Since Crossroads began its correspondence-based Bible studies over forty years ago, students have been eagerly sharing their artistic creations with us. What started as simple sketches on lesson pages and envelopes has blossomed into an incredible outpouring of talent—from detailed portraits to stunning oil paintings. Inspired by our students’ gifts, we’ve been sharing their art with the world since 1999, when we first created our arts journal, now known as Threads.
In 2019, we launched the Crossroads Prison Art Project, amplifying the voices of our students and showcasing the God-given creativity and value of people in prison. Through this project, we’ve been able to share the powerful stories of transformation embedded in each piece of art and poetry featured in Threads. Every work represents a thread woven into the grand tapestry of God’s redemptive work.
Anthony, a Crossroads student
Since 2019, we’ve taken this art on the road, displaying it in churches and art venues across the country. For Anthony, a Crossroads student, Threads is much more than a journal; it’s a bridge that connects those in prison with the outside world, creating a sense of community and belonging. Inspired by the works of fellow students, Anthony shared, “I brought my Threads volume to work this morning to read the poetry because it moves me, and I can relate.” The artwork and poetry from Threads helped him sense the Holy Spirit’s presence, motivating him to deepen his faith through daily devotionals and prayer, even pursuing a college degree.
The impact of Threads reaches far beyond the journal’s pages. For students like Anthony, it brings hope and inspiration. For those outside of prison, it provides a powerful window into the lives of men and women who are often overlooked, revealing their dignity, humanity, and creativity. As one student shared, Threads is “an excellent ‘seed’ tool in prison,” inspiring others to pursue “better things.”
Art has the ability to break through the walls of prison, enabling students to connect with one another and share their stories of God’s grace and truth. It serves as a reminder that even in the darkest places, God’s light continues to shine brightly. The Prison Art Project is transforming lives, reaching thousands of people and inspiring hearts everywhere.
An Update About Threads
As part of our commitment to reach students like Anthony, we’ve made the difficult decision to distribute the fall issue of Threads exclusively in digital format. Rising postage costs and increased restrictions in many facilities have made this necessary in order to continue reaching as many incarcerated individuals as possible. While tablets have expanded access to digital content, we acknowledge that not every student will have access to this format.
Each poem and artwork in Threads represents a unique story, one that highlights the transformative power of faith and creativity behind bars. It’s critical to our mission to remind men and women in prison of their inherent value in God’s family.
Help Us Bring Hope Back to Students Like Anthony
Anthony’s faith blossomed through Threads, and with your support, we can ensure more students continue to receive this vital encouragement. Your generosity helps us navigate rising costs, explore ways to reach more facilities, and continue reminding incarcerated men and women of their worth and purpose in Christ.
Become a monthly donor today and join us in weaving more threads into God’s redemptive story. When you sign up in January, we’ll send you a special gift: a set of stationery cards featuring beautiful artwork created by Crossroads students.
Your partnership provides students like Anthony with the tools they need to grow in faith, share their creativity, and find hope in their darkest moments. Give today and help transform lives!