Regional Forum Highlights

Asia Pacific

The 2024 Asia Pacific Regional Forum took place from February 27-29, 2024 at Prison Fellowship Singapore’s Community Hub. 62 delegates representing 20 countries participated in the forum. Among these nations, 14 National Ministries and 3 prospective Chartered Affiliates were represented. 

Gathering under the overarching theme of Leading for Greater Impact, delegates were reminded of the importance of effective leadership and out-of-the-box solutions in navigating the complexities of our time. The forum objectives were clear:  

Delegates both gleaned key learnings from the insightful sessions and found meaning in prayer and fellowship among likeminded peers.  

On the first day of the forum, Andy Corley and Timothy Khoo, current and former Prison Fellowship International President and CEO respectively, spoke about Biblical leadership and emphasized the importance of placing trust in God at every juncture. This was followed by a presentation on Prison Fellowship Singapore’s Integrated Ministry Strategy, which brings together In-Care, Aftercare and Family Care in their ministry approach. Voice For Prisoners, a Hong Kong-based non-profit, shared how its advocacy efforts has raised awareness on drug mules in drug hot spots. 

Day two focused on developing partnerships to achieve a holistic approach in transforming the lives of prisoners. Participants gained insights from our speakers Eddie Tan (Board Member, Faith Comes By Hearing Asia), Jason Wong (Founder, Yellow Ribbon Project) and Joseph See (CEO, Agape Connecting People), highlighting the value of Kingdom partnerships to expand impact in local contexts. Roundtable discussions around the topics of rehabilitation, reintegration and reconciliation facilitated in-depth discussions on critical themes. These discussions were led by Reverend Tobias Brandner (Professor of Theology at the Divinity School of Chung Chi College, Chinese University of Hong Kong), Dr. Sreenivasa Rao (Inspector General of Prison, Andhra Pradesh India), Siew Lin Poh (Director of Community Development, Malaysian Care) and Samuel Lim (Coordinator of Community Development, Malaysian Care), and Tobias Merckle (Executive Chairman, Prison Fellowship Germany). 

On the third and final forum day, delegates visited Singapore Changi Prison and the largest Christian halfway house in Singapore, The Helping Hand. Those who visited the prison learned about Singapore Prison Service’s rehabilitation approach and toured the accommodation facilities and Visual Arts Hub. Others who went to The Helping Hand learned about their reintegration approach and experienced work training facilities for ex-prisoners. 

This forum would not have been possible without the generous sponsorship from Far East Organization and like-minded donors, and collaboration with partner organizations including Faith Comes By Hearing and Prison Fellowship Singapore (Host Office), and our faithful volunteers. Overall, forum participants were blessed in both knowledge and relationships through this event. Delegates shared that they, “learned so much over the few days” and found that there was a “good balance of information and collaboration.”   

Latin America and the Caribbean 

The 2024 Latin America and the Caribbean Regional Forum, held virtually from March 20-21 over Zoom, saw robust participation with 60 to 70 National Ministry leaders attending each day. Representing 80% of the 30 affiliated countries across the region, the forum centered on the theme of “Going for Growth.” Its aim was to equip ministries with management principles rooted in biblical perspectives, guiding them towards embracing greater expansion, reaching more prisons, and impacting more prisoners with the transformative message of Christ. Featuring virtual guest speakers such as Prison Fellowship International (PFI) President and CEO Andy Corley, PFI Board Chair Frances Wilson and PFI Global Field Director Hugh Greathead, daily sessions encompassed bilingual worship experiences, National Ministry-led devotionals, regional updates, prayer sessions and breakout discussions for further fellowship and engagement among participants. 

Throughout the forum, emphasis was placed on translating insights into action. Each National Ministry was encouraged to develop an actionable plan for the upcoming year, moving beyond theoretical discussions on growth towards tangible steps to implement their newfound learnings. This approach aimed to empower ministries to not just aspire for growth but to actively pursue it, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and meaningful impact across the region. 

Europe and Central Asia

The 2024 Europe and Central Asia Regional Forum convened with the primary goal of enhancing communication strategies within National Ministries amidst a dynamic global landscape. Emphasizing adaptability, participants were urged to use diverse communication tools as catalysts for transformative progress, regardless of their ministries’ maturity levels. Representatives from Prison Fellowship Netherlands, Germany, Czech Republic, Albania, Scotland, and Northern Ireland shared insights as guest speakers, enriching discussions with varied perspectives.  

