From Sportscaster to Prison Ministry, Rudy Kalis Shares His Story of Finding Purpose in ‘Second Edition’ Film
I Am Second Releases New Prison Ministry Resources
PLANO, Texas, Jan. 19, 2023 — In the latest short film released by global storytelling organization I Am Second, Emmy award-winning sportscaster, Rudy Kalis, shares how his heart was humbled and his faith was strengthened through the work of prison ministry.
Kalis, who spent decades as one of the nation’s premier sports newscasters, retired in 2017. Leaving a career that often elevated his ego, he was humbled upon discovering a new passion in the service of sharing his faith with imprisoned men in need of hope.
“We featured Rudy Kalis’ inspiring life story in a White Chair Film a few years ago,” said John Humphrey, Vice President of I Am Second. “When we learned of his dedication to sharing the Gospel within the prison system, we felt compelled to produce an exclusive ‘Second Edition’ film to spread awareness of the open hearts that exist within prison walls. Kalis is willing to share the love of Christ to make a difference in places that are tough, messy and unglamorous. It’s a story that should be told.”
Upon accepting an invitation to visit the Riverbend Maximum Security Prison in Nashville, Kalis knew right away this was how he should invest the second chapter of his life.
“The minute I walked in, I said, ‘This is my world,’” recalls Kalis.
Conversations with inmates that began about sports turned to discussions about life. As the men challenged him with questions, it helped him hone the craft of communicating his faith.
“I learned quickly that consistency would be key. These guys are sponges because they’ve lost everything. As I visited often to facilitate bible studies, I didn’t want to just deliver ‘religious talk,’ but instead, to talk about real things like anger, forgiving yourself...things that lead to deeper conversations.”
Kalis volunteers for Men of Valor, a Nashville-based prison ministry committed to winning incarcerated men to Christ and discipling them. Over the years, Kalis has developed friendships with men in gang units and with those on death row. It’s here that Kalis finds common ground with men who are seemingly nothing like him. The connection and sense of purpose keep Kalis coming back.
“I would’ve never thought I’d go into prison ministry. I didn’t give it any thought, but it’s perfect. Hebrews 13 says, ‘Remember the prisoners as though you are chained with them.’ And that’s what my whole life is. I’ve concluded I’ll go to the prison, my health willing and God willing, until the day I die. I don’t know how much longer I’ve got, but I want to finish like a man of God.”
To watch the exclusive I Am Second film, visit iamsecond.com/film/rudy-kalis-second-edition.
Give Freedom Behind Bars
Incarcerated men and women are hungry for hope. To help equip prison ministries for spiritual conversations, I Am Second has designed tracts and DVDs which use real-life testimonials to bring encouragement. The new resources include a simple-to-understand explanation of Jesus’ message and tutorials of how to pray, read the Bible and conduct a Bible study group. To learn more, visit iamsecond.com/prison.
Sign up to connect with I Am Second partner and reformed convict, Duche Bradley, and get a limited-time promo code for 100 free tracts and one DVD for your prison ministry.
About I Am Second
I Am Second is a nonprofit launched in 2008 that ignites hope and inspires people to live for God and for others. Its website, iamsecond.com, features written and film-based stories of more than 150 athletes, actors, models, musicians, cultural influencers and everyday people who have stepped in front of the camera and declared, “I Am Second.” For information, visit iamsecond.com.