Along with Rev. Susan Price, the Armstrongs observed the program in KCIW  in Kentucky, where it had been used in all levels of security for twelve years through the ministry of Rev. Spencer Quick and other dedicated Christians, who prayed for a chance to take the Gospel into correctional institutions.  R.E.C is a three-day retreat for incarcerated person within the prison setting.  It is a slightly abbreviated form of the Kairos program that has been so successful in medium and maximum security units for many years.  R.E.C has been used in Kentucky for twenty years and in Texas for ten years in all levels of security, and has been successful in both men’s and women’s prison units in bringing the residents into a closer relationship with Christ.

The goal of R.E.C. is to share the love of Christ in the prison setting, and teach residents tools that will nurture and enhance their spiritual growth, such as regular Bible study, prayer time, witnessing to Christ, and reaching out to others through Christian action.  The hope is that the residents, once they have served their sentences, will connect with a Cursillo or Emmaus reunion group in their area, so there may be follow-up on a continuing basis.  The long-range vision of R.E.C is to develop a group of loving, caring people ready to help the residents continue on their spiritual journey as they begin their new lives as Christians, either on the inside or on the outside.

The Wardens and Chaplains have indicated they were very pleased with the R.E.C. program, and at the Johnston Unit three weekends per year have been requested by the Warden and Chaplain, due to the positive impact of R.E.C. on the residents.  Positive feedback has been received from counselors and officers as well.


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