I participate as a volunteer at Southeastern Correctional Institution. The observed positive transformation of the residents responding to the Kairos program's display of unconditional love is amazing and a wonderful sight to behold.
I was with an inmate at prayer and share at Lebanon correctional institute.
He wanted to pray for his mom with failing health.
When I asked him to start the prayer he told me he didn’t know how to pray.
We prayed for his mom and told him prayers are a conversation with God.
Kairos is working in their community.
God bless the kairos program!
I have served on Kairos Teams since 2010 in Ohio Prisons. I currently serve at the Prison in London, over the years I have witnessed many incarcerated men change there lives for the better.
I have served as a volunteer with this ministry for over twenty years and have seen individual lives changed. Kairos also slowly changes the environment within the prison as the participants take their learnings back to their living and working areas. One of the recent women who was released after many years of incarceration goes with peace that she is forgiven by God, and joy that she can now serve Him on the outside of the prison walls as an interpreter through sign language. When a program affects the recidivism rate, as Kairos does, you know something is being done correctly.
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This charitable organization reaches into the lives of the incarcerated and their families and makes a positive difference for them. As a volunteer, I have seen women recognize that there are still people they can trust, that they have a community to be a part of within the institution, that God still loves them in spite of their crime, and that the forgiveness He offers allows them to begin the healing process so that they can become productive citizens.
When my husband was incarcerated and he went through Kairos Inside and gifted me with a weekend of Kairos Outside. From went he went through Karios Inside I had divorced him and after going through my Kairos weekend I realized that I still loved him and regretted my decision of divorce. We started communicating more after that weekend in 2013 and we had repaired our friendship and our relationship he has been out since 2017 and we are doing good. I have also seen Karios help to restore relationship between other relationships. The hardest thing for Kairos is getting and retaining volunteers especially for Kairos Outside.
I also have some of the most beautiful sisters in Christ that I can call upon anytime. Thank you Kairos for the family of Brothers and Sisters that show you the true love of Christ.
Truly life-changing—both as a participant and as a volunteer with Kairos. The impact is deep, lasting, and filled with God’s grace. Glory be to God!
I would like to share with you the “condensed version” of my testimony about Kairos Prison Ministry.
In 2003, I spent 7 months in the parish jail, waiting to be transferred to DOC, then arrived at Winn Correctional Center at Winnfield, Louisiana February 2, 2004.
I spent 76 days on “lockdown” as I was trying to get shipped to a better place. 19 years later I would find out there is no place “better” they are pretty much all the same, just some worse than others.
It was during those 76 days that I woke up and found a Ziplock bag with 12 chocolate chip cookies in it and a Kairos sticker on the bag.
I eventually found my place in General Population and in August 2004 I began working as a Registered Tutor teaching Math, Algebra, and Geometry.
With time I made friends, and one evening I was at pill call, and I heard someone saying something about going to Kairos Prayer & Share. I asked, “What is Kairos?” And he told me, “Come and see.”
October 2004, I was chosen to attend Kairos Inside #21. I was really excited! The weekend was everything I had hoped for, and beyond anything I had ever experienced in church outside of prison, or even the chapel services I had been in while incarcerated.
I found a whole new family in Kairos, guys inside and the many volunteers we had that kept coming to see us for Prayer and Share and the Weekend events. Like so many others inside I had been divorced following my sentencing, and the majority of my family and friends had cut their ties with me.
Prayer and Share became a lot like an AA/NA meeting in some ways, (“What’s said here, stays here.”) But it was closer to being like a family visit.
The volunteers always took the time to listen, and to pray with us, and they genuinely became someone who actually cared. The “motto” of Kairos is “LISTEN, LISTEN, LOVE, LOVE”.
Fellowship and spiritual support were what we found during those 3 ½ days. You knew who was genuine because those were the ones who always came to Prayer and Share, and the Weekend Instructional groups and anytime something was going on they were there.
For the compound too, those guys, some who had NO interest whatsoever of going to church, they always looked forward to the bag of cookies that Kairos would bring them. Naturally, some of them would “trade off” their cookies, BUT what outside volunteers may not realize is that many guys inside have NO outside support at all.
Some of them have never experienced the love of someone just giving them a dozen cookies.
Kairos lit a spark inside me. I have known many volunteers, both from Kairos as well as other church revivals and general chapel services who had always felt that I should consider prison ministry.
Being a GED Tutor already had me “giving back” to others when I was on the inside, and Kairos provided me an outside connection, and the “want-to”, and I certainly have the time as I have not been able to find anyone who will hire me, despite my work history, (which is another story in itself).
I feel like God wants the time I spend doing what I do for Kairos as my “job”. I feel like in time I will be able to go inside the jails and prisons to “pay back” for all the Agape Love I received all those 14 years I was at Winnfield.
I am waiting for DOC to say “Yes” for a few reasons. I have been in contact with The Diocese of Boise as well as Order of Malta, both who do prison ministry. And I am sure that someone else might like an “experienced insider” to help others understand what it is like to be put away and forgotten.
If you don’t remember anything else I am saying, I want you to remember this: Kairos IS the ONLY family that some of the guys inside will ever have, possibly for the rest of their life!
My friend, John Farmer, (Everyone called him Farmer John), LOVED Kairos. John and I met before Kairos, about three months before we went to our Kairos Inside Weekend. (YES!, John and I ended up attending Kairos Inside #21, and we were at the same “family table”.) It broke John’s heart when he got transferred to Elayn Hunt following a heart attack. He went to EHCC in 2016, I went in 2018, both of us on “Medical Transfers”.
Kairos, and other church related services, were the ONLY visits he ever received. And I knew John 15 years before he died, April 25, 2019. He was just 177 days from going home. He died in his sleep, right by my bed in the same dorm. It’s guys like John, myself, and MANY other guys inside, who count on Kairos volunteers to be there when those Prayer & Share and Weekends come up. Guys like us would literally COUNT THE DAYS until the next time we get to see our Kairos Family.
It is sad that some facilities, (such as EHCC where John died and I spent my last five of twenty years), and some states, do not have Kairos. But indeed…
“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” (Matthew 9:37)
Thank you for listening.
James F.
Current Agape Coordinator (2004-2005) Kairos of Idaho, KPMI, USA
Attended: Winn Kairos Inside #21
(Table Family of St. Matthew) October 2004
Served Kairos Prison Ministry:
Winn Correctional Center, Winnfield, LA, USA
October 2004 – January 2018
Kairos Prison Ministry, Homepage:
Kairos Prison Ministry International
Where you can find Kairos:
Kairos Prison Ministry - Where We Serve
Kairos is an incredible organization and Christian prison ministry. Kairos leadership and all those who serve and volunteer are passionate about what they do. They exemplify Christ’s compassion, mercy, and love to individuals who desperately need help and a life transformation. Jesus taught his disciples to visit and minister to those in prison, and Kairos fulfills this mission.
