Prison Ministry

The Catholic community at Stafford Creek Correctional Facility is alive and well. Our "parish" is after named St. Dismas, the good thief who was crucified next to Jesus. We celebrate Word and Communion on Thursday, Mass on the second Thursday of the month, and have a weekly Bible study on Monday.

Many of the study and DVD programs we've enjoyed at our local parishes, are shared with the men at Stafford. This learning time, creates an environment for discussion and sharing.

We've had the opportunity to welcome new members into the Church at St. Dismas through Baptisms and Confirmations. These occasions are particularly special for the men and usually warrant a cake or cookies prepared by the kitchen, a real treat which makes the event even more memorable.

Aside from visits from the Archbishops, we've also hosted groups of Vietnamese Priests, Deacons and Nuns into the facility. These gatherings allow our Vietnamese speaking offenders the chance to celebrate Mass in their own language.

Christmas can be an extremely difficult time for those who are incarcerated. But Stafford allows a combined holiday event with other denominations. Chosen members of St. Dismas help represent our Church. Offenders offer singing, poems and skits as entertainment and the kitchen cooks a special meal for everyone who attends.

The Catholic ministry team for Stafford Creek Correctional Facility is a dedicated group of individuals, each lending their own unique strengths in helping share the word of God to those who need to hear it most. Prison is a dark and difficult place, but light from God's love shines steadfast at St. Dismas.

If you’re interested in becoming a member of our prison ministry team, contact your parish.

Just to leave in His dear hand little things, All that we cannot understand; all that stings. Just to let Him take the care sorely pressing. Finding all we let Him bear, changed to blessing. ......Havergal