BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) - Inmates at the state penitentiary are experiencing a type of transformation they say is only possible with God on their side. It’s all thanks to some patience, a program through Evangel and a promise of what’s to come.

Inside the walls of the North Dakota State Penitentiary, transformation can feel like a long shot. But for a growing number of inmates here, that change is taking shape—one question, one prayer, one conversation at a time.

It all started when Evangel Church in Bismarck began streaming Sunday services.

“We started getting letters from inmates about the impact of our messages, our stories, our services impacting them,” said Evangel Executive Pastor Bryce Meyer.

That led to Alpha, a nine-to-12-week program that introduces the foundations of Christianity. What began with just 16 men has grown to more than 50, and it’s sometimes led by inmates themselves.

“We always talk about growing wide and deep. We’ve seen guys grow deeper in their faith, changing in their character,” said Meyer.

It’s not just talk, it’s change, visible in how men treat each other, how they talk and how they now lead.

The prison chaplain said Alpha gives men a safe place to explore faith, ask hard questions and reflect on their past.

“When our guys come in here, a lot of times they’re exploring. The beautiful part of Alpha is it’s a beginning place for people who are seeking God,” said North Dakota State Penitentiary Chaplain Mark Testroet.

At Easter, more than 100 inmates came to worship. This June, Sunday services will launch inside the prison walls.

“I firmly believe with all my heart that people can change, and it’s great to watch guys change and see their lives radically transformed,” said Testroet.

For some, prison can be a dead end, but for these men, it may also be where life turns around.