Carl "Cee Dee" Farris once an ex-offender himself has been serving in faithfully in prison ministry for over 11 years.  Having experienced life "behind bars" Chaplain Farris understands completely how the message of encouragement, without judgement, means to & the life changing effect it can have on an offender's life.  Known to his Frat Brothers as "Big Friendly" he referred to this season of his life in the TDCJ system (#916504), which he affectionately calls "Texas State University," as having attended "college."  It was here he learned some of life's most valuable lessons.  Where obedience & humility was viewed from a totally different perspective.  It was here he came to know that his big signature smile & previous success could not change his now every day reality.  It was during this time he came to know the God inside of him more intimately, that man couldn't live by bread

alone, but rather by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.  It was here at Texas State University where he made the decision to accept his calling to the work of the ministry & rededicate his life to Christ.  What most call a setback, was only a setup for the destiny God had instore for him. He has passionately encouraged 1000's for the past decade, both male & female that this season of their life is not a stumbling block, but rather a stepping stone.  Encouraging them to dream & live again, however to "live better."    

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His testimony includes these words, "Tough Times Never Last, but Tough People Do" drilling in every believer to Stay in the Race.  Chaplain Farris believes the only way to make it is by reading, studying & trusting the Word of God.  He shares it wasn't anything he has done of his own, but it was the Word of God that has kept him thus far. He is a faithful member of Redeemed Prison Ministry at TFOP Church. Today having visited well over 28 prison units in Texas, 3 in Louisiana & 1 in Oklahoma, he endeavors to change the mindset of the offender & to prepare them for when they too will be released.  In the words of Zig Ziggler his actions line up with his beliefs, "If he can help enough people to become successful, then he too will be successful."  His list of accomplishments & achievements include:

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• Associates of Arts in Christian Counseling

• State License Chaplain, 2012

• Has received 2 City of Houston Proclamations from Former Mayors

• City of Houston Outstanding Community Leader Award

• Youngest Board Member appointed to the N.A.A.C.P. by Judge/Congressman Alexander Green

• Former Board Member of the 100 Club of Houston

• Former Gospel Announcer @ K.T.S.U. 90.9 F.M. Radio

• Former Gospel Announcer @ K.W.W.J. Gospel 1360 A.M.

• Former Member of the City Wide Club of Clubs International

• Member of the Gospel Music Workshop of America

• Motivational & Keynote Speaker

• Master of Ceremonies for Various Church, Social, & Civil Organizations for the past 30 years

• Mission Trip to the Country of Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

• Affiliated with several Prison Ministry Organizations in Texas

• Active Affiliate with worldwide "Behind the Walls" Bill Glass Prison Ministry 

• Texas Department of Criminal Justice Chaplaincy Mentor Training Program.

• Founder of Bread of Life Prison Ministry. LLC., 501c

• Host of Certificates, Plaques & Honorariums for Outstanding Community Service

• Part Owner - Northeast Quality Medical Center, 1995

• Part Owner - Tight Squeeze Juice Bar 2025

• Board President of Robindale Creek Community Townhomes, 2020

• Top Fundraiser, MS-150 - Raised over $180,000, 2000-2024