BP Partners

Executive Archive: 1998

BP Note:

By the time of this writing, I was presenting a primitive form of Basic Progress on seven Prison Units. Again, I am envisioning applications for the world at large, but still wondering if I had the credentials, expertise or public appeal. It was clear that I was on to something, but I wasn't entirely sure of what it would look like. In reflection, it was probably insane to think that I could create a spiritual dynamic whereby seekers might benefit from my experience, academics and the roughshod development of this spiritual renewal thing called BP. I did not realize it at the time, but I was still four years from finishing my graduate studies and eight years from completing post graduate work. If I had known the demands, I am not sure that I would have stayed true to my vision. Like most experiences, I am grateful I went through it; but I would not do it again. By the way, my full name is James Ray Holland Jr., but I have always been referred to as 'Jay'. Now that I have finished my education, 'Dr. Jay' is cute, but I stink at basketball.

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Friends,

Basic Progress ministries is a deliberate effort to restore the fallen, to convert the lost, and to teach personal responsibility to the troubled. Our classes transform the lives of the spiritually 'at risk' sector of society through the grace and love of God. The Basic Progress curriculum is an intense progression of discussion, activities, and exercises that will guide the participant's personal growth to a mature and stable relationship with God. The main criterion for participation is a desire to change -- at least enough to show up for the first session. The first phase, Basic Progress, is involves both lecture and assignments documenting priorities, analyzing existing views of God, a thorough self-examination, a restructuring of relationships, and an overview of World religions. The second phase, practical truth, is an introduction to Christianity. It is during this phase that they accept Christ.

The last phase, foundations is a ninety day guided study that teaches the language of biblical prayer, songs of worship, words from early Christians and daily chapter readings from the gospels. These new Christians meet weekly in a discussion group to encourage and support each other. Please read the preamble to these meetings below. A fourth phase, cornerstone, and a final, yet unnamed fifth phase is currently being developed. Ultimately, the Basic Progress curriculum will be a full year of classes -- a year that will change direction and potential for all involved. In our first two years, 158 people have accepted Christ.

You have been vital to the expansion of this ministry. As you know, this ministry was birthed in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Our goals for this year are to expand the prison ministry to a total of nine units, including the Federal unit in Big Spring. We have been in contact with parole and probation offices, and are currently writing a proposal for the Department of Justice in terms of court ordering this course as a faith-based recovery plan. Also, this information can readily be reformatted for seminars, workshops, church revivals, college campuses, Bible classes, etc. The direct benefit of giving money to Basic Progress ministries is saved lives and new beginnings. Our students have consistently testified to their new relationship with God.

First and foremost, we need you to pray for us. Secondly, I would encourage any one wishing to contribute to this ministry to also consider how they might offer time as a teacher or a facilitator of discussion. Manpower is needed as much as money. If this interests you, please contact me to initiate the screening process. Finally, be assured that we do not take our responsibilities lightly. Your money will be used for publishing, training, travel, and related expenses as we reach out as a deterrent to crime, addiction, family violence, and social dependency. Your donation insures that each person that God puts within our reach will be challenged to become productively content in the community of Christian faith. I thank you for your time and consideration. May God continue to bless you!

In Christ,

James Holland Jr.