Prison Ministry involves going to visit those in prison, or
assisting with Eucharistic Services and Mass held in the prisons.
This is a difficult ministry, but one which we are all called
to assist:
" I was ... in prison and you came to visit me." (Matthew
25:34-40)
The Office of Justice and Peace coordinates the training and
placement of lay persons wishing to do this ministry. A discernment
process is available for those who want to examine this ministry
and reflect on whether they feel called to carry out this ministry.
Prison Ministry includes:
Coordinating and working with those ministering in prison
institutions within the Diocese of Lafayette.
Working with families and relatives who have loved ones in
jail, providing them with spiritual uplift and support during
this difficult time.
Quarterly trips to Angola State Prison for local families
to visit loved ones at Angola State Prison. The bus leaves from
St. Paul's Church in Lafayette and returns in late evening from
Angola.
Teaching basic literacy to inmates in the St. Landry Parish
Jail, providing functional literacy which is measured by one's
ability to accurately read and follow instructions, not just
reading and writing.