A Great Church-State Relationship: Forging Partnerships for Reentry and Restoration





A Great Church-State Relationship: Forging Partnerships for Reentry and Restoration. Matthew 25:36-40 


FORT WORTH, TEXAS - The Ministers Justice Coalition of Texas (MJCT) has been at the forefront of advocating for justice and restoration since its founding in 1999 by Dr. R.L. Rogers. From the beginning, Dr. Rogers envisioned a meaningful partnership with the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles (TBPP) to address the challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals. His vision was rooted in the belief that faith-based organizations and state agencies could work together to support reentry efforts and restore lives.



Upon Dr. Rogers’ passing, Bishop B.E. George carried this mission forward until 2019, when Pastor Kyev P. Tatum was elected President. Pastor Tatum, deeply inspired by Dr. Rogers’ vision, has remained steadfast in his commitment to strengthening this partnership and fulfilling the coalition’s mission of justice and restoration.




Laying the Foundation


The collaboration between MJCT and TBPP has grown over the years into a model of effective church-state relationships. Both entities recognize the immense barriers faced by formerly incarcerated individuals, including securing housing, employment, and mental health resources. By working together, MJCT and TBPP have been able to create initiatives that address these challenges while providing spiritual and emotional support through programs like the Excel Beyond Jail Ministry.




The Excel Beyond Jail Ministry


Central to this partnership is the Excel Beyond Jail Ministry, which embodies the coalition’s mission to help formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society with dignity and purpose. The program offers a comprehensive suite of services, including mentorship, job readiness training, financial literacy, and spiritual guidance. MJCT’s community-driven approach, combined with TBPP’s institutional resources, ensures participants receive both practical assistance and moral support as they rebuild their lives.




Continuing the Vision


Pastor Tatum’s leadership has been instrumental in expanding the coalition’s impact while staying true to Dr. Rogers’ founding vision. He has emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with TBPP to address systemic barriers and create sustainable pathways for reentry. Under his guidance, the partnership has expanded into a statewide initiative that serves as a blueprint for other faith-based organizations seeking to collaborate with government and private agencies.




A Model for Success


This partnership exemplifies how church and state can work together to achieve shared goals while respecting their unique roles. MJCT brings a faith-based perspective that fosters hope and resilience, while TBPP provides structure and resources that enable lasting change. Together, they have demonstrated the power of collaboration in reducing recidivism, restoring families, and building stronger communities.


Dr. R.L. Rogers’ vision lives on through the continued efforts of Pastor Tatum and the Ministers Justice Coalition of Texas. By honoring the past and building for the future, this partnership is transforming lives and reaffirming the value of second chances.


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