Prison Ministry

"When I was in prison, you visited me..." (Mt. 26:36)

This command of Jesus is carried out by parishioners of St. John the Evangelist who minister to the inmates in prison facilities located in the diocese of Gary-Indiana State Prison in Michigan City, Westville Correctional Center and Lake County Jails.

Prison ministry was undertaken at the request of Bishop Dale Melczek to bring the gospel message to incarcerated Catholic Christians. The exercise of religious freedom is a constitutional right.

View the Northwest Indiana Catholic Newspaper "Light in a Dark Place" multimedia presentation for more information about diocesan prison ministry.

Opportunities to Get Involved

Religious involvement as a result of a deepening and enhancement of faith while incarcerated may give direction and meaning to one's life, improve one's concept of self, promote personal behavioral change, and increase the likelihood of reform after completing prison sentence time. How can you help?

• Participate in Catholic services in the prison parish community of St. Dismas.
• Take time for fellowship and sharing with the inmates following the service.
• Conduct Bible Study sessions.
• Instruct converts to Catholicism using the RCIA process.
• Show that inmates are not lost and forgotten; that others do care.
• Donate men's clothing and shoes for inmates upon release.
• PRAY for their rehabilitation.

"Amen, I say to you, whatever you do onto the least my brothers, you do unto me." (Mt. 26: 40)

How to Volunteer

Ministry Coordinator: Deacon Joe Codespoti
Contact Ministry Coordinator: (219) 365-5678 x202