From Death to Life
“From Death to Life” is an organization based out of the St Jane House in North Minneapolis dedicated to ending violence through healing and reconciliation between families of victims and those who have caused harm. We offer support groups empowering parents to come to terms with the impact of homicide through emotional, spiritual, mental, and physical healing.
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In addition to healing groups, From Death to Life hosts community events that celebrate life, and talks that invite others to witness the healing power of forgiveness and use that vision to heal in their own lives.
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From Death To Life was founded by Mary Johnson-Roy in 2005, shortly before she came to forgive Oshea Israel, the young man who took her only son’s life 12 years earlier. When he got out of prison, they shared their inspiring story of healing and reconciliation in the community.
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Mary went home peacefully to her God on March 27, 2024 after a four-year journey with Lewy body dementia. Her beloved husband Ed Roy was at her side. A Celebration of Life is being planned for April 13, 2024 at Shiloh Temple in North Minneapolis. Please join us in person or online to celebrate and honor Mary on this special day.
Learn about Mary's extraordinary story and her Celebration of Life on April 13, 2024
Mary's Story of Forgiveness
Mary Johnson is the mother of a murdered child, and the founder of From Death to Life. Watch this powerful short video to learn more about her story and the Two Mothers' Healing Groups that she started to provided healing for other mothers.
Two Mothers' Healing Group
If you are a mother who has lost a child to homicide or to prison because of homicide, know that you are not alone. There is hope. Mothers have been healing and grieving in two separate groups that have met at the St Jane House since 2008. On occasion we come together to lead our community in healing, reconciliation and peace.
From Death to Life is grateful for your support.
From Death To Life is an entirely volunteer run organization. 100% of donations are used to share our message of hope with families impacted by homicide, making the healing groups available, and hosting community events promoting peace and restorative justice processes. We are grateful to the Visitation Monastery of Minneapolis for generously hosting us at the St Jane House since 2008. At the moment, there is not a way to make a financial contribution to support our work directly, but if you are so inspired, you can make a donation to support the St Jane House, which supports us. Thank you!