About Us
What do we do?
- To create Prison Ministry Teams for jail, prison and assists chaplains in meeting the spiritual needs of inmates and staff throughout the Potomac Conference territory.
- To encourage prisoners, former prisoners and members of their families to become Christ’s disciples and responsible members of His church and community.
- To provide a Conference-wide collaborative of re-entry and family ministry services to meet the social and spiritual needs of persons recently released from incarceration and to the families of prisoners.
- To provide training, recognition and support for Christian fellowship, in order that PCPM members can become more effective in their work.
How We Fulfill Our Mission
The Potomac Conference Prison Ministry carries out its mission through dedicated volunteers, comprehensive training, and Christ-centered partnerships with churches and correctional institutions.
Training and Volunteer Development
Our professionally trained volunteers and instructors conduct several comprehensive prison ministry training courses each year. These programs equip volunteers with the biblical knowledge, practical skills, and institutional guidelines necessary to minister effectively and respectfully within correctional facilities.
Church Consultation and Ministry Development
We provide free consultation and assistance to churches throughout the Potomac Conference that desire to establish, strengthen, or maintain a prison ministry. We also help churches understand the process of obtaining approval to minister in local jails and prisons. As representatives of Jesus Christ, our volunteers are expected to reflect His character at all times while faithfully following the policies and procedures of each correctional institution.
Conference and Regional Training
We conduct Conference-wide and regional training events that provide opportunities for spiritual growth, Christian fellowship, leadership development, and the exchange of effective prison ministry practices. These gatherings strengthen our volunteers and promote excellence in ministry throughout the Conference.
Prison Ministry Sabbath
Upon request, we provide qualified speakers, free of charge, to churches throughout the Potomac Conference for Prison Ministry Sabbath or other designated worship services. These presentations educate congregations about the biblical foundation of prison ministry, inspire volunteer involvement, and highlight opportunities to share the hope of Jesus Christ with those affected by incarceration.
WHY ADVENTISTS VISIT JAILS AND PRISONS
Prison ministry is not merely a humanitarian service; it is a vital part of Christ’s mission entrusted to His church. Scripture provides compelling reasons why believers are called to minister to those who are incarcerated.
1. Jesus Identifies Himself with Those in Prison
Jesus taught that ministering to those in prison is an act of service to Him.
“I was in prison, and ye came unto me.”
Matthew 25:36 (KJV)
He also warned that neglecting those in prison is equivalent to neglecting Him (Matthew 25:44–45).
2. Prison Ministry Fulfills the Great Commission
Correctional institutions are mission fields where the gospel can be proclaimed to individuals who may never otherwise hear the message of salvation.
“Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”
Mark 16:15 (KJV)
The command to preach the gospel includes those who are behind prison walls.
3. We Continue Christ’s Mission of Seeking the Lost
Jesus came to seek and save those who were separated from God. Prison ministry extends His compassion, forgiveness, and hope to men and women who need a Savior.
“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”
Luke 19:10 (KJV)
Every inmate has the opportunity to experience God’s transforming grace through Jesus Christ.
4. The Holy Spirit Transforms Lives
Only the Holy Spirit can change a hardened heart. As believers faithfully share God’s Word, the Holy Spirit works through human instruments to bring conviction, repentance, and spiritual renewal.
“And I will give them an heart to know me, that I am the LORD: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God: for they shall return unto me with their whole heart.”
Jeremiah 24:7 (KJV)
Through the power of the gospel, lives can be restored, families reconciled, and individuals prepared to live according to biblical principles and become faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.
