About Us
Why We Exist
Restoring Lives Affected by Incarceration
We believe no one is too far gone for grace. Through in-prison discipleship, transitional housing, and community support, Pardoned By Christ exists to restore lives—one person and one family at a time.
“He upholds the cause of the oppressed and gives food to the hungry. The Lord sets prisoners free, the Lord gives sight to the blind, the Lord lifts up those that are bowed down, the Lord loves the righteous.” – Psalm 146:7-8
Our Mission
To restore lives affected by incarceration. To reach out to people affected by incarceration, who will receive the love and provision that is found in Jesus Christ. To restore individuals and their families to our communities through in-prison, transitional, and community programs.
Our Vision
Our vision is to establish in-prison, transitional, and community based Christian programming for justice-involved individuals throughout North Carolina.
A Story of Pardoning
How Pardoned By Christ Began
Meet Michael Shank, the founder of Pardoned By Christ Ministries.
On Mike’s 22nd birthday, he was convicted of trafficking cocaine and sentenced to 9 years in prison. The Lord used this moment in his life to wake him up, leading him on a road to reconciliation and restoration in both his personal and professional life. Having received the overwhelming grace and mercy of Jesus, he has had a personal, life-transforming relationship with Him for over 35 years.
In March of 2001, Mike received an official Pardon of Forgiveness from Governor Jim Hunt of N.C. He has been involved in prison ministry for over 30 years, has spoken and testified in over 20 prisons, detention, and youth development centers, and was ultimately led to start Pardoned By Christ Ministries in 2004 where he has served as the director. During this time, he has practiced as a licensed physical therapist for 32 years, has received opportunities to speak in middle and high schools, serves as an ambassador across various ministries, serves at his church alongside his wife Crystal, and has spent time sharing the love of Christ in Sri Lanka, Malawi, Mozambique, Nicaragua, and Cuba.
Mike longs to magnify and glorify Christ in all things, ministering to those in need of restoration in their lives.
Break Cycles, Build Futures, & Restore Lives
Find hope, healing, and a future worth fighting for with Pardoned by Christ. Through in-prison ministry, transitional housing, and family-focused support, we walk with people through every step of restoration.