Restorative Justice Ministries

"...I was in prison, and you visited me." Matthew 25:36

This ministry is committed to building a Christian community inside the prison walls and assisting ex-offenders as they leave prison. The ultimate goal is that, regardless of their circumstances, all will experience mercy, compassion and God's unconditional love. First UMC supports ministry inside prisons, including Kairos (for adults) and Epiphany (for youth), both similar to a Walk to Emmaus.

Kairos - The mission of the Kairos Prison Ministry is to bring Christ's love and forgiveness to all incarcerated individuals, their families and those who work with them, and to assist in the transition of becoming a productive citizen.

Kairos Prison Ministry is a short three-day course in Christianity that brings to incarcerated adults the message of God's love, grace, and forgiveness. It is an ecumenical Christian Ministry for those who are in custody. Kairos is modeled after similar weekend ministries such as Walk to Emmaus, Cursillo, Tres Dias, and Chrysalis weekends.

For more information about Kairos visit their official website: www.kairosprisonministry.org

Epiphany- The mission of Epiphany Ministries is to offer to incarcerated youth an opportunity to change their lives and value system by introducing them to Jesus Christ. Epiphany seeks to meet the basic need of the "Stars" to feel that their lives are worthwhile because of God's endless love for them.

Epiphany Ministry is a short three-day course in Christianity that brings to incarcerated juveniles the message of God's love, grace, and forgiveness. It is an ecumenical Christian Ministry for young people who are in custody. Epiphany is modeled after similar weekend ministries such as the Walk to Emmaus, Cursillo, Tres Dias, and Chrysalis weekends.

GET INVOLVED

Several members of our congregation have been involved in bringing the weekend-long Kairos and/or Epiphany programs to the youth detention units and prisons in Texas.

There are various ways to participate such as:

1. Participating as a volunteer on a weekend program (You must have attended a three-day weekend such as Emmaus, Cursillo, Chrysalis, Tres Dias, etc.)

2. Commit to praying during the weekend for one or more 30-minute segment. You may pray in the comfort of your own home.

3. Attend a Closing Service.

4. Donate cookies or other necessary items.

5. Sponsor a "Star" on a weekend, or provide other financial support.