How can I volunteer with Prison Ministry?

There are so many ways to get involved with Prison Ministry as a volunteer. We are blessed to have volunteers who are currently serving in the following ways:

• As chaplains, musicians and others who assist chaplains at worship services in the centres.
• Conducting bible study programs on the inside.
• Donating the food, gifts and toiletries that we give to those in need.
• Giving financial gifts to further the ministry.
• Helping in the office doing filing, typing, photocopying, folding and mailing newsletters.
• Packing and delivering hampers and gifts at Christmas.
• Visiting or providing transport to prisoners or families.
• Writing letters to new Christians on the inside.
• Praying for our specific prayer needs.

Prayer support

The importance of prayer as the power behind all we do can never be over emphasised. As the needs become greater, so does our need to place ourselves faithfully in the presence of God, to listen for his direction and to bring our needs before him. We know we have a great God with whom all things are possible. He delights to give us the desires of our hearts and, when we pray according to his will, he hears and answers.

Taste and see that the Lord is good! Happy is the man who takes refuge in him! O fear the Lord, you his saints, for those who fear him have no want! (Ps 34:8,9)

Margaret's mission - an excellent example

Long-time prayer warrior and supporter of Prison Ministry, Margaret Calvert and her daughters, held a fundraising stall for Prison Ministry for the last four years at Wilston UC Market Day. Lovingly hand-made sweets and biscuits, beautifully embroidered bunny rugs and Christmas crafts were symbols of our sister in Christ’s dedication and generosity. So popular were her wares that her efforts raised much needed funds for Prison Ministry’s work supporting children in our back to school project.

Margaret’s ministry of prayer and practical offerings has been not only a blessing to the ministry, but also a personal blessing to our prison ministry team. We have prayed with our dear sister as she has struggled with her health for some time and it must be said that God’s love through her and through her ministry is a blessing and an inspiration to all of us who are growing in God’s grace. Her life’s testimony would have to be that if you are full of the Spirit of God - you cannot help but overflow with blessings on His Church. Thank you to our dear sister and God bless you and all those who serve with loving hearts as you do!

Do you have two men or women who are willing to give three hours one day each week to visit your local prison? Are there any people in your church who are willing to become a pen pal to one other person? Can you organise or provide transportation for people to visit relatives in a nearby prison?

For more information on how to volunteer, please contact Prison Ministry.