A Kairos Testimony
March 27, 2025
I would like to share with you the “condensed version” of my testimony about Kairos Prison Ministry. In 2003, I spent 7 months in the parish jail, waiting to be transferred to DOC, then arrived at Winn Correctional Center at Winnfield, Louisiana February 2, 2004. I spent 76 days on “lockdown” as I was trying to get shipped to a better place. 19 years later I would find out there is no place “better” they are pretty much all the same, just some worse than others. It was during those 76 days that I woke up and found a Ziplock bag with 12 chocolate chip cookies in it and a Kairos sticker on the bag.
I eventually found my place in General Population and in August 2004 I began working as a Registered Tutor teaching Math, Algebra, and Geometry. With time I made friends, and one evening I was at pill call, and I heard someone saying something about going to Kairos Prayer & Share. I asked, “What is Kairos?” And he told me, “Come and see.”
October 2004, I was chosen to attend Kairos Inside #21. I was really excited! The weekend was everything I had hoped for, and beyond anything I had ever experienced in church outside of prison, or even the chapel services I had been in while incarcerated.
I found a whole new family in Kairos, guys inside and the many volunteers we had that kept coming to see us for Prayer and Share and the Weekend events. Like so many others inside I had been divorced following my sentencing, and the majority of my family and friends had cut their ties with me.
Prayer and Share became a lot like an AA/NA meeting in some ways, (“What’s said here, stays here.”) But it was closer to being like a family visit. The volunteers always took the time to listen, and to pray with us, and they genuinely became someone who actually cared. The “motto” of Kairos is “LISTEN, LISTEN, LOVE, LOVE”.
Fellowship and spiritual support were what we found during those 3 ½ days. You knew who was genuine because those were the ones who always came to Prayer and Share, and the Weekend Instructional groups and anytime something was going on they were there. For the compound too, those guys, some who had NO interest whatsoever of going to church, they always looked forward to the bag of cookies that Kairos would bring them. Naturally, some of them would “trade off” their cookies, BUT what outside volunteers may not realize is that many guys inside have NO outside support at all. Some of them have never experienced the love of someone just giving them a dozen cookies.
Kairos lit a spark inside me. I have known many volunteers, both from Kairos as well as other church revivals and general chapel services who had always felt that I should consider prison ministry. Being a GED Tutor already had me “giving back” to others when I was on the inside, and Kairos provided me an outside connection, and the “want-to”, and I certainly have the time as I have not been able to find anyone who will hire me, despite my work history, (which is another story in itself). I feel like God wants the time I spend doing what I do for Kairos as my “job”. I feel like in time I will be able to go inside the jails and prisons to “pay back” for all the Agape Love I received all those 14 years I was at Winnfield.
I am waiting for DOC to say “Yes” for a few reasons. I have been in contact with The Diocese of Boise as well as Order of Malta, both do prison ministry. And I am sure that someone else might like an “experienced insider” to help others understand what it is like to be put away and forgotten.
If you don’t remember anything else I am saying, I want you to remember this: Kairos IS the only family that some of the guys inside will ever have, possibly for the rest of their life!
My friend, John Farmer, (Everyone called him Farmer John), LOVED Kairos. John and I met before Kairos, about three months before we went to our Kairos Inside Weekend. (YES!, John and I ended up attending Kairos Inside #21, and we were at the same “family table”.) It broke John’s heart when he got transferred to Elayn Hunt following a heart attack. He went to EHCC in 2016, I went in 2018, both of us on “Medical Transfers”.
Kairos, and other church related services, were the ONLY visits he ever received. And I knew John 15 years before he died, April 25, 2019. He was just 177 days from going home. It’s guys like John, myself, and MANY other guys inside, who count on Kairos volunteers to be there when those Prayer & Share and Weekends come up. Guys like us would literally COUNT THE DAYS until the next time we get to see our Kairos Family.
It is sad that some facilities, (such as EHCC), and some states, do not have Kairos. But indeed…
“The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” (Matthew 9:37)
Thank you for listening.
James F
Attended: Winn Kairos Inside #21 (Table Family of St. Matthew) October 2004
Served Kairos Prison Ministry: Winn Correctional Center, Winnfield, Louisiana, USA October 2004 – January 2018
Current State Agape Coordinator (2004-2005) Kairos of Idaho, KPMI, USA
Kairos Prison Ministry, Homepage: Kairos Prison Ministry International
Where you can find Kairos: Kairos Prison Ministry - Where We Serve
Kairos helps thousands of people every year when they need it the most. By reaching out into the prison system, Kairos is able to bring in slivers of light into the darkness. Those slivers catch hold and illuminate souls like mine. I realized that if these men, who'd never known me, could want the best things for me in life... then maybe I was worth those things. And worth love. And worth forgiveness.... That realization led me down a path that changed my life.
My good friend Tamika reed has been incarcerated for 23 years now and I’m trying to get her an attorney so she can come home. I set up a gofundme on her behalf and a YouTube page . I’m not getting anywhere. I need help
Kairos Prison Ministry is needed to bring the Love of Jesus to the men, women and children affected by incarceration. This Ministry provides a powerful weekend full of listening and loving. I love this nonprofit and serving others with Kairos brings me great Joy.
I love Kairos and what we do for the incarcerated and their families! I personally was touched when I had cancer and my family was fed by our community, I was checked on almost daily sometimes multiple times a day! We are not just a ministry we are a FAMILY!!
Wonderful ministry- sharing the love of Christ with those who are incarcerated, building support for women whose lives have been impacted by incarceration- I have learned so much about the depth of Christ's love and forgiveness by serving in Kairos.
I have been serving in this ministry since 2012. I absolutely love it and all that it does and stands for!!! If you are looking for a place or way to serve the Lord and be His hands and feet, contact us. We will welcome you.
This non-profit changes lives & gives people hope. It empowers people and provides support to the broken. It's true focus is the people they serve. It has been an honor to serve as a volunteer for 20 years.
Hi. I am Aj . I was at CMCF in Ms. I had 4 20 yr sentences
So I was hopeless, angry at myself God this would and everyone . The Chaplin said what you need is Kaiors . She was speaking Jesus into me daily and having trouble with me. But I went. What a life changing experience! Those ladies who didn't even know me or care what I had ever done. Showed me so much love that I could feel. They let me know we were no different and God loves us all the same. ( yes I'm crying right now) I've never been showed that before. Best days ever in prison were with my Kairos family. I found a deeper relationship with God. He sent me a family to help get through this to give me hope. God opened the prison gates for me!! I can't say enough about how thankful I am for his servants. God bless each one of you. Now I get to pray for the ones still on the inside.
