For the last three weeks, you’ve heard about the work that’s happening across our diocese to share the love of Christ with those struggling through incarceration. You’ve read about the ways that the Sunshine Club has brought joy and dignity through the sample act of writing cards. You have heard how Camp Genesis helps kids experience a safe and nurturing environment at Chapel Rock every summer. And you’ve seen how Angel Tree brings hope and cheer to families at Christmas. And perhaps more than that, you’ve heard the people of our diocese testify that these ministries have changed their own hearts and minds.
Prison Ministry
Camp Genesis to the Rescue!
Did you know that Arizona is home to over 200,000 children who have an incarcerated parent? That’s 10% of the total for the entire US! We need to reach more of these kids who are affected by incarceration.
A Plea for the Innocent
Project Angel Tree, a program of Prison Fellowship Ministries, has been providing children Christmas gifts on behalf of their mothers and fathers in prison for over 30 years. Parishes like yours volunteer to collect and distribute gifts to these lonely and hurting children, with thoughtful and programmatic support from Project Angel Tree.
What is Prison Awareness Month?
September is the month that our Diocese has set aside to help raise awareness about the effects of incarceration on those who are currently incarcerated, their families, and those who work at the correctional facilities as well as the impact that incarceration has on our communities.
We’re kicking off Prison Awareness Month with the “Straight from the Heart” art show hosted
Raising My Voice & Becoming a Beloved Community
Bridges Reentry, Inc. has been awarded one of the impactful Becoming Beloved Community Grants. Bridges Reentry, Inc. is committed to empowering women transitioning from the justice system through the expansion of the Raising My Voice (RMV) Program. RMV empowers justice-involved women to share their stories of trauma, abuse, and resilience with parishioners and other community groups. Our aim is to collaborate with diverse women of color organizations and communities to amplify marginalized voices. Raising My Voice (RMV) is a transformative leadership program designed to equip formerly
A New Perspective
“He was despised, and we held him of no account.” —Isaiah 53:3
As the organizer of the new prison ministry effort at Saint Philip’s, I was inspired to offer some of my reflections on how the lessons of Holy Week could inform a faith-based approach to working with and advocating for those in prison.
Why Do We Need Capital Punishment?
In the face of overwhelming statistics and facts indicating the ineffectiveness and arbitrary nature of capital punishment in our nation (Death Penalty Information Center, 2023), only 23 States have abolished …
A Simple Card Makes All the Difference for At-Risk Kids
In early June, 16 boys and girls (ages 8-17) who are affected by the incarceration of an immediate family member spent a fun and action-packed week at Chapel Rock in …
Camp Genesis Sunday is Sept. 17th!
Did you know that over 200,000 children in AZ have one or both parents incarcerated – that’s 10% of the national total! These children often suffer from sleeplessness, attention deficit …
Host a Hygiene Drive for Magdalene House!
Magdalene House West became a reality in 2019 due primarily to the hard work of Deacon Gay Romack and the 501c3 Bridges Re-entry organization that she established. Based on the …
What’s Going On for Prison Awareness Month
In 2016 (by Convention resolution), the month of September was designated as Prison Awareness Month throughout the Diocese. The Diocesan Prison Ministry Team is encouraging members from each congregation in our …
Stop By and Meet Us!
The Diocesan Prison Ministry will be hosting an exhibit booth at our upcoming Diocesan Convention. We hope you will stop by and register for the drawing for a beautiful piece …