Parish Social Ministry
Prison Ministry
The parish social ministry program empowers parishioners to live out their baptismal call to serve the needs of those living in their local communities.
“I have searched hard, yet no words exist to fully describe the physical and emotional unrest felt with the loss of freedom. The distinctive sounds (clank!) of the cell door closing, and suddenly there is no control or power over any situation. You find yourself in a space smaller than a standard master bathroom with a complete stranger for 22 (or more) hours a day, which can go on for many months or years with little relief.”
Read more about Kevin’s journey and the role prison ministry played in his life →
If you have questions regarding prison or jail ministry, contact: Father Joe Corel, Vicar for Prison Ministry, Diocese of Jefferson City at: prisonmin@cccnmo.org
Ministering to the Incarcerated
The USCCB's document on the Corporal Works of Mercy affirms: "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."
Catholic Charities of Central and Northern Missouri provides resources and support for Catholic clergy, religious and lay volunteers providing ministry to the incarcerated in correctional facilities located within the 38 counties covered by CCCNMO. Some of the services provided include the following:
- Supply Bibles, rosaries, and a host of other religious and educational materials and support
- Connection with Residents Encounter Christ (REC) Program – a retreat for inmates
- Host training and days of reflections for Catholic Volunteers in Prison Ministry
- Support for the Kolbe Family Ministry – accompanying families who have loved ones incarcerated.
- Support for the Adrian Group – attending to the spiritual needs of corrections employees.
- We engage in education and advocacy for social justice and the elimination of the death penalty.
Catholic Charities of Central and Northern Missouri
Main Phone Line:
573-635-7719
JEFFERSON CITY
1015 Edmonds Street
Jefferson City, MO 65109
COLUMBIA
1240 E. Brown School Rd.
Columbia, MO 65202
SEDALIA
421 West 3rd Street
Sedalia, Missouri 65301
Diocese of Jefferson City
Chancery Offices
2207 West Main Street
Jefferson City, MO 65109
Phone: (573) 635-9127
diojeffcity.org