Finding Faith Behind Bars: Derrick McCray’s Story
To know Derrick McCray is to know a story of God’s mercy, forgiveness, and love. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Derrick embraced the city’s vibrant music scene, influenced by shows like American Bandstand and music genres such as rock and roll, jazz, and Doo-wop. He has many incredible stories from his life, but he also faced adversity and despair before God moved in his life and led him to Trinity Rescue Mission.
Derrick left Philadelphia after the passing of his mother, taking advantage of a job connection in Key West to make the move to Florida. Through a series of events along the way, he eventually found himself in Jacksonville, but ultimately settled in St. Augustine, where he quickly found employment and a place of his own. It was there that Derrick met his wife, and they are still married to this day! He also quickly bonded with his mother-in-law, but as time passed, her health declined. Struggling to cope with her illness and passing, Derrick turned to drugs to numb the pain. As his addiction worsened, he made a series of choices that led to his arrest and the possibility of a 40-year sentence.
While waiting for his verdict, something remarkable happened. Derrick began to hear God speaking to him through the man in the cell next to him—only to later learn that no one had been staying in that cell.
“It was an angel sent from God,”
Derrick says.
Not long after, God extended His hand over Derrick once again. Instead of a 40-year prison sentence, the judge gave him a 1-year sentence in county jail. He was quickly placed into a work release program, where two deputies assigned to him treated him with fairness and compassion. Their kindness showed him that there were still people who cared, and this reaffirmed his faith. From that moment on, Derrick gave his all to God.
When he finished his sentence, the connections he had made while in jail led him to Trinity Rescue Mission. He joined the Lifeline Program, which strengthened his relationship with the Lord and supported him as he continued to grow and heal. Derrick is a powerful example of second chances and how the support and encouragement of the men and women of God can help transform the lives of those who feel lost.
