Prison Ministry at St. Mary’s Parish is part of Vancouver Archdiocese’s Prison Ministry under Catholic Charities Justice Services. Volunteers from St. Mary’s comprise two groups: one goes to Mountain Institution in Agassiz, and the other to Ford Mountain Correction Centre in the Chilliwack River Valley. The volunteers either assist the chaplain priest to celebrate Mass through leading the prison choir or simply with their presence, or to hold a Liturgy of the Word service in the absence of a priest. The volunteers also conduct spiritual education programs to help the prisoners to deepen their faith and to walk with Christ. All in all, the volunteers, through their presence and sincere interactions with the inmates, help them experience the peace and joy of a Christian community.
The Archdiocese’s Prison Ministry also goes beyond visiting the prisons. It provides support for victims and support for prisoners’ families. It also conducts Circle Of Support and Accountability (COSA) to assist certain released offenders to make a healthy transition back into the world.
Please prayerfully consider joining this wonderful and soul-elevating ministry! “[...] I was in prison and you visited me.” (Matthew 25:36)
