Volunteering in Prison Ministry: What to Expect & How to Get Involved

Volunteering in Prison Ministry: What to Expect & How to Get Involved

When you step into a prison as a volunteer with New Mornings Prison Ministry, you’re not just visiting a facility — you’re entering a mission field where hope, healing, and transformation happen every day. If you’ve ever felt the tug to serve but wondered what it’s really like, or how to start, you’re in the right place. Here’s a guide to what you can expect and how you can get involved.

Why Prison Ministry Matters

Every person has a story. Many of the men and women behind bars are carrying heavy burdens: broken family ties, addiction, trauma, and deep spiritual hunger.
Through New Mornings, we have the privilege of reminding them that no one is too far gone for God’s grace.

Statistics show that faith-based programs dramatically reduce recidivism rates, but more importantly, they bring light into some of the darkest places. Your willingness to show up could be the spark of hope that changes a life forever.

What to Expect When Volunteering

Emotional Impact

Walking into a correctional facility for the first time can feel overwhelming — even intimidating. That’s normal. But what surprises many volunteers is how quickly walls come down — not just physical ones, but emotional ones too. You’ll see genuine gratitude, powerful worship, and hearts that are hungry for the truth.

Training and Preparation

Before your first visit, you’ll go through training that covers everything from security procedures to how to respectfully engage with participants. New Mornings ensures every volunteer is fully prepared, equipped, and supported. You’ll learn how to listen, how to share your faith with sensitivity, and how to maintain healthy boundaries.

Ministry Activities

Volunteers at New Mornings participate in a range of activities:

• Leading or assisting Bible studies

• One-on-one mentoring

• Group prayer meetings

• Worship services

• Letter writing and encouragement programs

You might be teaching from Scripture or simply offering a listening ear to someone who hasn't been heard in years.

Working with Different Populations

New Mornings ministers in men’s and women’s facilities. Each environment has its own rhythm and needs — but in every case, the goal is the same: to build relationships that point back to Christ’s love.

How to Get Involved

Find a Prison Ministry Organization

You’re already on the right path! New Mornings Prison Ministry offers multiple opportunities for you to serve in various capacities. You can fill out our Volunteer Form here and find out all the ministry opportunities to choose from.

Application and Background Checks

Because volunteers work in secure environments, you’ll complete an application and background check. This ensures the safety and security of everyone involved — volunteers and residents alike.

Attend an Orientation or Training Session

Our team will guide you through an orientation session to prepare you for what’s ahead.
You’ll meet other volunteers, learn about our mission, and get the tools you need to start confidently.

Start Small

You don’t have to commit to a full schedule right away. Start with one event or one group session, and let God grow your role over time.

"I’ve formed meaningful connections with many of these women and have supported them as they transitioned back into life after prison."- Cindy

Tips for New Volunteers

• Stay flexible – Prison schedules can change unexpectedly.

• Listen first – You don’t need all the answers; presence often speaks louder than words.

• Be patient – Healing and trust take time.

• Practice respect and confidentiality – Every person’s story deserves dignity.

Remember, your consistency can make a world of difference to someone who has experienced a lifetime of inconsistency.

Final Encouragement

Volunteering in prison ministry isn’t always easy. There may be days when you wonder if you’re making a difference. But trust this: every prayer, every conversation, every moment of kindness plants seeds that God can grow in His time. You’re not just visiting — you’re becoming part of someone’s story of redemption.

Ready to Get Started?

We’d love to have you join us. New Mornings Prison Ministry is always looking for compassionate, Christ-centered individuals ready to make an impact.

Visit newmorningscares.org to learn more and fill out a volunteer form today.

Let’s bring hope behind the walls — together.