“I was in prison and you came to visit me” (Matthew 25:36).

The pen pal program is vital aspect of the St. Silas Prison Ministry. Through corresponding to inmates, we can offer them support and encouragment. When you write to an inmate, you are writing to Christ in prison.

We believe that your letter writing is far more than simply jotting down a note. It is a spiritual ministry to people in prison and, as such, has the attention of our Lord, His Saints, and the Holy Angels. Should you take on this ministry, we pray that God will guide your thoughts as you respond to the questions and concerns of the men and women you may be writing to.

HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS

  1. Read through this manual thoroughly. There’s no rush—take your time. You may even want to read through it more than once.
  2. After reviewing the information and training provided, pray for discernment to determine whether this ministry is right for you.
  3. Speak with your priest or spiritual father to ask for guidance on whether this is a good ministry for you.
  4. When you are ready to commit, and with your priest’s blessing, complete the Pen Pal Volunteer Agreement Form
  5. St. Silas Director, Fr. Richard, will reach out to you for an introductory call and to schedule your virtual Pen Pal Volunteer orientation.

Once you have completed the orientation, St. Silas will provide you with the name and background information of the incarcerated individual you will be corresponding with.

Questions can be emailed to director {at} orthodoxprisonministry.ca or penpal {at} orthodoxprisonministry.ca