MOUNT HOPE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Appalachian Bible College (ABC) is proud to announce the upcoming graduation of five inmates from its Mount Olive Bible College (MOBC) program on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. This event marks another significant achievement in ABC’s longstanding commitment to providing accredited biblical education and moral rehabilitation to incarcerated individuals in West Virginia’s prison system. In addition, ABC reports strong enrollment for the upcoming semester, with 24 prisoners at Mount Olive signed up to continue their studies and 25 women at Lakin Correctional Center enrolled in a newly approved program at that facility.
The graduation ceremony at Mount Olive Correctional Complex, a maximum-security prison in Fayette County, will honor the five students who have completed their Bachelor of Arts degrees in Bible/Theology and Pastoral Ministry. MOBC, an extension campus of ABC established in 2014, has transformed the lives of dozens of inmates by equipping them with biblical knowledge and ministry skills. Since its inception, the program has graduated almost 40 students, many of whom have been transferred to other correctional facilities across West Virginia to serve as spiritual leaders and mentors.
“These graduates exemplify the power of God’s Word to bring hope and change even in the most challenging environments,” said Dr. Daniel Anderson, President of Appalachian Bible College. “Our prison ministry is not just about education—it’s about redemption and preparing individuals to make a positive impact within the prison walls and beyond.”
The MOBC program began at the request of West Virginia’s former Commissioner of Corrections in 2013 and quickly grew, reaching a peak enrollment of 40 full-time students in 2018. It offers a rigorous curriculum focused on Bible studies, theology, and practical ministry, with classes taught by ABC faculty. Prison staff have noted tangible benefits, including a calmer atmosphere and reduced incidents, attributing these changes to the program’s emphasis on moral and spiritual growth. Graduates often assist in chapel services, Bible studies, and even revival meetings, where they have helped lead others to faith.
Looking ahead, the upcoming semester at Mount Olive will welcome 24 new and continuing students, building on the program’s success in fostering personal transformation. Meanwhile, ABC is excited to expand its reach with the new initiative at Lakin Correctional Center and Jail in West Columbia, WV, the state’s only all-female prison. Approved as an additional location by accrediting bodies in June 2025, this program will provide similar accredited courses to 25 enrolled women, marking ABC’s first dedicated effort at Lakin.
“This new program at Lakin represents a fresh opportunity to extend biblical education to women in the correctional system,” added Anderson. “With 25 ladies already signed up, we’re eager to see how this initiative will empower them for spiritual service and personal renewal.”
The Lakin program draws on the proven model from Mount Olive, adapting it to meet the needs of female inmates, many of whom are serving long-term sentences. J.D. Sallaz, Superintendent of Lakin Correctional Center, has expressed support for such efforts, noting that they help inmates emerge as better individuals and contribute to a smoother facility environment.
ABC’s prison ministries are part of a broader partnership with organizations like Catalyst Ministries and are inspired by successful models in other states. These programs emphasize discipleship, with graduates often taking on leadership roles in prison chaplaincies and recovery groups.
For more information about Appalachian Bible College’s prison education programs or to support their efforts, visit abc.edu or contact the college at (304) 877-6428.
