The Kairos of Virginia team was able to find the blessing on January 11 as the Kairos team held an awards ceremony within the state capital in Richmond to honor:

Ralph Northam, Governor, Commonwealth of Virginia

Brian J. Moran, Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security

Harold Clarke, Director, Department of Corrections

David Robinson, Chief of Corrections, Department of Corrections

The ceremony created an atmosphere of energy, joy, and thanksgiving as Kairos of Virginia found the blessing in the spectacular work these individuals had performed during this unprecedented pandemic. These men and their staff worked relentlessly to partner with our mission and vision without compromise. They stood firmly on the principle that even those who have made a mistake have human value and deserve to be treated humanely and with dignity.

The work of these men and their staffs, along with their accomplishments are often under the radar and unnoticed. Kairos believes these efforts should not go unnoticed but should be celebrated.

The event at the state capital was full of jokes, laughs, and warm friendships. It was attended by Kairos Graduates who are living testimonies of the value and impact of the Kairos Programs, both inside state institutions and the loving and productive Graduates in their communities.

A Kairos Graduate shed tears of joy after he was given the opportunity to shake the hand of the governor who had pardoned him. “If it wasn’t for this governor, I would still be serving.” God answers prayers!

The event reminds us that God’s people can find His blessing and celebrate even during the storm of this pandemic.