Issue link: http://archden.uberflip.com/i/1314685
Diaconal Ministries Resource Manual 19 Prison Ministries S ince the first centuries, Christians have followed Jesus' lead by visiting the impris- oned. The primary mission of prison ministry is to bring God's love and mercy to all, to offer hope to those who may be in times of chaos and treat the incarcerated with dignity. Dea- cons assist at Mass, lead Communion services, Scripture studies and facilitate RCIA. The Director of Prison Ministry, a deacon, coordinates and directs clergy, religious and lay Catholic volunteers by scheduling ministry work at prison facilities. He recruits, trains, and supervises the volunteers, as well as leads the RCIA process for the prisoners. The Director also coordinates facility staff and national diocesan prison ministry groups. The Director is working to introduce new programs that include a Victim Ministry. This ministry will include family member support groups, annual liturgical events for victims of violence, and referral programs for additional assistance to those in prison and their families. Boulder Shelter for the Homeless B oulder Shelter for the Homeless provides services for residents by focusing on find- ing stable housing with case management support and referrals with outside agencies. The Shelter has four programs. Coordinated Entry, where residents meet with a staff per- son and complete a brief assessment before being referred to a local service provider for comprehensive support. Housing Focused Shelter includes case management, counsel- ing, medical care, and Veterans Affairs (VA) resources are provided along with short-term housing. Permanent Supportive Housing pro- vides intense case management to overcome chronic homelessness. Rapid Re-housing assists in finding housing in the community. The deacon is the Program Manager for the Permanent Supportive Housing Program. Because of his role he ministers only when asked by a resident for assistance with prayer or spiritual matters. i Deacon Hal Goldwire deacon.goldwire@archden.org i Deacon Chris Byrne mybyrne@8128@aol.com " " I was in prison and you visited me. Mt. 25:36