time of Bible Reading and fellowship. It is very touching to hear these men talk about how God is working in their lives. Through this time I have developed multiple friendships that I value. At these gatherings, Harry and I usually spend some time together catching up on what happened during the week.

In a report written by Dr. Bryon Johnson of the University of Pennsylvania, who does research on faith-based programs, he states that mentors are 'absolutely critical' in helping prevent an ex-offender from re-offending. He goes on to say that the support and accountability provided by mentors make the difference between a successful return to society and re-offending.

There are times when I feel like I'm not doing enough as a mentor, but when I get a note from Harry thanking me for my friendship, I realize the impact my friendship is having on someone else's life.

If you have an interest in mentoring I'd be glad to share more of my experience with you. I have found it very rewarding and have grown in my spiritual walk with the Lord as I pray for the work of Rochester Network for ReEntry.