Project
What People are Saying
Thomas Lane writes in his book “Released” that “God can take your pain and the pieces of a ruined life and turn it into something beautiful.”
That is the story of Mr. Lane’s autobiography. I first met him at the MD Correctional Institution in Jessup where I was teaching a Bible study for Deaf inmates. Thomas was fluent in sign language and attended the class and supported the Deaf men spiritually and as a sign language interpreter. Later after being released from prison he came to the Deaf Church in Baltimore where I was serving as pastor. This book is a “must-read” for people needing hope in the power of God. It shows that faith, adhering to the Word of God, and seeking to serve those in need can create a “heart transformation.” The book also includes an appendix of devotional pictures and scriptures and a call to accepting Christ as Lord and Savior. I highly recommend this book. Excellent. It is such a well-written book. Loved all the pictures and graphics...
Bishop (retired) Peggy A. Johnson
As I read RELEASED authored by Thomas Lane, it gave me pause to reflect on how
far he has come over the years. I first met Thomas in 2004 when I arrived at Jessup
Pre-release Unit as the Facility Administrator. Thomas and I were charter members of the
Nu-Genesis Chapter of Toastmasters at the facility. I had the opportunity to watch Thomas grow in a leadership capacity within the chapter. He was also on work release and making a statement at Maryland Correctional Enterprises (MCE). Together we brought The Anointed Ex-Offenders to Jessup Pre-release Unit to speak to the inmate population.
As I transitioned to the Maryland Correctional Institution for Women as Warden, I once again called upon the talents of Thomas with The Anointed Ex-Offenders and as a Toastmaster. I utilized his superior public speaking talent to provide inspiration to the female population at a re-entry conference hosted by the National Association of
Women Judges.
I have now moved onto Howard County Department of Corrections where once again Thomas and I have been able to collaborate. He tutors offenders here in preparation for GED testing. He has produced an orientation video for the facility. Whenever I am asked to talk about a success story for someone who was incarcerated and who has returned to the community and has made a positive mark in life, Thomas Lane is at the forefront of that list. He is AMAZING!
Margaret M. Chippendale
Director, Howard County Department of Corrections