20 of the region’s 32 NMs (60%) engaged in the forum, with a daily attendance ranging between 25 to 35 participants. Post-forum survey outcomes underscored the event’s efficacy, revealing high satisfaction levels among attendees, with many expressing readiness for operational adjustments – indicating momentum towards innovation and growth within the participating ministries. 

The forum was a pivotal platform for fostering collaboration and strategic evolution among NMs, empowering them to navigate contemporary challenges and seize opportunities for advancement. Through engaging presentations, active participation and reflective exchanges, the forum not only imparted valuable insights but also inspired a collective commitment to leveraging communication as a potent driver for positive change and organizational enhancement across the region. 

Upcoming 

Missed your regional forum or want to dig deeper into what you learned? Email your regional staff for further practical resources to continue enhancing your ministry!  

Ministry News Roundup – March 2024

Want your ministry featured in the next Touchstone issue? Submit content here!

Serving Prisoners

The Prisoner’s Journey

Zimbabwe

Watch this inspirational video from Zimbabwean The Prisoner’s Journey graduates singing and dancing with prison officials and Prison Fellowship Zimbabwe staff in Chikurubi Maximum Prison.

Costa Rica

Prison Fellowship Costa Rica shared this image of a graduate with his graduation Bible after completing The Prisoner’s Journey.

Namibia

A graduate of The Prisoner’s Journey shared his testimony during a graduation ceremony facilitated by Prison Fellowship Namibia.


The Listener’s Way

Puerto Rico

Female participants of The Listener’s Way were recently celebrated at a graduation ceremony hosted by Prison Fellowship Puerto Rico.


Serving Families and Children of Prisoners 

The Child’s Journey

Rwanda

In response to a rise in the number of cases of HIV in Rwanda, especially in adolescents, Prison Fellowship Rwanda has proactively partnered with local health organizations to provide education to The Child’s Journey beneficiaries on the causes and prevention of HIV. Caseworkers are also engaging beneficiaries in discussion regarding these topics during their home visits in an effort to ensure the children remain healthy and safe, two of the program’s key result areas.


PromisePath

Burkina Faso

The Prisoner’s Journey graduations provide excellent opportunity to promote PromisePath. In Burkina Faso, these events bring together prisoners, chaplains, representatives of the various religious denominations (Catholic and Muslim), representatives of the prison administration and other guests – providing a wonderful opportunity to promote PromisePath. Hear from a recent TPJ graduate about his gratitude for the program.

“I am in my fourth year of incarceration and like any parent, I was worried about the schooling of my three daughters. In December 2022, I participated in a TPJ event as a representative of the Muslim community in the large building. At the end of the program, we learned that the Prison Fellowship Burkina Faso has an educational program for children of prisoners. After the event, I met one of the managers to understand more about the program but was pessimistic because I am not a Christian. At the end of our interview, he let me know that Jesus accepts everyone and that my children can benefit from support even if they are Muslim. I am relieved because all my children received school kits and school uniforms and they were also invited to the Christmas party (Angel Tree) where they all received Christmas presents. My wife is also happy because it is the first time in our life that we have received such love from strangers. I still can’t get over it and now I have another image of Jesus.” – Diandé, Prisoner

Ministry News Roundup – February 2024

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Check out this quarter’s refreshed storyboards for impact stories from around the world for each program!
The Prisoner’s Journey
Sycamore Tree Project
The Child’s Journey

Serving Prisoners

The Prisoner’s Journey

Argentina

Prison Fellowship Argentina recently hosted a graduation ceremony for graduates of The Prisoner’s Journey in Prison Unit 35.

Côte d’Ivoire

Prison Fellowship Côte d’Ivoire recently held a graduation ceremony for The Prisoner’s Journey.

Dominican Republic

Prison Fellowship Dominican Republic hosted The Prisoner’s Journey course sessions. 

Namibia

A graduate of The Prisoner’s Journey shared his testimony during a graduation ceremony facilitated by Prison Fellowship Namibia.

Rwanda

This graduate of The Prisoner’s Journey was awarded a certificate of completion from Prison Fellowship Rwanda


The Listener’s Way

Cambodia

Prison Fellowship Cambodia recently held a graduation ceremony for The Listener’s Way.


