Our Founder
Welcome & Thank You For Visiting
Blessed Behind Bars Ministry was created with one mission in mind—to bring hope, guidance, and transformation to individuals and families who are navigating some of life’s most difficult seasons. Whether you are currently incarcerated, on probation or parole, supporting a loved one through the justice system, or simply seeking direction and healing, you are welcome here. This ministry was born through prayer, perseverance, and a deep desire to see lives restored. For many years I have prayed for those who feel forgotten, those who feel stuck in cycles of mistakes, and those who believe their past defines their future. I want you to know that your story is not over. With faith, support, and the right tools, change is possible. Through our online classes, free resources, prayer support, and coaching, we are here to help individuals grow emotionally, spiritually, and personally. Our goal is to equip you with practical life skills while encouraging you to walk in the purpose God has for your life. No matter where you are in the world or what your past may look like, you are welcome in this community. My prayer is that everything you find here will inspire hope, promote healing, and help you move forward with confidence. Thank you for being here. I am honored to serve you.
About Our Founder
Ann Jael is a Christian author, ministry leader, and advocate dedicated to saving lives both spiritually and naturally. She has faithfully followed God’s calling for over 25 years, serving as both a hearer and doer of His Word. Her ministry assignment is specific and urgent: to reach, teach, and help restore individuals who are involved in crime, those at risk of entering criminal lifestyles, and those who are currently incarcerated or under community supervision.
Ann is the President and CEO of Blessed Behind Bars Ministry, a nonprofit faith-based organization founded in 2013 and based in St. Louis, Missouri. The ministry was established to provide spiritual guidance, education, encouragement, and restoration to individuals who are incarcerated, on probation or parole, or seeking transformation through Christ.
With over 30 years of professional experience working with high-risk offenders and incarcerated individuals, Ann has witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of crime, violence, trauma, and poor decision-making. From 2000 to 2021, she held an active Volunteer Institutional Coordinator (VIC) role with the Missouri Department of Corrections, where she contributed significant time and effort ministering to incarcerated populations. She has also completed more than 100 hours of formal training facilitated by the Missouri Department of Corrections.
Ann is a Certified Anger Management Specialist governed by the National Anger Management Association. She has also completed certifications in Professional Life Coaching, Group Life Coaching, and Grief Counseling. She is currently completing her Domestic Violence Certification and will soon offer structured support programs for both victims and individuals seeking behavioral transformation. Through Blessed Behind Bars Ministry, Ann will be offering online anger management classes, domestic violence education classes, and grief support classes. These programs are designed to promote healing, accountability, emotional restoration, and spiritual growth. Ann is also preparing to launch her YouTube program, the Get Off Papers Podcast, which will provide spiritual encouragement, life guidance, and practical instruction for individuals seeking transformation, freedom, and purpose. Viewers are encouraged to subscribe and join the mission of restoration and hope. She is also the author of the books In Jail Without the Bail and Anger Management Logbook and Diary, both of which focus on accountability, emotional awareness, and behavioral transformation.
Ann was honored as the recipient of the 2015 NAACP Humanitarian Award in recognition of her dedication, service, and commitment to helping others.
Her life and ministry reflect her unwavering commitment to obeying God’s call to reach those who are hurting, those who are lost, and those seeking redemption. Through her writing, teaching, and ministry work, Ann continues to serve as a vessel of hope, healing, and truth.
Her mission is clear: to help save lives, restore families, and guide individuals toward spiritual freedom and eternal life through Jesus Christ.
