The Impact of Prison Ministry Volunteering

The Reverend Canon Sharon Dunlop, a deacon at St. James’ Anglican Church in Kingston, wants to encourage more volunteers to get involved with prison ministry. Sharon knows this ministry well – She is deeply involved in social justice issues, co-leading the St. James’ Reconciliation Committee and being a member of the Justice and Peace Commission.

Sharon sees prison ministry volunteering as a powerful way to make a positive impact on the lives of incarcerated individuals. At local Institutions in the Kingston area, volunteers play a crucial role in providing support and services to inmates, helping them find hope and purpose during their time in prison.

Sharon notes that one of the key aspects of prison ministry is the involvement of volunteers in chapel services. The Dean of St. George’s Cathedral, The Very Reverend Doug Michael has offered services to celebrate the Eucharist offering spiritual guidance and support to the inmates. These services provide a sense of community and belonging, which is essential for the emotional and spiritual well-being of the prisoners.

Doug’s wife Vanessa is also engaged in various activities beyond the chapel services they hold. Vanessa runs a book club at Millhaven Institution, which meets once a month. This book club offers inmates an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and develop their reading and critical thinking skills. Additionally, Vanessa and other volunteers participate in the chapel group at Collins Bay, which meets on the third Sunday of every month.

Attracting volunteers to prison ministry can be challenging due to preconceived notions and personal experiences that may deter individuals from getting involved. However, those who do volunteer often find it to be a rewarding experience. Volunteers do not need to be clergy; laypersons are welcome and encouraged to participate. The range of volunteer activities is broad, including leading Bible study groups, teaching art, hosting book clubs, and even teaching inmates how to play musical instruments.

Before becoming a volunteer, individuals must go through a security clearance process, which includes background checks and fingerprinting. This process can take upwards of two to three months. Once approved, volunteers undergo training provided by the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) and additional training from the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Kingston. This training ensures that volunteers are well-prepared and aware of the boundaries and restrictions within the prison environment.

Technology restrictions are in place to maintain security and privacy within the prison. For example, volunteers are not allowed to bring cell phones, cameras, or devices like Apple Watches that can record or take pictures.

Sharon herself is very involved at Collins Bay where many volunteers come from the Catholic tradition. But there is a desire to see more Anglicans and individuals from other denominations participate.

She stresses that volunteers are always needed and appreciated—these interactions provide inmates with a sense of normalcy and connection to the outside world, which is crucial for their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

Prison ministry volunteering is a vital and rewarding service that offers hope and support to incarcerated individuals. By getting involved, volunteers can make a significant impact on the lives of inmates, helping them find purpose and prepare for a successful reintegration into society.

For more information on prison ministry volunteering, contact Deacon Sharon Dunlop at (613) 548-7254 or email [email protected].