Sheriff welcomes First Baptist Summit for baptisms at Pike County jail
Sheriff Bryant “Wally” Jones welcomed Lead Pastor Larry LeBlanc, the Ladies of the Prison Ministry, members of the leadership team of First Baptist Church Summit and members of the Pike County Sheriff’s Office leadership team for a baptismal ceremony at the Pike County Detention Center, the sheriff’s public relations office said.
Lead Pastor Larry LeBlanc conducted the ceremony as three inmates publicly professed their faith in Jesus Christ through baptism, the statement said. The sheriff’s office described the event as the start of a new chapter of hope, transformation and spiritual renewal for those individuals.
Sheriff Jones extended his appreciation to Major Jewel Hines, detention center administrator, and Warden Herbert Young for their leadership and commitment to providing opportunities that encourage rehabilitation and positive life change, the release said.
The sheriff also thanked Lead Pastor LeBlanc, the Ladies of the Prison Ministry and the congregation of First Baptist Church Summit for their partnership. The statement said the ministry brings “hope to those who need it most” through time, prayers and encouragement.
Sheriff Bryant “Wally” Jones said, “Public safety is about more than securing our community—it is also about creating opportunities for redemption and restoration. We are grateful to First Baptist Church Summit for faithfully sharing the Gospel and showing the love of Jesus Christ inside our detention center. Witnessing these three individuals make a public commitment to Christ through baptism is a reminder that lives can be changed, hope can be restored, and new beginnings are possible. We are proud to support programs that encourage faith, accountability, and transformation.”
Prison ministries commonly provide religious services and support that officials and advocates say can contribute to rehabilitation and reentry. The information was provided by the Pike County Sheriff’s Office Public Relations Department. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
