Prison ministry
Freedom in Christ is available to every heart, no matter where it is found. Through Prison Journey Groups, God is transforming the lives of incarcerated men and women by drawing them into an intimate, abiding relationship with Jesus Christ. As they experience His grace and truth, many are discovering a new purpose, becoming disciples, and are now a source of hope and encouragement to others within the prison walls.
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Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.
2 Corinthians 3:17
God has guided some of our Influencers to take The Journey to men in Prison and to local Jails. This first started at Chino Prison in California, and now, it is being used in Cummins Prison in Arkansas. It took some effort to learn how to work within the regulations of the prison system, but now, after a few years of doing Journey groups, men are being transformed. The overwhelming comment is, “I found my freedom!”
Prison Chaplains and Wardens are taking notice, and God has granted unique favor here. We pray these men will be equipped to help other prisoners and will spread their Godly influence upon their release from prison.
prison ministry UPDATES
The Lord is working in powerful ways in prisons across the nation.
- Prison Ministry
Are you called to minister to inmates?
God is transforming lives behind prison walls through the power of an abiding relationship with Jesus Christ. If you sense Him calling you to serve incarcerated men or women, this guide will help you prayerfully navigate the practical steps of launching a Journey Group while trusting the Holy Spirit to open doors, build relationships, and prepare hearts for His work.
1. Seek the Lord's Direction
Every Journey Group begins with dependence on God. Spend time in prayer, seek wise counsel from trusted spiritual leaders, and trust the Holy Spirit to open the right doors and lead each step of the journey.
2. Establish a Connection
Connect with a Chaplain
Look for an introduction through:- Your personal network
- Churches or ministry partners
- Jail administration
- Department of Corrections (DOC)
- Community Resources or Volunteer Services
Schedule an Initial Meeting
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- Introduce yourself, Influencers, and The Journey (bring a Journey brochure)
- Share a copy of The Journey to the Inner Chamber
- Build rapport and establish a relationship
- Schedule a follow-up conversation
3. Prepare to Serve
Identify a Co-Guide
Many correctional facilities require two approved volunteers when staff members are not present to observe meetings.
Complete the Volunteer Process
Expect to complete:
- Background checks
- Volunteer orientation
- Facility-specific training
Follow all institutional rules and security procedures at all times.
4. Plan Your Journey Group
Meeting Schedule
- Work within the facility’s approved days and times.
- Expect occasional schedule changes or cancellations (sometimes last-minute).
- Remain flexible.
Group Members
- Recruit participants using Journey brochures or approved flyers.
- Establish a cut-off date for new participants.
Meeting Space
Consider:
- Group size
- Space for private prayer activities
- Tables, chairs, whiteboard, or other approved resources
Food (if permitted)
Food could be:
- Provided by participants
- Purchased through the institution
- Brought in from outside
Any outside items must receive prior approval, which may take several weeks.
5. Provide Journey Materials
Influencers Global Ministries will provide a Journey Pack for each participant at no cost.
Please note:
- Request soft-cover materials if hardback books or spiral bindings are prohibited.
- Journals are not included.
Supporting Your Group
If possible, consider purchasing Journey Packs and journals through donations from:
- Regional Directors
- Journey Groups and graduates
- Churches
- Ministry partners
To encourage continued support, consider sharing:
- Participant testimonies (with permission)
- Letters to God, sailboat analogies, or journal excerpts (with permission)
- Thank-you notes
- Invitations to attend Commencement (when approved)
6. Start Small if Needed
Not every facility is ready for a nine-month Journey Group.
Consider beginning with a six-week study using:
- The Journey to the Inner Chamber Small Group Study Guide
- An Orphan No More
Beginning with a shorter study often builds trust, demonstrates the value of the ministry, and prepares participants for the full Journey process.
7. Additional Resources
Visit Influencers.org for additional resources, support, and information about launching Journey Groups.
prison ministry media
What We're Saying
voices of influencers
Hundreds of incarcerated men & women have discovered a deep, abiding relationship with Christ through The Journey.
Paul Holzmer
Northwest arkansas
The Journey was a game-changer for me.
Sean Baker
Pismo Beach, CA
…she said, “daddy, since you joined a Journey Group, Jesus lives in our house.”
Wayne Hardy
Pastor, Tulsa, OK
The Journey has done more for the lives of men in this church than anything I’ve seen!
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