Once a notorious gangster and drug baron, South Africa’s public enemy number one, Solomon Staggie was ministered to by Vic Jackopson in Pollsmoor Prison. For the past ten years, Solomon has been diligently studying the scriptures and witnessing his faith to fellow prisoners. Recently he wrote:
My dear beloved in Christ Jesus, I trust that the Holy Spirit will minister to your hearts. My love and gratitude to you, leaders of Hope Now, who, because of love for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, made it possible for me also to have this wonderful opportunity to study.
Now I, once a stranger, also share in the abundance of God’s blessings, having access by faith to His kingdom. Hallelujah, now I am a part of the household of the saints. My dearly beloved, don’t you ever think that I don’t think about you. I am sure that I am one of your children in a far of country.
I was for a few months at Pollsmoor Prison, Cape Town, a place that was convenient in many ways because I was blessed with regular visits from my wife and children. They could use public transport and people like Pastor Clayton and many other Spiritual workers make regular visits to Pollsmoor, so they could visit whenever there was a need.
I was shocked by a sudden transfer to this place (Porterville, 120 miles north of Cape Town). I at first wanted to rebel. But then I realized that God’s Word says we need to give thanks in all circumstances – everything will work out for the better – for us, who love Him and do His will.
When I came here, I was also faced with something I almost forgot about: “The Gangs!” They came to me and said: “Tomorrow we would like to talk to you.” That night I prayed. The next morning in the yard they came to me saying: “ We know that you are a “26” but we also know that you live “Christ Jesus”. All we want to tell you – if you need anything, you must come to us. Then they left me to report to their fellow – members (not that I would ever ask them for a help).
I live according to God’s Word. (Isaiah 60: 1-2). Wherever I go, Jesus Christ shines in me, bringing light into this dark world. (Proverbs. 16:7)
So, my dear beloved, you are much loved. Please, pray for my family, so that God may unite me with them in His time. Also, more important, that I may receive “daily” Christ Jesus and the willingness to freely share Him. Maybe someone has got books on “Pastoral ministry”, “Christian counseling” and other books that would be of help, commentaries, especially the book of “Acts”. Should I receive such books, it will form part of my personal library to assist others here with me. It will be of great help. Remember, I am just one of your children and I am truly blessed to share in your life what God Almighty has blessed you with. Once more, lots of love to you, family, and all believers.
