You Are Not Alone
Sacred Heart Parishioner Johnny Ray Shares Story of Faith and Redemption
Around 400 supporters gathered March 14 at the Embassy Suites in Lincoln for the annual Celebration of Hope Gala hosted by Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS). The evening, themed “You Are Not Alone,” focused on the Church’s mission of mercy, accompaniment, and hope for those on the margins. Featured speaker Johnny Ray shared a moving testimony about his encounter with Christ while serving a life sentence in prison after being incarcerated at age 17. In one of his darkest moments, Ray said he heard Christ call him by name and invite him to trust that his life was not over.
During the 33 years that followed, Ray’s faith deepened through prayer and the support of Catholics who reminded him he had not been forgotten. Following changes in the law regarding juvenile sentencing, Ray was released in 2016 and now shares his story as a witness to redemption and second chances. His testimony reflected the mission of the CSS Prison and Reentry Apostolate (PARA), which accompanies incarcerated individuals and those reentering society after prison. A link to Johnny Ray’s full presentation can be found below.
During the 33 years that followed, Ray’s faith deepened through prayer and the support of Catholics who reminded him he had not been forgotten. Following changes in the law regarding juvenile sentencing, Ray was released in 2016 and now shares his story as a witness to redemption and second chances. His testimony reflected the mission of the CSS Prison and Reentry Apostolate (PARA), which accompanies incarcerated individuals and those reentering society after prison. A link to Johnny Ray’s full presentation can be found below.