Office > Social Ministries

Prison Ministry

Through the coordination of volunteers, the Prison Ministry of the Diocese of Richmond seeks to ensure a pastoral presence at Virginia correctional facilities and to provide continued support to offenders re-entering society. As we endeavor to serve our incarcerated brothers and sisters may we remember the teachings and example of Jesus:

Jesus demonstrated his disappointment with those who oppressed others (Matt 23) and those who defiled sacred spaces (Jn 2). At the same time, he rejected punishment for its own sake, noting that we are all sinners (Jn 8). Jesus also rejected revenge and retaliation and was ever hopeful that offenders would transform their lives and turn to be embraced by God’s love.

Jesus, who himself was a prisoner, calls us to visit the imprisoned, to take care of the sick , the homeless, and the hungry (Matt 25). His mission began with proclaiming good news to the poor and release to captives (Lk 4). In our day, we are called to find Christ in young children at risk, troubled youth, prisoners in our jails and on death row, and crime victims experiencing pain and loss.

How to get involved:

• Notify us of a facility in need of volunteers
• Request Catholic worship and education materials
• Let us know how you are serving the imprisoned
• Prison Ministry Starter Steps 

Prison Ministry Resources:

• Catholic Prison Ministry Coalition
• Catholic Mobilizing Network
• Prison Fellowship
• Dismas Ministry
• GraceInside
• Kairos Prison Ministry – International
• Kairos Prison Ministry – Virginia
• Bridges to Life
• Assisting Families of Inmates
• Virginians Against the Death Penalty
• National Association of Catholic Chaplains
• Prison Contemplative Fellowship (Centering Prayer Brochure)