Most adults have limited first-hand knowledge of what it feels like when that prison door closes behind them, and they face the reality that their lives just took on an entirely different direction. It can be even more traumatic when that door closes during your high school senior year, taking your hopes, dreams and career aspirations on an out-of-control downhill spiral. That was how it felt when, at age 17, Gene McGuire was facing criminal charges for a homicide at a bar in Lake Winola, Pennsylvania. This inspiring story of what took place next during the 34 years he was incarcerated in a Pennsylvania prison helped to not only carry Gene into the destiny that God had planned for his life, but helped to propel him into the witness he has become to help others realize the amazing saving grace that can be extended to a person who has made multiple mistakes, but yet is not too far out of reach for the loving hand of God to extend grace and restore freedom to those who have been bound by chains, both literally as well as figuratively! Gene currently resides in Fort Worth, TX and serves as a Chaplain, Pastor, and Speaker to bring a message of God’s love, mercy, hope, and redemption to people everywhere. This amazing life story is detailed in the author’s book, “UNSHACKLED”. At 7:30 p.m., the free event at Mansfield University will open with a live performance by Commandment 11 Ministries based in Simpsonville, South Carolina. In 2007, the group experienced a dramatic shift in their focus, when the Lord began opening doors for them to go into prisons and drug and alcohol recovery centers, where they share about the forgiveness and restoration available to all through the Cross of Jesus Christ.  Directly following the C11 performance at 8:15 p.m., Gene McGuire will then bring his message of God’s love, hope, and redemption to the crowd. Both events are jointly sponsored by Recovery Revolution and Knoxville Yoked Church Celebrate Recovery.  Music, books, and support materials for all of these various ministries will be available for purchase on location during these free community events. For information contact Knoxville Yoked Church Office at 814-326-4187.