Serving Families and Children of Prisoners 

The Child’s Journey

Cambodia

Mentoring is an essential part of both The Child’s Journey and PromisePath. Volunteer mentors are recruited from local churches who support the programs. These Christian mentors not only share the Gospel with children and their families but also speak into their lives.  They encourage them to stay in school, excel academically and address problems while encouraging and giving them hope. They also provide connection to the local church which serves as another source of support for families.

Prison Fellowship Cambodia mentors share the Gospel through donated Scripture resources during mentoring session.

Rwanda

Each quarter, The Child’s Journey beneficiaries receive a home visit from their Christian caseworker. Home visits are vital to monitoring children and families who are enrolled in the program. During the home visits, caseworkers assess family needs, deliver services and provide much needed support. Home visits ensure the children and families receive all the love, support and care they need.

Zambia

Caregiver support groups through Prison Fellowship Rwanda are very active. The groups provide much-needed support to the participants by ensuring that caregivers know they are not alone and have support from their peers who are on a similar journey.


PromisePath

Benin

Prison Fellowship Benin staff members were hard at work putting together school kits for enrolled children at their Back-to-School event.

The Philippines

Children enrolled in PromisePath through Prison Fellowship Philippines are given the opportunity to join a mentoring group to engage with their peers and learn from local Christian mentors.

Ministry News Roundup – January 2024

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Serving Prisoners

The Prisoner’s Journey

Romania

Prison Fellowship Romania held their first graduation for The Prisoner’s Journey!  

Uruguay

Prison Fellowship Uruguay recently held a graduation ceremony for The Prisoner’s Journey.

Costa Rica

Prison Fellowship Costa Rica recently held a graduation ceremony for The Prisoner’s Journey.

 


The Listener’s Way

Cambodia

Prison Fellowship Cambodia recently held a graduation ceremony for The Listener’s Way.


Sycamore Tree Project

Uruguay

Prison Fellowship Uruguay recently held a graduation ceremony for Sycamore Tree Project.


Other Programs

Nigeria

Prison Fellowship Nigeria has increased their reach and have started ministering in Correctional and Custodial Centers in Lagos. They use local church members, like those pictured here from The Apostolic Faith, to minister to prisoners around the country. 

Eswatini

Thanks to their Onesimus After-Care Program, Prison Fellowship Eswatini’s supported a prisoner who has been incarcerated for 32 years by donating 30 bags of cement to his parent’s home.

Scotland

Listen in to a story about someone who was recently released from prison who had attended a Sycamore Tree course through Prison Fellowship Scotland and how the course significantly changed their life. 

Cambodia

Prison Fellowship Cambodia not only supports prisoners during their incarceration, but also during their re-entry and reintegration to society. They recently shared images of individuals who have both have successfully reintegrated into their community after a few years. They both have established small businesses and achieved stable incomes to support their families. 


Serving Families and Children of Prisoners 

The Child’s Journey

Cambodia

The Annual Progress Report is an important step in ensuring The Child’s Journey sponsors remain engaged and informed regarding the services their sponsored child has received throughout the year. Prison Fellowship Cambodia is now starting its APR campaign.

Other Programs

Czech Republic

The incarceration of parents has a profound effect on their children, something Prison Fellowship Czech Republic has long known thanks to their many years of work with children of imprisoned parents. Now, this has been confirmed by a three-year research study on parenting behind bars, with partners at Masaryk University. The results, along with training and other materials, were shared with social workers to better communicate with children. Learn more 

Uruguay

Prison Fellowship Uruguay got into the Christmas spirit with their Angel Tree program to support children of prisoners!  


Other News

Czech Republic

Prison Fellowship Czech Republic recently sponsored this song that is performed and even partially written by children of prisoners. The main singer and author of the song is one of the four ambassadors PF Czech Republic has engaged to promote their work. Listen in now or click the image below!

Rwanda

Prison Fellowship Rwanda kicked off the new year with a capacity building meeting to create their roadmap for success by discussing strategies, clarifying roles, fostering teamwork and ensuring everyone is on the same page. 

England and Wales

Prison Fellowship England and Waleswinter edition of In:sight is out now! Read about Angel Tree Mother’s Day, a review of @BBC season 2 of Time, and inspiring stories about fundraising and volunteering for PF. Subscribe here to their ‘News and Appeals’ to get your copy.

