Prison Ministry

• Why Have a Prison Ministry?

Jesus once read a passage from Isaiah that says, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me ...to preach deliverance to the captives, ...” (Luke 4:18; Isaiah 61:1). Also read Matthew 25:35-45. We minister to prisoners because we are told to, and because we believe we can make a difference in their lives.

• What Prisons Do We Minister In?

We minister on a regular basis at the Collins I Correctional Facility and Gowanda Correctional Facility. Occasionally one of our men will preach at another prison in New York State.

• When Does This Take Place?

Other churches help us with this ministry, so there are Bible studies in Gowanda and Collins I every Tuesday. We minister every 1st and 3rd Tuesday, from 7:00pm - 9:00pm.

• What Happens In These Services?

Most of the time is used to preach. Our men bring important, practical messages that will help these men become good fathers, husbands, employees, citizens, and men. There is also hymn singing, but the emphasis is on study, doctrine, and practice.

• How Many Men Come?

Between 10-30 men attend on Tuesday evenings. Between 40-180 men have attended the Annual Revival Meetings.

There are 1,800 men incarcerated at Gowanda, and 750 at Collins I.

• Who Is Involved in This Ministry?

Several other men from other churches work in this ministry. From our church, Pastor Kohl, Frank Broughton, Joe Devlin, Brian Spiller, Vince L. and Chris Baran are currently involved. If you are a man interested in this ministry, see any of these for more information.

Last Updated February 18, 2007