The Abilene Association of Congregations is kicking off 2025 with a presentation by Missy Denard, founder and director of New Beginnings-Big Country, a transitional housing and life skills program for women coming out of jail or prison.

The meeting will begin with lunch at 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, Jan, 22, followed by a program, which ends at 1 p.m. A $3 donation is requested for lunch. The meeting will be held in Gerhart Hall at the Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest, 602 Meander St. 

New Beginnings is a Christian-based program that teaches women life skills and job skills. Missy started her jail ministry in 2002 with one woman. Today, the program has grown to four houses and one apartment complex. 

Start your new year off right by listening to Missy Denard’s inspirational talk about the lives she has seen transformed through her New Beginnings program.