Jesus called me to this ministry, and it has been one of the greatest experiences of my life. I see broken men go from death to life. They become the new creation. True men of God and spread the gospel. I love to be in prison with all my brothers in Christ. God has blessed me so much through this ministry.
Cairo's Kairos helped me to turn my life completely around and brought me peace with the Lord after many years of turmoil. My life was never the same after I was a Kairos outside weekend guest.
My friend Brian Colman has been in Natrona county jail for about seven months. He asked for the Chambers New King James devotional Bible. I’ve ordered four and all were denied. Must be paper back must be new must be from the publisher. They won’t even give him a new in house Bible because his has worn out.
I was recently incarcerated and experienced Kairos inside in Mississippi. I was already a child of God, but still having some of the struggles that plague some new believers. Kairos helped to show me the way to true freedom. People, for the most part, simply don't understand what it means for "free world" people to come visit them while they are incarcerated. They are a swell group of men who are committed to making a positive difference in their world for Jesus. Front the bottom of my heart, I love you guys. Keep up the good work.
Kairos changed my life when I went through the weekend retreat. The program had a profound effect on me it Changed me for the better. I was shown Christ's love through the program and its volunteers. May God bless Kairos program and all its volunteers. Amen
Review from Guidestar
Kairos Prison Ministry is an amazing ministry serving the incarcerated and their families. This ministry works together with such unity and love among the volunteers and staff to show God’s love to the broken. I’m amazed on the impact they have on not just the incarnated but on me as volunteer and as an ex offender. People do change with the support and love by ministries like Kairos.
I’ve served on Kairos teams and have seen lives transformed. Lives being served and those serving, including mine
I have volunteered with Kairos for over 10 years. They do amazing work in prisons changing hearts and impacting lives.
I had an amazing experience as a music leader and a weekend leader in Kairos inside. Also served on the Ad Council and as a Weekend Leader Trainer. The small paid staff for such a huge organization are excellent, devoted servants!
I have participated in Kairos Prison Ministries in Oklahoma prisons for a quarter century, and I continue to do so because I can see the results in changed lives, from the worthless to the redeemed. This is a Christian ministry staffed on a local level with volunteers and represents Jesus' love to "the least of these His Brethern." It is ecumenical, I serve with Episcopalians, Baptists, Methodists, Roman Catholic, and the list goes on and on. Many residents who experienced God's love at a Kairos weekend are continuing in the faith, and give their testimonies at reunions, proving that Christ is Lord of all!
They make use of every dollar! Volunteers actually use their personal funds to further the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Kairos is an amazing ministry. I attended a weekend as a guest in 2013 and was showered with Agape ❤️ Love. I have volunteered ever since and I am involved in the advisory council.
Kairos unites families.
This ministry is truly life changing.
Kairos Prison Ministry by the power of the Holy Spirit makes a profound impact on the lives of incarcerated men, women, youth, and their families by sharing the transforming unconditional love and forgiveness of the Lord Jesus Christ. Every Kairos volunteer I’ve ever met has been changed as well. Keep listening listening loving loving. You make a difference
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Kairos Prison Ministry International has had a significant impact on the lives of my wife,my children,my church and of course myself. We have experienced tremendous spiritual growth while sharing the Love and Forgiveness of Jesus Christ. I’ve personally witnessed lives of men, women and youth impacted tremendously. This Ministry changes lives and restores hope.
MY SON MADE HIS KAIROS IN PRISON, HE PUT MY NAME IN FOR KAIROS OUTSIDE. THIS IS FOR WOMEN WHO HAVE A LOVED ONE INCARCERATED. i DIDN'T WANT TO GO AS I THOUGHT WHAT DO THESE WOMEN KNOW ABOUT HAVING A LOVED ON IN PRISON, AFTER 2 DECLINES, I THOUGHT THESE PEOPLE ARE NOT GOING TO LEAVE ME ALONE. I ATTENDED THE WEEKEND AND MY LIFE CHANGED. THESE WOMEN KNEW LOTS OF HAVING SOMEONE IN PRISON. I DON['T KNOW WHERE THEY GOT THE LOVE FOR ALL BUT I WANTED IT. I SERVED MANY WEEKENDS AND EVENTUALLY LED ONE. I ALSO WENT TO PRISONS IN THE AREA FOR KAIROS INSIDE. I HAVE SERVED ON STATE AND OUTSIDE BOARD MEMBER.
The Lord as aloud me to be a volunteer with Kairos Outside of Mississippi for the last 18 + years. I started with KO of Ms #2 in 2005, Helped start KO South Ms #1, also Helped start KO North Ms #1. I was able to serve Kairos Inside #1 in Alabama at Aliceville Women’s Federal weekend #1. This Ministry has helped women deal with the incarceration of loved ones and reunite families. As a mother who’s son was incarcerated it changed my life and my Kairos family helped me through this difficult time and now I can share my story with others and help them. I love being a Kairos volunteer. ♥️ Listen Listen,Love Love ❤️
I've gotten to serve, along with my brothers and sisters, both with Kairos Outside and Kairos Inside. It's great grounds for learning and practicing think more highly of others, think not of self, and unconditional love of God Almighty for all, in Jesus's name.
By God's grace I'll get to continue serving as long as I'm able.
Come join the fun and joy!
I have been volunteer of this ministry for over 15 years. The donations that they ask for cover every part of the ministry. They work hard to make each dollar stretch and while doing this they are still able to bless the incarcerated they serve. I would say they are above reproach in the keeping of their donation recordings. I’m so proud this wonderful group and to be able to take part with them in touching so many lives of the incarcerated .
This truly is the Holy Spirit's ministry from start to finish. As a volunteer I witnessed first hand how His Spirit found and called 40 men from various churches to volunteer their time to go into prison and share God's heart and love like I've never seen it shared before. I witnessed hard hearted inmates melt under the amazing Grace of our Lord and will one day meet those men in Heaven where they will be eternally free. This Hope, they found through Kairos Prison Ministry. Without any doubt you can know donating to this Kingdom building ministry is God's Will.
This organization, primarily through volunteers and a proven program, helps the incarcerated understand the love of God, the need for forgiveness, the strength of community and the hope we can share because of a relationship with Christ. I have seen lives and prison environments changed and improved as the Kairos graduate population increased.
I have been a part of KONET since 2012. I am amazed at the lives of the women in Northeast Tennessee that I have seen transformed by the pouring out of Love from Volunteers and other guest. I am proud to be a part of this family.
