What do a new computer owner, a christmas pageant and a lost motorist have in common?

Answer: they all NEED DIRECTIONs

Prodigal Prison Ministries

sponsored by St. Francis in the Fields Episcopal Church

MissionStatement:

To assist ex-offenders in assuming a productive role in society, living out a meaningful life and resuming family responsibilities. 

 Most of us need direction, encouragement and help when we try something new, or when we embark on a new journey.  Imagine how much direction, encouragement and help, an ex-offender needs when entering life outside prison.

Prodigal Ministries was founded in 1994 by Charles Broaddus to assist ex-inmates.  Mr. Broaddus served eight years at the Kentucky State Reformatory. During his years in prison, he observed the high rate of recidivism and resolved to find a way to help ex-offenders when he himself was released. Prodigal Ministries was his answer to the problem.

Prodigal Ministries provides intensive and individualized counseling, direction and practical assistance to men leaving prison.  The ministries’ vision centers on a no-nonsense approach along with Christian ideals to support the men in the re-entry process, so they can resume family responsibilities and lead meaningful lives.

The ministry has helped over 100 ex-offenders to make that extremely difficult transition. There are four cornerstones to the program: mentoring - ex-offenders learn behavior modeled on Christian mentors; counseling - Christian

counselors offer a wide range of counseling services; support groups - ex-offenders who have successfully transitioned focus on the problems and needs of the individual; employment  - all clients are required to work, and the ministries provide employment assistance, when requested.

Prodigal ministries support

St. Francis supports the mission and vision of Prodigal Ministries with donations, and the parish is grateful to have five parishioners participating on the Executive Committee of this vital ministry.

the prodigal transition house

In October 2002, Prodigal Ministries opened a residence for their clients on Dixie Highway where thirty men have found much needed support.  Most would otherwise be homeless.  All clients sign agreements to participate in church and Bible study, and to attend mandated programs at the home including 12 Step. One of the most pressing needs is an expanded addiction treatment and counseling program.

“And he arose, and he came to his father. …his father saw him, and had compassion For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”- Luke 15:  20,24

how you can help Prodigal ministries

Mentoring has proven to be one of the most successful elements to effect an authentic and enduring transformation.

Donations are always appreciated.  The Prodigal House needs household goods, furniture, household supplies like soap toothpaste and cleaning supplies.  Monetary donations are especially  welcome.

the truth about outreach ministries

The truth about outreach ministries is that when God calls us to love our neighbor through service, we not only further His kingdom on earth, we ourselves are transformed.  Volunteering for Prodigal Ministries, as a mentor may be one of the most challenging and ultimately rewarding experiences a Christian can undertake.

how to get started working with prodigal prison ministries

Call Sandy Wood, Volunteer Coordinator at the St. Francis parish office, call 228-1176.