2025_Q4 Newsletter
Where is rock bottom?
When we hear that phrase, we usually think of despair, addiction, loss, and brokenness. But this quarter we are witnessing something holy unfolding in Fresno County Jail, North Jail, 4th floor, Pod F. What should be a place of darkness has become a living picture of the Body of Christ. Over half of the 70 inmates in this pod now gather daily for prayer, Bible study, fellowship, praise reports, and sacrificial giving through what they call the “Brothers Collection.” They share soup, coffee, envelopes, even phone calls with those who have nothing. Peace is felt. Sobriety is the norm. Even the Sheriff’s department is noticing the presence of Jesus in this place.
Rock bottom is no longer a destination of shame. It has become a journey through death to life. A path from self-pity to self-denial. A place where Christ becomes our only association and our only foundation.
This season also marked the largest Toy & Jacket Drive in Rock Bottom Christian Ministries history. Nearly 500 toys and dozens of jackets were collected and delivered to 58 Central Valley families, blessing 178 children, a 36 percent increase from last year. We prayed, cried, and rejoiced together in the hope of Christ. The Fresno County Jail Chaplain has now asked us to consider organizing a Toy Drive for the entire jail next year. Please be in prayer as we seek the Lord’s will in this opportunity
Thanksgiving was a season of unity and restoration. For the first time, we provided 44 turkeys to families with an incarcerated loved one. Inmates were able to send personal notes with each turkey. Some families shared that this simple act restored broken relationships and ushered in forgiveness. We also gathered for our 3rd annual Thanksgiving Dinner at Denny’s, with 57 in attendance, our largest gathering yet, celebrating what God has done and what He is doing.
This quarter we also highlight Alex, a board member who found himself back in jail after making a poor choice. Instead of giving up, Alex picked himself up and is now running discipleship groups inside the jail. With nothing but a golf pencil, he organizes Bible studies, prayer circles, and even helps lead outreach campaigns. Often people show up to our street Bible studies saying, “Alex told me to come.” God truly uses the willing.
In Christ, rock bottom transforms. Selfish disappointments become sacrificial love. Trials become confident rejoicing and hope. Jesus becomes our association. The Lord is our Rock Bottom.
From rock bottom to Rock Bottom, let us continue this journey together through self-pity to self-denial, trusting that God is faithful and that the glory is Christ’s.