The UBB Mother’s Day Event

Nothing Like a Mother’s Love

For the first time, the UBB (Universal Beyond Bars) hosted a Mother’s Day event at the O.L. Luther Unit on Saturday, May 27th, 2023. Oh, what a day it was! Many men had the opportunity to share a special moment with their mothers, which they hadn’t done in a long time.

There is nothing like a mother’s love! Some inmates had their mother’s presence, and others had a mother figure there on their behalf.

For you who say, “My mother passed away,” or “She doesn’t care about me anymore.”

There is an irreplaceable mother who cares for you: the church. As a mother embraces, cares, loves, guides, teaches, and corrects her child, the church gives us the same things and more: salvation.

How can you find this spiritual mother? The answer is when you seek Jesus Christ. He leads you to see her, and the best part is this spiritual mother will never pass away.

Love your mother, and value her no matter what you have gone through. The Word of God teaches us,

“Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise.” (Ephesians 6:2)

Honor your Heavenly Father, but also honor your earthly Father and Mother. Keeping your earthly and spiritual mother (the church) with the same care and respect is essential. God is a God of family, and what brings joy is when He sees unity among parents and their children.

The Mother’s Day Special allowed the inmates to honor their mothers by letting them know how they appreciate them. It was a moment to share affection, laugh, and enjoy one another’s company. The UBB Mother’s Day special was cherished by all who attended.

The Objective

The purpose of this day was to give back because, many times, it can feel as though you have become unnoticed. No one cares about you anymore, and all hope has been lost. The UBB strived to go above and beyond for each inmate and their family. Fifty inmates were sponsored to participate and felt unique, considered, and valued. There is no greater joy than for the UBB to know they could freely give as they have received.

Each mother received a certificate and a rose from her son to show their appreciation for their mother in a simple act of kindness. The UBB also had the privilege of having the Warden and Chaplain there. They spoke on behalf of the UBB and how grateful they are to the work of the UBB and the importance of what is being done. Never give up on anyone because everyone deserves another chance. The UBB always pushes to give more to the inmates and their loved ones because they believe in possibilities and providing opportunities.

Many consider the UBB crazy for investing so much in incarcerated people and their families. They see it as a “waste of time.” However, Jesus came for those that have been rejected.

No one goes to the hospital if they’re well, nor do people seek a lawyer if they do not need one. For those that criticize it is because they do not recognize they are also in need of Jesus’ help.

Ex-convict Billy Williams stated that he has never seen any work being done within the prison facilities. It is something to appreciate, and this is an open door for the UBB to do more incredible things within the prisons.

A Special Word From Mr. Billy Williams:

“I used to be an ex-convict myself. But I had to start making different decisions. I know what it feels like to be where you are, not to be able to hug your mother. I understand that. You don’t have to keep making that mistake. Here I am not making that mistake. I’m here with you, and so is the UBB. We value you and care about you, but we need you to care about yourself a little more so you can stop returning to this place.

There’s an opportunity for you to learn that you don’t need to come back here for the same mistakes repeatedly. The One that can help us is GOD. We need God. I’m telling you, it’s not about religion. I was terrible: I used to light people on fire and sell dope, and God changed me. We want God to change you, and we need you to be a part of the UBB,” concluded Mr.Billy.

Pastor Quincy’s Message:

“Imagine that, against all odds, Mr. Billy should not be free right now. But, because he recognized that he needed God, and surrendered while incarcerated. God was able to give him both physical and spiritual freedom.

It’s a hard time coming here to see your son. Out of all the places in the world, a place where it is despised by society. Many have told us we are crazy for doing prison ministry. But little do they know that we are restoring lives. Imagine from this day forward what will happen. You are
comforting one another, and God is also comforting you. God is there to comfort you no matter what you are going through. It does not matter your belief or faith. God is your comfort,” Pr. Quincy said.