Australia

Peter Hall has served and volunteered for Prison Fellowship Australia for over 30 years. What started as an invitation to play basketball at a local prison turned into a lifetime of service and transformation. Read Peter’s full reflection on his experience here

Brazil

Prison Fellowship Brazil held their first Education and Professionalization Sector Meeting, marking a significant step in consolidating pedagogical practices in affiliated APACs. During the meeting, essential issues related to the PF Brazil mission (including the importance of constant personal and professional improvement) were discussed.  Read more here.

Ministry News Roundup – December 2023

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Serving Prisoners

The Prisoner’s Journey

Uruguay

Prison Fellowship Uruguay invited prisoners to The Prisoner’s Journey program.

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Other Programs

Italy

Prison Fellowship Italy is preparing something special! Through the Other Kitchen Project, they make and distribute Christmas Lunches in prisons with the help of star chefs, celebrities and volunteers who come together to create moments of joy and hope.

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Suriname

Prison Fellowship Suriname had a blessed end of the year with the men in the Inrichting Duisburg Penitentiary as they had a day full of spontaneous worship, encouragement and fellowship with delicious food and drinks.

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Serving Families and Children of Prisoners 

The Child’s Journey

Cambodia

The Child’s Journey, run by Prison Fellowship Cambodia, rescues, rebuilds and restores the lives of poor and vulnerable children of prisoners by providing assistance in the areas of safety, health care, education and spiritual resiliency. PFC recently shared this photo of a child enrolled in their program receiving a new bike!

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PromisePath

Nigeria

Prison Fellowship Nigeria recently held a registration for children of prisoners to sign up for PromisePath. PFN is currently serving over 500 children in 16 regions across the country. One of their chapter recently held a Back-to-School event for children where they received school kits containing school supplies they need for the new school year.

 

Philippines

Prison Fellowship Philippines PromisePath volunteers conduct mentoring sessions with child beneficiaries as representatives from the prison look on and listen intently.


Angel Tree

Burkina Faso

Prison Fellowship Burkina Faso hosted an Angel Tree event for PromisePath beneficiaries where they each received a gift. PFB Executive Director Jean Eudes Ouedraogo smiles with the precious children who received a gift.

Liberia

Prison Fellowship Liberia hosted an Angel Tree event where children received gift bags.

Romania

Children of prisoners in Romania were gifted Christmas presents this year thanks to Prison Fellowship Romania’s Angel Network. Each year, they serve more and more children with a total of over 15,000 children served this year!

May be an image of 13 people, child, people studying, toy and text

Trinidad and Tobago

Prison Fellowship Trinidad and Tobago packed stockings with snacks and gifts for children with fathers who are incarcerated at the local maximum security prison.

Other Programs

Singapore

Teams from Prison Fellowship Singapore and Singapore Youth for Christ brought children from PFS’ Care Club to Adventure Cove Waterpark! This partnership includes mentoring and tutoring initiatives that add to a child’s holistic well-being.

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Czech Republic

Twenty children with an incarcerated parent visited the President of the Czech Republic, President Petr Pavel and his wife, at the Prague Castle. Children brought wishes and presents to the presidential couple and sang to him a song.
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Other News

Colombia

Prison Fellowship Colombia had the opportunity to share and celebrate the closing of activities for the year. It was a very special moment to thank God for all the effort, dedication and commitment shown by staff members, which was reflected in the achievements and goals accomplished. It was also a space to project the potential challenges for the coming year, in the hope of continuing to contribute to the transformation of lives, reconciliation and peace. During the integration, we enjoyed an atmosphere of fraternity and joy.

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Eswatini

The Africa region of the Prison Fellowship International family has started conducting monthly prayer meetings where national ministry leaders take time to converge and pray virtually. Executive Directors from countries like Zambia, Nigeria, Malawi, South Africa, Mozambique and Eswatini use this time for thanksgiving and peritioning towards the Lord of the Harvest who called us to be co-workers in his harvest field amongst inmates around the Globe.
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Indonesia

Locally known as Yayasan Indonesia Bangkit dan Bersinar (Rise and Shine Ministry), Prison Fellowship Indonesia has just chartered and become the newest national ministry in the family! Currently serving 5,000 of the country’s 270,000 prisoners in 20% of the prisons, this organization has also established pathways for prisoners to participate in theological studies and developed church service for ex-offenders and their families. PF Indonesia was interested in joining the family because they want to increase their organizational reputation with government and church partners while drawing from learnings of other NMs.

Asia Pacific Regional Director Daniel Bey with members of Prison Fellowship Indonesia at a recent chartering assessment.

