Former Inmate Creates Video Testimony Highlighting Heart Transformation, Not Religious Conversion

Jharsuguda, Odisha, August 10, 2025— A moving video testimony created by a former inmate from Bihar has shed light on the transformative impact of compassion and support, while strongly rejecting false conversion allegations.

The video’s creator, Mr. Amen, was incarcerated in Jharsuguda Jail in 2018. At the time, he struggled with severe depression and had contemplated suicide. His life took a new turn when the Prison Ministry, Jharsuguda Unit, began visiting the jail every afternoon, conducting spoken English classes, motivational talks, and computer training. Alongside this, he received regular counselling.

Through these sessions, Mr. Amen experienced a profound change of heart. He learnt to forgive, abandoned harmful habits, and embraced a new way of life. After a year in prison, he was granted bail. Even after his release, he maintained contact with the ministry, which also extended some legal assistance to him.

When news surfaced of the arrest of two sisters at Durg station and the assault on priests and nuns in Odisha over alleged conversions, Mr. Amen was deeply moved. He decided to create a video recounting his prison experience to convey the truth—that his transformation was rooted in compassion, not religious conversion.

At the time of his rehabilitation, the Jharsuguda Unit team included Sr. Lalita SCGR, Fr. Sekhar SVD, and Sr. Prabha SJSM, who played key roles in his journey.

The initiative was led by Sr. Mercyan SU of the Ursuline Congregation (Pune), who has served in Jharsuguda, Odisha, for the past nine years. An advocate and social worker, she has been actively involved with Prison Ministry India (PMI), focusing on the welfare of inmates, migrant workers, and vulnerable communities.

“I got this video from one of the inmates, who is now out and working,” Sr. Mercyan shared. “On hearing about the attack on priests and sisters, he thought of sharing his testimony to highlight that what we do is about transforming hearts, not changing religions.”

The video stands as a testament to the life-changing potential of empathy, education, and moral support—showcasing how rehabilitation efforts can restore hope and dignity, even in the most challenging circumstances.

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