Singapore (CBI/MNN) — Crossroad
Bible Institute just opened its first Distribution Center in Singapore to great
successes.
Those come despite what seemed
like huge obstacles at the onset. Director
Paul Tan is finally discipling inmates at Changi Prison. In the beginning, though, as he was getting
ready to train local instructors, he came down with the H1N1 flu, which delayed
the program until he had recovered, several weeks later.
Students are already making a
difference: fifteen Buddhist inmates were so impressed with the testimony of
current students that they have converted to Christianity in order to enroll in
the Bible study program. Prison officials
also welcome the addition of CBI.
"I am pleased that we
already have a number of students who want to have a stronger relationship with
God. CBI is here to help prisoners on their religious journey and provide
support so they are equipped to make good choices when they are released back
into society," said CBI President Dr. David Schuringa.
When it comes to relating to the
inmates, Tan relates as both a mentor and as someone who has walked through
the system. Years ago, he suffered from
drug addiction and spent time in Singapore's prison system. He finally found
freedom by choosing to serve God. Tan
says, this time he's going back "not as an inmate but as a servant of
God to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ."
Now in Colombia, Nicaragua,
Canada, Ghana, Australia and New Zealand, as well as in Singapore, CBI distribution centers supply the lessons
and manuals, as well as keeping records of the enrolled students and overseeing
instructor activity. Prisoners can complete CBI lessons for seven to eight
years.
Pray that these believers would
continue to have a clear, strong testimony for Christ to those around them.
Visit www.cbi.fm for enrollment
forms or more information. CBI's programs are provided at no cost to prisoners
and their families.