My name is Phelix Obuya. I am from Kenya but lived in Pittsburgh, PA for 5 years where I attended some events conducted by Kairos Prison Ministry. Having been invited by my mentor Chaplain Steve Hubbard, I must admit that the wonderful experience and love I received from Kairos family is humbling. Am currently replicating Kairos activities here in my Country Kenya. May God continue blessing Kairos!!
This ministry allowed me to escape a world of isolation and showed me there were others going through the exact same thing as I was. It's opened up a whole new world for me full of friends, laughter and acceptance.
I went to a Kairos Outside program 15 years ago in Adelaide. It changed my life. I was a shy quiet person, who would speak when spoken to, using the least amount of words possible. I didn’t trust men, but the beautiful men who escorted us to our table at the special dinner on the Saturday night and who served us so well all weekend, gave me hope that there are decent men out there. I have been involved ever since, on team, actually Leading KOW 19 Adelaide, go to and later running a SWAP group, going to reunions and being on the Regional Committee. Kairos not only changed my life, but it also saved my life.
In 1995, a little more than three years into a thirty year prison sentence, I was introduced to the Kairos Prison Ministry. The volunteers involved with this ministry showed me that not ALL of society was intent on throwing away the key, that I had innate value as a unique creation of God, and that no matter what I had done, He and they loved me. Kairos was instrumental in helping me maintain my sanity throughout the remainder of my sentence, which ended with my release on June 9, 2021. This ministry is one of only a very few things that can effectively change a prisoner’s life for the better and actually reduce the revolving door of recidivism. I highly encourage everyone to support the Kairos Prison Ministry today.
I have been part the Karios prison ministry for more than 20. I have seen miracles in men's lives. Especially mine
Through Kairos I have seen lives changed. I serve at a women's prison. The ladies find love and acceptance. I call them friends.
Kairos Bill 06/07/2022
Did you mean to mark this as a one star review? It doesn't sound like you did.
Kairos is a wonderful ministry that just listened and loved on me. I met so many amazing woman and I will forever be grateful
I too am a volunteer and member of the Advisory Council for Kairos Ministry. Karios outside Southeast, Florida. I've seen women's lives change and as a give back they too become volunteers. Please continue to donate to this wonderful Ministry. God Bless.
We are currently accepting donations for the following weekend. Kairos Outside #21 (Spanish)
May, 20,21,22, 2022. Our return since the pandemic. Send donations to Kairos Outside, PO Box 3273, Lantana, Florida 33462
Fantastic group that reaches out to hurting souls in prison, showing the Love of Jesus the Christ, through fellowship, sharing and feeding them. They break away the crust of a hardened heart and with the Holy Spirit, change criminals hearts and minds to serve the Creator through Jesus the Christ.
While a pandemic would stop many prison ministries, not so for Kairos! There has been increased communications and training put out from our home office - all intended to have the volunteer prepared and ready to serve once allowed to go back into the prisons. Kairos has multiplied their training tools 10 fold! The website for volunteers is outstanding, easy to navigate and full of helpful information. Even during a pandemic, God has used the staff and volunteers of Kairos to further His Kingdom.
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Sharing the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ to those impacted by incarceration is seen through the actions of Kairos volunteers. This ministry transforms the lives of the intended audience as well as the volunteers. The programs for incarcerated men, women, youth and the women suffering from incarcerated loved ones are systematic in learning about themselves, the forgiveness of Christ and how to move forward. The continuing ministry encourages accountability. Again, something that benefits the audience but also the volunteer to model this behavior. Kairos has been a part of my life for over 10 years and God willing, there will be another 10 years.
Hi Im Mags from Texas.. I joined Kairos a few years ago and it is an amazing experience being able to witness changes that the Lord has put into these men and women’s lives. I am with the Estelle and Eastham Kairos and hope to soon join TORCH!! Seeing how greatful the people in the groups have become and the thirst they have for the Lord, has Made me to want to become more of a light for Jesus and I have gotten a stronger walk with Jesus because of being in Kairos!
Pre Covid I had the opportunity to volunteer an inside Kairos at a max security correctional facility in Florida . Witnessing God work on very hard hearted men was something I will cherish always. Hearing the men provide testimony at the end of our time there is very moving. I can’t wait to be a part of it again.
Listen Listen, Love Love, My life has eternally changed for the better because of KAIROS! Thank you JESUS!
Kairos Prison Ministry changes the lives of the participants as well as the volunteers. What a privilege it has been to see women’s self-worth restored. The Continuing Ministry aspect of Kairos encourages leadership development and creates a Christian community within the prison. As a volunteer, the training has deepened my leadership capabilities , and the team formation process has brought me many new friends. My faith has grown as I participate in Jesus’ command to visit those in prison.
I have the utmost respect and deep admiration for the Kairos Prison Ministry International. I served as a church volunteer first in 2009. I loved the ministry as a layman so much that I attended every one 2 times per year until 2016 when my duties at the Seminary that I managed the Building and Grounds for took all my time and focus. Everything that I experienced serving with this organization was top notch. They really know what they are doing. And yes, I would do it again.
Sincerely, Durbin Downey, San Quentin Kairos, California.
I'm a Kairos fan!!! For I was in prison and you visited me! I've been blessed to be a part of Kairos inside and I love the ministry. The ladies who met me with the love of God helped me when I needed it most and I made so many dear friends who I am so humbled by the love and acceptance that they gave me. Through them I was able to forgive myself and was able to finally realize that God loved me in my darkest hour and then I was able to heal and move on in my faith in God and grow in the grace that was given to me and to all!
Kairos has not only changed my life but the lives of my family. We are so thankful for this ministry!
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Hi there, I started a GoFundMe fundraiser for Impacted by Incarceration (Hope)-Williams Family. I would really appreciate if you can help share this fundraiser.
https://gofund.me/a44d2941
This review comes from a longtime volunteer and also someone who has seen the ministry up close via various leadership roles. I do believe the ministry is ordained by God based on Matt. 25:36. In this regard, KPM is a great ministry.
However I need to separate the God-inspired aspects of the ministry with what I believe to be the actual operational and governance aspects of the ministry. I’m this regard, the ministry is only aspirational in greatness. In actual practice, it is a good organization with many shortcomings and gaps to achieve organizational greatness, both in governance and operations.
Consider this, the ministry serves a population of incarcerated individuals comprised of on average 50-60% people of color e.g. blacks, Hispanics, Asians. This will vary depending on the correctional facility, geographic location and whether mens, womens or youth.
However, KPM does not reflect in its volunteer or leadership base, the diversity of race, age, culture or inclusivity that would make the ministry palatable to a broader volunteer audience. In essence, the ministry today is comprised primarily of white men and women volunteers, mostly “baby boomers” or beyond.
This situation is exacerbated by the existence of a cultural dynamic whereby these primary volunteers maintain this “closed” environment through their antiquated governance models and lack of strategic focus in addressing the area of organizational and cultural diversity.
