Prison Ministry
Imprisoned men and women are God’s children and Jesus asks us to serve their needs, to bring God’s word to them through example and deeds, and to be their Christian companions. Reach out to our local Prison Ministry contact to volunteer and for more information.
What is the Prison Ministry?
The Prison Ministry is a diocesan-wide ministry, which brings the Word of God and the sacraments of the Catholic Church to men, women and juveniles who are incarcerated.
Ministering to the incarcerated
"People in prison are still people, made in the image and likeness of God. No matter what someone has done, they deserve the opportunity to hear the Word of God and find the Truth of the message of Christ."
From the USCCB’s Corporal Works of Mercy document.
“...Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.” - Mt 25:40
Way to Serve in the Prison Ministry
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Prison Visitation
Men and women volunteers minister to help our brothers and sisters "redeem, restore and reconcile" their lives. Inmates often feel unloved and unlovable, but have said in many ways that the volunteers show them that the community hasn’t given up on them.
Volunteers are trained to work in small teams, which minister in specific institutions at various times during the week. On average, volunteers visit institutions about twice a month.
They participate in weekly Mass and informal conversation, Bible study, mentoring, praying, and sharing experiences of Christian living.
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Serve in a Kairos Retreat
Kairos Inside creates Christian communities inside prisons that can transform lives, decrease prison violence, and reduce recidivism.
The Weekend is based on a series of talks, discussions, Chapel meditations, and creating a Christian community.
For many participants, the Kairos Weekend creates the desire to become a Christian, and for others the desire to continue his/her spiritual growth.
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Be a Support Volunteer
Each Kairos retreat weekend has opportunities for outside volunteer support, such as praying, baking cookies, creating artwork (agape) to hang on the walls, or preparing meals remotely at a church kitchen.
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Prayer Partner
All Kairos Ministry activities are covered with prayer. You can volunteer to be a part of that prayer effort while a weekend retreat takes place. We ask for a commitment of at least ½ hour of prayer at a time of your choosing hoping to have 24/7 coverage.