The Purpose of Prison Ministry

The purpose of Prison Ministry can be summed in two simple words: Changed Lives. The Gospel of Jesus Christ has the power to change the heart of hardened criminals. In addition to preaching the Gospel, prison ministry programs disciple reformed criminals to effectively return prisoners into society.

Most prisoners, upon entering jail, come out only to commit more crimes. Imagine a man who went to jail 10 years ago for theft, and he enters society today. When he went into prison, Gas was 1.50 per gallon, rent was less than $500 per month, and the average person could live in the city alone. But now Gas prices have tripled from ten years ago and it is difficult to find reasonable housing. Not only are there economic pressures for someone coming out of prison, but many employers do not hire ex-cons. The temptation to get back into crime only increases once a criminal returns to society. Think about it this way. That next victim might be you.

So why does prison ministry exist?

Prison ministry exists simply to glorify God. What greater testimony to the power of God through Jesus Christ than a murderer to completely reform and become a beneficial member of society, or a thief who stops stealing, or a drug addict who no longer has an addiction. It simply shows the power of God working in the lives of people.

Prison ministry does this by first loving the inmates and sharing that God does love them, so much so that He died to pay for their crimes. When God changes their hearts, they are then taught about God through the bible. This includes discipleship, teaching, and worship.

By working with chaplains, prison ministries offer resources, books, and materials to inmates, giving them the opportunity to learn the bible and what God expects from them. Prison ministries also visit prisons to encourage inmates by holding services on a weekly or monthly basis.

Prison Ministries also can provide resources to men and women who have served their time and are entering society once again. This comes in the form of men and women's homes, church sponsored services, training courses, and other resources. One ministry, PMA (Prison Ministries of America) provides not only training, preaching, and visitation, but they also provide homes for men and women once they get out.

Put simply, Prison ministry changes lives, helps rebuild families, and reforms criminals through the Word of God.