The leadership of the ministry e.g. BoD has abdicated its role in helping to address organIzational/ministry deficiencies In light of a strong-CEO model. This lack of leadership allows the status quo to remain intact and does not allow the ministry to grow and become more inclusive. Notwithstanding the volunteer numbers, the closed culture ensures that only certain volunteers will find the ministry attractive enough to become involved and hence, a self-fulfilling cycle.
Please note, I am not a disgruntled member of KPM. On the contrary, I love the ministry and believe the ministry is uniquely qualified to fulfill Gods command to serve Him by serving His people. Given the current discourse in our country on social justice and ... when a large number of minorities have been incarcerated based on an unjust criminal justice system, shouldn’t an organization which serves a large % of the minority class, have some responsibility to reflect that diversity in its own organIzation.
The gap from where KPM is now to what it can become is what separates it from greatness. KPM is a good organization ... greatness is still aspirational.
Blessings,
Kelvin Thompson
Alpharetta, Ga.
My involvement in Kairos has been one of the most rewarding things I've ever done. Becoming God's hands and feet to serve the men in prison has provided me the opportunity to witness the transformational power of God's love for us all.
Kairos is a Faith based Ministry where Jesus Chris is Lord and volunteers are lead by Holy Spirit.
My walk was life changing.
I met people who loved me right where I was at. No judgement; just love.
They have continued to love me. Kairos is my family.
My walk 2009, Outside Kairos
Now I serve inside watching Christ change lives through love and acceptance.
Listen
Listen
Love Love
The Kairos Prison Ministry program brings hope to a population that has learned to live without it. Through scripted programming and one-on-one personal interaction, volunteers are able to speak life into residents that are hungry for the message. The Kairos program creates leaders behind bars. I've seen those who stay quiet and keep their head down out of a sense of fear and survival come alive and blossom in the group setting. Subsequent visits tell us a story of a person stepping out in leadership and developing in faith and maturity. This program makes a difference to those who attend. And it makes a difference to the volunteers as well!
Come to think of it, yes, Kairos IS most probably worth number One non profit status! I had the blessed privalage to serve as muso and table leader for about 16 of those attacks! Funny, when you walk out of that prison on the 4th day, you KNOW what Profit is really!
Great organization—real ministry, actions not words—these guys get it done. LISTEN LISTEN LOVE LOVE. The “four-fold” ministry has never been improved upon.
Moving tables and making coffee is a small price to pay for a front-row seat to watch God at work. In Kairos Prison Ministry, we get to see former “throwaways” build transforming relationships with Christ and with each other.
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Kairos Prison Ministry brings the hope found in Christ to some of those who are society’s “throwaways.” To be listened to, to be understood, to be told “God loves you, and so do I” breaks some stony hearts. And the benefit isn’t just to the inmates: Volunteers also often find themselves transformed in unexpected ways!
I was blessed to serve in the first women’s Kairos in Arkansas over 25 years ago! I was on the inside team and it was a soul moving experience! At that time we did everything including cooking meals, ! My husband did not want me involved in this ministry but as usual supported me! When I came home from the weekend filled with the Holy Spirit and shared them with him he said fine but that was not for him! I told them they were going to have a Kairos for men and he would be called to serve! Well he was called and went to the first men’s Kairos in Arkansas! I served on the outside team for them! The Lord saw fit to call us to that ministry for 17 years! We have had the joy if experiencing miracles in prison and outside when our partners were released and joined serving in Kairos. We pray for every Kairos and now are over 80 years old! WhenJesus said” visit the prisoners” He had Kairos in His Heart! This ministry is for any person regardless of your Church membership! Please support Kairos any way you can, Give of your time, talent and treasure to Kairos !
I have volunteered with this ministry for over 15 years. They ask for donations that cover every part of the ministry. They work hard to stretch each dollar and bless the incarcerated they serve. They are above reproach in donation recording, sending statements, spending and record keeping. I’m proud to participate with such a wonderful group.
Started out as an inmate on walk 27 at Boyd Unit Kairos Texas! As soon as I was released I showed up at the volunteer church and started helping wherever I could! I’ve been a family member at two different family tables as a chance to give back! The volunteer that show up and show you Love from people you don’t know! I’m still currently on parole and I love going into the unit! That’s where I get my reward! I can see the hope in the inmates eyes when they realize they are talking to someone that was once right where they are! It’s honestly been better than any high on any drug their is! I Thank God for my new Kairos family they are a huge blessing! I graduated college!!! I had Kairos brother and sister present!!!
I have volunteered with organization for over twenty years and have served on local and state committees along with serving inside the women’s’ correctional institutions and have witnessed first hand the transformational power of God’s love and forgiveness within the prison inmates and within the volunteers. God’s anointing is pervasive with this organization. I have been richly blessed from my participation in Kairos. Starla Revels
My Mom and myself have been doing Kairos for 5 years it has been something I have wanted to do for many years and my mom came with me to spend time with me, needless to say we both got hooked, I was I'm a bad space in my life busy going through a divorce and I thought I was going to bless the residents but my life changed for the better when u go to the training and open day u hey told it is life changing and it truly was the talks the love and the whole Kairos experience changed my life
Kairos is not just for the incarcerated! I am a volunteer and I actually felt like this ministry was ordained and created just for me, and i was there to serve but I got served! God did an amazing thing in my. It’s unfortunate that more churches are not behind this ministry. You truly become the hands and feet of Christ when serving on and in this ministry. I will be so happy when the virus is gone so that we can get back to God’s business! Helping to change the lives of countless men and women!
This will be my 19th year of serving those impacted by incarceration through the programs of Kairos Prison Ministry. I have been able to minister to inmates that were as young as 12 and a few men older than me. I never asked any of them what their crime was, but some shared the information without hesitation. All have been convicted of something pretty serious or they wouldn’t be where they are. I have never felt threatened, at risk or in danger of any kind. I have found that everyone of them is just like you and me, they have made some bad choices in life. The difference between us is that my bad choices, which may have been even worse than theirs, just didn’t have the same outcome. To a man, all have been thankful that other Kairos volunteers and I showed up to visit them. I have seen numerous lives changed in the process, on of them was mine. We are always looking for volunteers, maybe this ministry is what God redeemed you for.
Kairos really helps those who need Jesus in touch with Him. It is truly breathtaking seeing the men and women in action spreading the love and word of our Lord and Savior. Seeing men and women on the inside being loved on and watching them in their walk with Christ. I am so blessed to be a part of the team!
Kairos is truly a blessing for everyone involved. It's life changing and is truly a non-profit that operates from the heart with the best of intentions.
