Jail & Prison Ministries
Catholic Charities oversees Diocesan efforts to provide jail and prison ministries in various settings. Staff provide training for volunteers who serve at State prisons in Toledo, Lima, and Mansfield, and at county jails and treatment centers throughout the Diocese of Toledo.
The ministries includes worship services, retreats, Scripture study, Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults and pastoral counseling. Ministry services vary depending on the facility.
Volunteers participate in supporting returning citizens with rent assistance, food and furniture delivery, mentoring and spiritual opportunities and “share the journey” support for families of the incarcerated. Other volunteer opportunities include the ALPHA program, retreats, Bible studies and Eucharistic Ministry.
Catholic Charities provides ongoing events to raise awareness of the ministry and opportunities to become involved. The agency also hosts an annual gathering to affirm and inform current volunteers.
Activities include victim awareness programs, prayer vigils before state executions, and advocacy for the repeal of death sentences.
For more information about Jail & Prison Ministries, please contact Deacon Ed Irelan at 419-214-4958 or email: eirelan@toledodiocese.org
