FridayApr022021
Rory KramerLast week, Justin Bieber, his pastor Judah Smith and wife Hailey Baldwin visited a California prison to speak with prisoners about their faith and learn more about the institution's faith-based programs.
On Thursday, the "Holy" singer spoke about his meeting and released photos of himself talking with inmates.
Justin met with inmates who train dogs for the Paws for Life K9 Rescue program, who then adopt the trained service animals out to veterans of the military. He also spoke with members of The Urban Ministry Institute, a prison seminary program.
"It was a life-changing experience that I will never forget," he said in a Thursday statement. "It was such an honor listening to their stories and seeing how strong their faith is."
One Community CEO Scott Budnick, who also helms the Anti-Recidivism Coalition, said he reached out to Justin after becoming inspired by his new music and the Justice album.
Budnick said Justin "came in with an open heart" and enjoyed chatting with the inmates. He added, "I received many collect calls from the men inside the prison afterwards expressing the joy the visit brought them after such a tough year."
Justin also announced that he'll give back to the inmates by chartering buses so their family members can visit them at the facility. Several inmates had been unable to physically see their family members because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As part of his Justice album campaign, Justin is also supporting various organizations that "embody what justice and healing looks like in action."
By Megan Stone
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