I was invited as a guest 2004 Elako #13 my experience was so touching and eye opening that It started me on the road to live a better life
Ive worked on teams in West Louisiana and East Louisiana I've Angel and I have also taken a break but sometimes you just have to get back to.it .I returned to work a team so I could experience this moment with my cousins before I knew it i was in rotation for Leadership God has given me a second chance I was to lead Elako #5 a few years back and cancelled because I knew I was not spiritual ready and my granddaughter was making her first communion I had to choose and I chose my family
This past March I lead ELAKO #19 my walk with Jesus and allowing God to be in control was the most passionates Moment in my life
In this entire experience I truly learned what giving God complete control and the blessing which will follow are real
If you are an upcoming leader Let God he will.walk you through and your blessings will be pouring in
getting new team members to work
come from the presentation and love you and your team give out
As a team we gained 6 new team members without all of our Ko sisters working together no matter what issues arise we would not have made it Let God Listen Lisren Love Love
KT Elako #19
My husband attended Kairos Inside and I attended Kairos Outside. Although he is still incarcerated, he is now FREE on the inside! This ministry is helping families to see God’s unconditional love, that AGAPE love! We both have stayed involved and connected to this ministry and we have found a new family in the Christian community.
Of all the groups that I have worked with, or been a part of... this group has brought more excitement, encouragement, camaraderie, and strength to my life than any of the others. I went to Kairos thinking I had something to give, something to contribute, that I knew what I was talking about... but I left my first weekend and every month since with the absolute understanding that these women refresh, renew, and reteach me my place, my faith, they have changed my focus and my path. I have redefined my relationship with God through this ministry. And I have watched so many other lives change. I can't even imagine going back to where I was before I met Kairos.
If you have never been invited to attend a Kairos event in prison, you have been cheated out of one of the most spirit filled and amazing things you will ever witness. I have attended 2 walks and many prayer and shares, and watching the transformation of some hardened hearted criminals into praising and crying worshippers of Jesus is awe inspiring. And there's cookies!
I’ve been involved with Kairos for the past 5 years and have found it to be one of the best run nonprofits that I have been associated. Low overhead and focused on the mission. A limited number of dedicated staff that are visionary.
I've been a volunteer for 3 years now and have never had a more fulfilling Christian experience. I have seen men's hearts change in the course of a weekend experience where they encounter Jesus (maybe for the first time). Then, after the weekend, there is continued support and discipleship. It is what Jesus asks us to do! ❤️
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Watching the participants is like watching a microcosm of the entire Christian experience. As Christians sharing Jesus we usually only get to see a portion of this. We plant a seed here, we assist in a harvest there (mostly from seeds we never planted ourselves). Yet, that is not the case on a Kairos weekend. Thursday begins with men who are guarded (figuratively and literally) , timid, unsure what to expect, doubtful, untrusting, some only there for the cookies. By Sunday, these same men are joyously singing to God, embracing each other, loving on each other, expressing a closeness to Jesus that they never knew. There is laughter, tears, forgiveness, and joy. It is like watching time lapse photography of a flower growing, starting from the seed...pushing through the earth...reaching toward the light...and opening into a beautiful bloom. It is miraculous!
Kairos is such a blessing to me and so many others. To be able to tell offenders about the love and grace of Jesus is comforting to my soul. Kairos is my calling and I'm glad to be a part of it.
I was privileged to partner with this non profit organization to enter a youth detention facility. I was able to witness some amazing things that can’t really be explained by natural processes. From guards and residents doing a dance off, to hardened youth breaking down in tears when you bring them a cake with their name on it. It was one of the greatest experiences in ministry that I have been able to be a part of,
I served as a volunteer on a Kairos Prison Ministry event and I got to know one of the inmates well enough that the "mask" of being a strong, tough guy came off. By the end of the Kairos Weekend event, with tears in his eyes, he said that every single male in his family - father, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, and cousins - every one in his family was incarcerated. He was serving his third time, but this time he met the Lord through the Kairos experience, and something was different.
So, he said, all his family males were incarcerated, but now, he was going to break the cycle of incarceration and brokenness so no more from his family would end up in prison. I couldn't imagine how, with his background, that he could realistically think that he could make a difference in his family like that. I'll never forget his reply. He simply turned and looked at me with those tears in his eyes and said "But it is different now because I know Jesus, and He will restore my family and He will use me to do that."
It is so incredible to see the Holy Spirit working through Kairos Prison Ministry to redeem broken lives that society has locked up and thrown away the key, but the Lord hasn't forgotten them.
Mike Springer
Kairos Prison Ministry Volunteer
This ministry has been a godsend to me. I attended my own weekend (Kairos Outside) as a guest in 2017 after my son was incarcerated. I truly experienced God's love through the volunteers on that weekend. For the first time since my son's incarceration, I didn't feel ashamed & sad. The volunteers helped me to understand that I am special & loved by God. Because this ministry means so much to me, I wanted to give back... So, I have now had the opportunity to serve as a volunteer on a Kairos Outside team & a Kairos Inside Team. I have experienced lives transformed through this ministry! AMEN!
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After my son was incarcerated, I was filled with shame. I felt like the world was judging me & I couldn't show my face. When I attended a Kairos Outside weekend (a weekend they sponsor for female family members whose loved ones are incarcerated) it was the first time I felt loved and accepted. The volunteers went out of their way to create a non-judgmental place where we could feel God's love wrapped around us. I was able to lay everything down at the foot of the cross that weekend & came to know the depth of God's love & grace for both me & my son. That weekend changed my life, and I am forever grateful for this ministry.
As a single Mom of an incarcerated son, I was isolated and alone. The Kairos Outside ministry changed my life by coming to my side as a support network. In return, I have volunteered my time to other women experiencing similar life changing family issues.
I just served on my first Kairos Team and I plan to be involved in this special ministry ongoing. Kairos takes the hope of God’s love into the dark place of prison, showing the people there who they are in Christ and that no one and no situation is irredeemable or hopeless.
I didn't recognize my family or myself after my brother was sentenced to prison. He was the man of the house and now we didn't have that role filled anymore. We were at a loss. We felt shame, rejection, anger and became isolated not only from those outside of our family but within our family too. We went on day to day with our lives with no healing in site. Then came Kairos Outside! A coworker suggested it and to say I was apprehensive and unsure is an understatement. I agreed to give it a chance but had every exit strategy in place.
The weekend came and I was unsure what to expect but was pleasantly surprised! From beginning to end I was graced with Gods presence. I've never felt so much love in my life! I've never shed so many tears that were from a place of love and healing. Every part of my experience that weekend changed my life. For so long I was angry at God and even questioned my beliefs. But come Sunday at closing I had a renewed faith in God that could only come from God. I not only found God again but I also gained a family of sisters. I knew my journey didn't end there. I knew i wanted to give to others what I received as a guest.
