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Ex-convict plans his return to prison as a volunteer, Bible in hand
By Mike Duerksen For Mennonite Weekly ReviewWINNIPEG, Man. — It has only been 10 months since Ryan Martens was released from prison, but he’s already planning his return.
Ryan Martens has gone from Edmonton Max, a prison reserved for the most dangerous offenders, to planning for a prison ministry. — Photo by Mike Duerksen
This time he’ll go back as a volunteer, Bible in hand.
“Our prison system needs to be flooded with the message and the love of Jesus Christ,” the 25-year-old said.
“I really want to go back and literally have God’s grace fall down on each and every inmate. It’s amazing what God can do through someone if you let them.”
Just over a year ago, Martens would never have believed he’d speak those words.
Martens grew up Mennonite in the rural town of Steinbach, a close-knit community known for its strong Mennonite presence.
But when his grandmother died in 2003, Martens turned his back on everything he knew.
“It triggered a series of events that set me off in a really wrong direction,” Martens said. “I was rebelling against God, my family and my peers. I started heavy alcohol abuse, heavy drug use.”
Martens was soon kicked out of his house, lost all faith and hope, and contemplated suicide.
As a means of escape, he engaged in illegal activities — stealing cars, committing fraud and impersonating police officers.
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Thank-you for all reading this if you need to contact me please e-mail me at ryanmartens12@gmail.com i am also willing to speak at any church event if needed please call me at 898-8214 (204)
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