Prison Ministry Virtual  Gathering – February 26, 2026 at 7PM (CT)

Dismas Ministry invites prison ministers, chaplains, deacons, and volunteers to join us for a Virtual Prison Ministry Network Gathering on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Central Time.

This online gathering was created in response to the many prison ministers who have reached out with questions and requests for support. Topics have included starting or strengthening Bible studies, encouraging participation, responding thoughtfully to questions, and keeping conversations rooted in faith. This gathering offers a space to connect, learn, and grow together.

The goal of the evening is to encourage and inspire new ways of bringing God’s Word and presence to our brothers and sisters behind bars. Moderated by Dismas Ministry, this Zoom gathering will provide time for sharing stories, experiences, and practical insights from those actively serving in prison ministry.

During the gathering, we will also explore several Dismas Ministry resources and share specific examples of how they are being used in correctional settings. In addition, we will introduce a resource that may be familiar to some and new to others. This book has traditionally been offered as a gift to individuals who complete all four of our correspondence courses, recognizing their commitment and perseverance.

Through careful research and thoughtful design, this book walks readers step by step through the Catholic Mass, helping them understand its structure, meaning, and prayers. We have recently recognized that this resource could be used more broadly to support prison ministers, deacons, and volunteers, including those who are not using our correspondence courses but are seeking meaningful, well-grounded materials for their ministry.

Participation is open to all prison ministers. You do not need to use Dismas Ministry resources to take part. We hope this time of fellowship and exchange will strengthen your ministry and help you discover how Dismas Ministry can support your work.

PLEASE REGISTER BELOW.

We look forward to gathering with you on February 26 and continuing to grow together as a community of hope and service.

REGISTER HERE

February 26, 2026

7PM (CT)

REGISTER HERE

Past Gatherings

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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