I've now served for 7 years on Kairos Outside weekends and have gained so much more serving than i did receiving. During these 7 years of serving, my sisters have been my rock through many difficult times. Through the death of my little brother who was only 25 years old (yes the one who brought me to Kairos), through my divorce, through my depression, a few job changes and now the inevitable incarceration of my older sister (waiting sentencing).
After the death of my brother I questioned my place in Kairos and whether it was time to sit out. But God said No! There is still so much more of Gods love to share. As a part of our Advisory Council I look forward to how God will use me in this ministry! I can't imagine my life without being a part of Gods work, Kairos, and blessing future guests as I have been blessed for so many years.
Kairos holds such special memories for me. I’m out of prison on a Appeal Bond. I cherish every day that I’m home but I do miss my Kairos family and especially my 2 sisters. My daughter is a Associate Minister at a church in the Ft Worth Tx area and since my experience she is now volunteering to help as Clergy. So very proud that she will be blessed with this Ministry Prayers go out to everyone who is in this Ministry
Incredible time with my “brothers in white” at the C. T. Terrell Unit; tdcj.state.tx.us/unit_directory… We had a packed house & the Holy Spirit was moving. Thanks to all the KAIROS members for allowing The Bear Man (www.thebearman.com) to participate. KAIROS is a undeniable faith-based God centered group of men. #GodIsMoving
I have served my community in many ways. However I must say that giving hope and respect to these “good and bad guys in another shade of blue” has been most rewarding thanks to KAIROS which means love that was not asked for but given freely.
In 1986 my father was murdered by an 18-year-old boy who was looking for drug money. It was a devastating experience for me, as I was very close to my father. During my prayer time after this terrible experience, I felt God was leading me to pray for the boy who killed my dad. I knew that He loved this boy because he was created by Him. I knew that he was as much God's child as I and my father. This act of obedience led me to the most amazing ministry I could ever imagine, the Kairos Prison Ministry. God graced me by allowing me to share His love with prisoners and their female loved ones. Words cannot describe the joy of sharing Him and being a conduit of His love. During the weekend experience we share God's love and our own experiences with those who have been marginalized by the incarceration of themselves or their loved ones. We develop a sense of trust and openness with those who often feel isolated because of rejection by others and their feelings of anger and loneliness. We develop a sense of community of shared experiences and God's love and healing grace. We leave feeling loved and accepted completely by God and by women who become our sisters in Christ. I have developed many friendships with these sisters, women with whom I can share my deepest thoughts and know they will still love and accept me. God has enabled me to heal from the devastating loss of my father by leading me to share my story and witness the healing in others who needed to feel God's forgiveness and unconditional love. He protected me from the self-destructive need for revenge and the bitterness that destroys the soul. All of this through the Kairos Prison Ministry. Miracles do happen through this ministry and the joy that encompasses those who say yes to it is immeasurable.
In 2010 my loved one attended Kairos Inside in Ohio during a 20 to 50 year incarceration. I watched him change for the better. He continued to talk about his weekend and he shared letters with me that Christian's had written to him for his weekend. He wanted to gift me with the same weekend he had been given. I was extremely reluctant to attend. After 3 years of talk and continued visible change from my loved one, in God's perfect timing....I attended Kairos Outside in 2013. My life was changed forever. I was showered with God's unchanging, never ending love from absolute strangers. All because they too knew God's love.
From that moment on I knew I wanted to give back all that I had received. The following year in 2014 I served on my first team and accepted a position on advisory council. I have continued to serve both as a team member and council member. I can honestly say that I was given so much as a guest. I found so much hope, love, acceptance and joy. But as a team member. I have gained so much more as I share that same hope,love, acceptance and joy. I can see it all over the ladies faces. I can feel their excitement and rejoice with them and for them. I have been able to deal with incarceration so much differently than before Kairos. Kairos is hope. It is love. Kairos developed an amazing program with God's love.
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Oh my heaven I cannot say enough about Kairos prison Ministries in every single thing is so incredibly positive that I can say. What a life-changing experience. I was a guest at Kairos Outside MCI number 16 in 2013 and I sat at the table of integrity. That weekend changed my life period while I grew up in a home or we went to church but it was more religion and not the spirituality that has been awakened in my soul. That weekend was the start! Every single thing about the program is completely thought out.... thought it through as a preliminary introduction to Christianity. It's done in such a way that showed me that I'm worthy He died for me He loves me so much. I've seen the positive positive impact of Kairos Ministry inside the prisons and on the outside. Since 2013 I have served on a team every year and I am on our advisory Council. What an amazing amazing Ministry. I am incredibly blessed to be a part of it!!!
I feel so blessed to be a witness to the unconditional love and joy Kairos Prison MInistry spreads by sharing the Word with so many. Before my interactions with this organization i had never realized the depth of God's love, or even that I was loved. It has been 10 years or so since I was selected to participate in events with Kairos, and I am thankful DAILY still for the skills and guidance they have given me in my life. I learned from them the importance of carrying the mission to others, to help others stay out of prison and lead a decent, centered life. The sacrifices of time and money the volunteers unselfishly give of themselves is beyond amazing. While they don't seem to seek rewards or recognition, Kairos deserves much thanks and recognition.
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Experiencing Kairos gave me hope. It made me know I was not alone, Gid was always with me. Through the weekend, Prayer and Share, reunions and retreats, I was strengthened and encouraged. I've been home over 4 years. I give talks at churches, bake cookies, make agape and sign up for prayer chains.. I learned you don't just leave prison, you turn around and share the gift you've been given to help the next person. God is good, all the time. What a blessing Kairos is!
One of the most rewarding programs I know of. Many men and women after being released have rebuilt their lives. Also many have found a way to live a better life inside a prison
Absolutely by far the most beautiful and blessed ministry I have ever witnessed! God takes these broken and often angry men and washes them in the love and blood of Jesus right before your eyes! Miracles are happening during these Kairos Prison Ministry Weekends, not only for the men and women being ministered to but also for the Kairos Team!
Kairos is spiritually strong. Miracles happen.
This group is scriptural. They have a solid stand on the Bible and are in unity with a variety of Christian religions, that share a common solid rock.
This group is has a great amount of rules, safeguards, and accountability checks to a fault. It is not a quick flashy event that will disperse. If you are called, there are long term commitments that will help you to do God's will for others all your life.
There is a vast amount of prayer support for this ministry.
There is plenty of training. It is handicap accessible. You can do this.
I am very thankful for Kairos. This ministry changed not only my life, but my husband. He loves that I am involved and I have a passion for serving other ladies experiencing the same thing I have.
