ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — Neighbors in Dougherty County are praying for a safe new year for all. Several people gathered outside the jail to pray for inmates, employees and the families who recently celebrated Christmas without a loved one.

For Jamie Mathis, the organizer of the event, this is personal. She said her grandson has been behind bars at the Dougherty County Jail for nearly two years. She said that is why she felt it was important for her to make sure he, and others behind bars, know that there are people who want better for them.

“They are still human beings no matter what they’ve done, and they’re God’s children,” Mathis said. “The Bible talks about the least of us so it was out on my heart for me to do this. To let them know that there are people out here that are praying for them.”

A pastor in attendance read scriptures and songs throughout the meet up.

“With that in mind, we need to always keep this biblical worldview in mind,” the pastor said. “That no matter who we meet, no matter where they are; whether they’re in the jail cell, or outside, people that we know or strangers, they’re all in need of Jesus.”

For the inaugural Prayers for Prisoners, some families made signs with messages to their loved ones behind bars. They waved the signs from the streets for the inmates to read.

Mathis said she wants to get with jail officials and local leaders to see how people on the outside can help officials better serve those on the inside.

“This will turn into something bigger and better, and the county jail will be our main purpose for this year,” Mathis said.

After speaking with some in attendance on Wednesday, Mathis said the prayer session may be held quarterly instead of annually.

WALB will provide updates as Mathis releases information about the future of Prayers for Prisoners.

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