1. How can I become a prison ministry volunteer?
Applications and training are currently held virtually through the TDCJ website. Those interested in becoming a Prison Ministry volunteer must first complete an application and submit it to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). Following approval, the applicant is required to take a three hour training session to become a “State Approved Volunteer”. This status will allow for the person to participate as a Kairos Prison Ministry volunteer as a member of the inside team, and attend monthly reunions that take place on the second Saturday of each month.
2. Why can only men serve on the inside team at Clemens?
It is a Kairos rule that inside teams match the gender of the prison being served. For those who work on the outside team, participation by all is gratefully accepted.
3. Is having done a 3-day weekend a prerequisite to being on team?
The short answer is no. However having been on a 3-day Christian weekend, similar to Kairos such as Walk to Emmus, Tres Dias, Chrysalis, or Cursillo will better enable the Kairos volunteer to understand and appreciate the experience which the prison residents will experience.
4. Isn’t being in a Prison dangerous?
The training provided by TDCJ will equip you with a number of do’s and don’ts to help ensure your prison ministry experience is a positive one. Furthermore during the course of a weekend, you will always be accompanied by other volunteers all while under the close scrutiny of security officers.