Amazing ministry! Very well run, well organized, great materials, and changes lives for the better. Kairos uses a four day spiritual retreat inside of prisons to demonstrate the transformative love of Christ, in order to draw the incarcerated into a supportive community that holds one another accountable. Kairos also has bi-weekly or monthly follow-up programs, depending on the Institution, to continue growing and encouraging the inmate participants to live according to Christian principles.
They have excellent custom software to help the volunteers plan the retreats and manage the finances involved with such a large scale event. They also have regularly scheduled training for volunteers and post-retreat assessments to ensure that the very-well defined guidelines were followed.
Kairos is one of the best-loved and most-respected programs in the prison system, by the inmates as well as the wardens, officers, and chaplains.
I have supported Kairos Prison Ministry for almost 30 years. It has been a rewarding experience. I have learned so much through serving on teams and my faith in Christ has matured significantly. This is an awesome, God-led Ministry.
I came to Kairos outside on October 6-8 2017. My experience was absolutely amazing. I have never felt so much love and compassion from total strangers that are now my sisters. My new family.❤
I was sad and emotionally broken. The sincere prayers, love and beautiful smiles have me feeling like a true overcome. I came home with so much joy in my heart. I thank God for each and everyone of the ladies involved.
I have served with Kairos for over 20 years. I is a ministry that provides programed training for all volunteers that support all of its programs. The program benefits the participants with spiritual knowledge and personal growth to help them deal with the conditions of their lives. The KPMI staff and volunteers are dedicated too serving to the best of their ability.
I was a guest on karios Outside number 9 and it was amazing I was also a leader on karios number 19 and I took a year break but I'm back serving again.
Have been a part of this ministry this past year. What a blessing to see God move in the hearts of these men on the inside.
I can not imagine any ministry I have experienced in my 69 years as effective as Kairos. My first Kairos, inside, 15 years ago, found me sitting at a table with the leader, assistant leader and 6 inmates. I thought I had to be a spiritual giant for this event to work. After each talk the inmates would discuss the talk, take notes and make a poster. Each time I would worry about how to move on from there. Well, just listen, listen, and love, love, because what is needed next is what is next with Kairos. The inmates continue to open up, bond, own their short comings and grab onto the love of Jesus like no one I ever experienced before. Kairos has to be blessed by the Lord God in heaven because I see lives changed no matter who is present, correctional officers, inmates, inmate families, chaplains, and especially team members. I have come to expect 42 out of 42 participants to have life changing experiences every Kairos 4 day. It is truly a God thing as I see thankful men express their concerns and gratitude at every Kairos reunion. God is good.
I have been a Kairos volunteer for 22 years. Kairos changes lives through its message of God's love and forgiveness for those who are incarcerated. Kairos Outside reaches the families of the incarcerated, and Kairos Torch reaches incarcerated youth. Kairos volunteers return for mentoring and reunions. Kairos truly changes lives.
If you want a front row seat to a transformational ministry, join a Kairos Team. Kairos International is superior in supporting the ministry to the incarcerated and their families.
I have been associated with many different Christian ministries over the years and have found some of the experiences better than others. After five years of volunteering, including 12 inside weekends, serving on the State Board, attending the Advanced Training sessions and leading a team, I would definitely rate Kairos Prison Ministry International one of the best ministry experiences. The organization is run top-notch and financially transparent. Low overhead and limited paid staff speak to the mission to reach lives with God's love. Each time we have the opportunity to go inside, the teams are thrilled and eager to go. I have never been disappointed, every weekend is a true mission experience as I witness lives being touched and transformed. No other ministry experience reaches so many, so significantly in such a short time. The program works and God moves in their lives. It's an honor to be a part of the Kairos ministry.
As the mother of an inmate I can a test to the value of the Kairos Prison Ministry. My son went through his 4 day walk 8 years ago. It was through him that I learned about Kairos Outside. I spent a weekend with other women who's lives were impacted by a loved ones incarceration. My life was forever changed that wonderful weekend. I found solace in knowing I wasn't alone and that God is with me every step on this journey. For four years now, I have been a Kairos Outside Volunteer, giving to other women the unconditional love and understanding that Kairos and it's members have shown to me. My son and I will be forever grateful for the opportunity to serve others in a similar situation. We also serve the Lord, while showing the broken, they are not alone. Serving in this ministry has made us stronger in our faith. It doesn't get better than that.
I have been involved with Kairos for 10 years now in Texas and can honestly say that God works through this program to change the lives of inmates. I have seen men change from withdrawn, angry individuals to men with Joy in their hearts and desirous of serving others. The one thing that sets Kairos apart from other prison ministries is our continuing presence in the same prison. We go back on a weekly basis to foster prayer and share groups, small groups of inmates that pray together and form support groups for one another. It's this continuing presence that helps to change perspective and lifestyles over time.
It is a great ministry and one that needs funding and personal time to grow. In Texas we have over 150 prisons and Kairos is only in 53 of them. I am sure that is true in other states as well. Almost all of these prisoners will be getting out of prison some day and I often ask friends, would they rather these men know and love God when they get out or would they rather they be the same or worse than when they went in.
I have been involved with Kairos Prison ministry for the past 18 years, at the Louisiana Correctional Instition for Women in St. Gabriel LA. I have personnally seen this ministry change the lives of countless women, having watched their return to productive members of society. The recidivism rate at LCIW in the Kairos graduates is 18%, which is much lower than the non Kairos resident. Kairos International also has strict financial policy's which they require all of the individual prison Kairos council to adhere to for utmost reporting and transparancy.
Review from Guidestar
This ministry has been a very important part of my life for the past 10 years. In the Tallahassee Area we have three programs currently taking place. Kairos Inside for Men is now located in three local prisons. The program is designed to help those who are presently incarcerated. It is a Christian based non-profit organization that helps them to understand how they got where they are and how to change when they are released. It is about choices that life offers everyone. Lives are permanently changed with this knowledge that is new to some and old to others and resurrected by talks from lay people and clergy. All denominations are represented by volunteers. The second program is Kairos Inside for Women who are incarcerated and women learn the love of God and that there are many on the outside that care deeply for them. The third program in this area is Kairos Outside. This program is for loved ones, wives, significent others and friends of those that are serving time in prison. It is for women only. These individuals are serving time right along with their loved ones and it is very hard for them. It is free for them and they are listened to and loved the entire time. The ministry is about changing hearts, transforming lives and impacting the world. I have seen all of these things happen and it is the most effective ministry I have ever been involved in. At the present time, we are working on starting a program in the area that will minister to troubled teenagers, our future leaders of the world.
Kairos Bill 06/06/2022
So happy to hear this Sibylle, and you are a blessing to the women who attend your Continuing Ministry efforts and the Guests on your Weekend!