Prison Ministry Network

The Prison Ministry Network is a growing community of prison ministers, chaplains, volunteers, and parish leaders from across the United States who share a common mission: serving our brothers and sisters behind bars.

Through this network, Dismas Ministry provides opportunities for connection, collaboration, and encouragement among those involved in prison ministry. Whether you are just beginning a ministry or have been serving for many years, this network offers a place to learn from one another and share ideas, resources, and experiences.

Join the Network

We invite you to become part of the Prison Ministry Network by completing the form below. By joining, you will:

  • Receive invitations to future Virtual Prison Ministry Gatherings

  • Connect with others serving in prison ministry across the country

  • Learn about resources that support ministry to individuals who are incarcerated

  • Receive updates from Dismas Ministry and the wider prison ministry community

Please complete the
form below to join our
Prison Ministry Network

We do not share your information with any other organization.

Next Gathering
TBA

Past Gatherings

Prison Ministry Virtual  Gathering 2  – February 26, 2026

On February 26, Dismas Ministry hosted our second Virtual Prison Ministry Gathering, bringing together more than 40 prison ministers, volunteers, and pastoral leaders from across the United States. This gathering provided an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and discuss ways that parishes and dioceses can better support the important work of prison ministry.

Our special guest speaker, Mike Siedlecki from the Chesapeake, Virginia area, shared about the Study Buddy Program, a ministry that connects volunteers with individuals who are incarcerated through correspondence, encouragement, and faith-based support. His presentation offered practical insights for those interested in expanding outreach to individuals behind bars and strengthening ministry efforts within their communities.

This video includes Mike’s presentation along with discussion from our national prison ministry network.

Watch the Recording

Download the PowerPoint or Brochure from Mike’s presentation
PowerPoint – Prison Ministry PowerPoint 2025
Brochure – Mike Sidlecki

Prison Ministry Virtual  Gathering – November 19, 2025

Dismas Ministry, in collaboration with the Catholic Prison Ministries Coalition (CPMC), was grateful to everyone who joined us for our first Virtual Prison Ministry Network Gathering. This national gathering brought together prison ministers, chaplains, volunteers, and parish leaders from across the country for an evening of connection, collaboration, and shared learning.

During the session, participants reflected on their experiences in prison ministry, the ways they first felt called into this work, and the challenges they face inside correctional facilities. Together, we discussed the importance of presence, deep listening, and humility, especially when walking with individuals who are incarcerated. Attendees also shared practical questions related to facility policies, volunteer training, ministry formats, and supporting individuals living with mental illness.

We were honored to welcome two featured speakers, Deb Auclair and Debbie Armenta, who offered heartfelt reflections drawn from their years in prison ministry. Their insights on trauma-informed care, compassionate presence, and spiritual accompaniment enriched the conversation and encouraged all who participated.

Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to this meaningful gathering. We invite you to watch the full recording below and to continue praying for and supporting this growing network of prison ministry leaders.

Watch the Recording

You can easily view the slides from the presentations below:
Debbie Armenta – Deep Listening
Deb Auclair – Thoughts about Prison Ministry

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