Baltimore City’s nonprofit the Philemon Ministry gives men a second chance at life. It provides a Christian-based mentoring community that supports men upon release from incarceration into stable living. Anthony’s journey with Philemon Ministry started in September of 2019 before he was released and began to experience reentry. His plans to move in with his sister fell through, when she unexpectedly passed away. Upon hearing of an opportunity about a transitional house, he made plans to go apply. This transitional house was Philemon Ministry. 

First, Anthony was drawn to Philemon Ministry because not only was it a halfway house, but it was a halfway house with a religious setting. “At first I didn’t know what to expect as I was incarcerated for 44 years. They helped give me focus and a security blanket.” Anthony believes that Philemon’s four pillars gave him a foundation on which he could rebuild his life. While Anthony credits his success to all four pillars, the pillar of accountability remains central in his life. Of the pillar of accountability, he says, “It helps me remain focused, and set goals. In order to achieve goals, you need to hold yourself accountable.” 

Despite having moved out of the group home to live in independent housing and securing steady employment, Anthony remains actively involved in the ministry. He says, “They helped me a lot when I first came out, and I believe that if they helped me, I owe them.” When reflecting on why others should support the Philemon Ministry, Anthony, a man of few words, put it simply, “The Philemon Ministry is a group that wants people to help themselves.” 

Anthony is one of many men Pastor Antoine Payne and the Philemon Ministry have helped come home for good. To help support men like him and aid the ministry provide resources to break the recidivism cycle in Baltimore City and beyond, please consider donating your time and/or monetarily here.