Nigeria

Prison Fellowship Nigeria held an end-of-year strategic meeting in order to recap what has happened over the past year and plan for the next.

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Ukraine

Prison Fellowship Ukraine held a Christmas evening and charity fair that brought together government representatives, along with church members, prison employees, volunteers, public figures and chaplains. During the event, a children’s group sang Christmas songs and PF Ukraine Executive Director Vyacheslav Kogut prayed and a report on the work of the prison mission and cooperation with the government was shared.
After the evening, carols, hot drinks, a pageant and an exhibition with creative works of prisoners awaited guests on the street. All the money for the sale of the works was donated. The event created an atmosphere of community and understanding that shared the true spirit of Christmas and joy of the holiday season.
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Ministry News Roundup – November 2023

Want your ministry featured in the next Touchstone issue? Submit content here!

Serving Prisoners

The Prisoner’s Journey

Argentina

The Prisoner’s Journey program participants gather to discuss what they have learned about who Jesus is and what He wants for their lives with Prison Fellowship Argentina facilitators. 

Australia

Baylor University’s study of The Prisoner’s Journey found evidence that the faith-based courses transform prisoners and leads to culture change in prisons. NMs who are running The Prisoner’s Journey, like Prison Fellowship Australia, are leveraging these materials and findings in fundraising collateral and promotional materials like this video and this video. Run TPJ and interested in doing the same? Contact [email protected] to get study materials.  

Czech Republic

Collaboration with prison chaplains is essential to national ministry work. Chaplain Aleš Kocián at Světlá nad Sázavou Prison in Czech Republic talks with incarcerated women, not only about spiritual matters, but also about their lives, family or crime. He also leads The Prisoner’s Journey course. Hear his story:  

Malawi

The Prisoner’s Journey graduates proudly display their program graduation certificates, courtesy of Prison Fellowship Malawi 

Papua New Guinea

Prison Fellowship Papua New Guinea celebrated graduates of The Prisoner’s Journey. 

Rwanda

The Prisoner’s Journey program graduates in Rwanda pose with their course completion certificates and gifted Bible. The Prison Fellowship Rwanda Program Coordinator said, “A smile on their faces means they are happy about the program and its positive impact on their life.”  

Uganda

The Prisoner’s Journey program graduates in Uganda wait to receive their new Bible in their native language of Swahili. 

 


The Listener’s Way 

Cambodia

Prisoners who completed The Listener’s Way course in Cambodia receive their certificates of graduation.  

Malawi

Prisoners in Malawi enrolled in The Listener’s Way watch a Gospel film in their native language of Chichewa.  


Other Programs

Nigeria

For the past three months, Prison Fellowship Nigeria has been offering counseling services at a female correctional facility. The celebration for the final day included testimonies of releases and case dismissals with many prisoners rededicating their lives to Christ. 

Singapore

Prison Fellowship Singapore hosted a makeup session for their Women’s Support Group. An experienced makeup artist taught the ladies some basic skills. The women were so excited and joyful for this time of learning!  

Ukraine

Prisoners serving life sentences, representatives of the church and prison staff participated in a table tennis tournament. The event was a success as participants demonstrated a high level of training, planned game strategy, and the ability to track balls and calculate shots. A prison administrator took home first place while prisoners won second and third! 


Serving Families and Children of Prisoners 

The Child’s Journey

Cambodia

Donated Bible and Scripture resources enable children of prisoners to read the Gospel in their own language. Prison Fellowship Cambodia recently shared this video of a child enrolled in The Child’s Journey reading from her newly donated Bible. 

When sponsored through The Child’s Journey, children have the opportunity to communicate with their sponsor through letter writing. PF Cambodia shared this sweet video of a child reading a letter from her sponsor. 

Through PF Cambodia’s Livelihoods program, families are given the opportunity to share their experiences and best practices in chicken rearing to one another. 

Colombia

Cristian is a child who, for a long time, had poor academic performance. He failed two years in school and his behavior was entirely inappropriate at home and school. His extended family who he lived with no longer wanted him in the house. But, because of his enrollment in TCJ, these issues were discovered and addressed. Prison Fellowship Colombia intervened on Cristian’s behalf and now, he has turned his life around and is doing well. He is very grateful for the program and loves to give back by volunteering, as he knows how much TCJ changed his life.  

Malawi

Part of The Child’s Journey includes two school visits per year for each child. During these visits, caseworkers meet and speak with children about their academic progress, and have the opportunity to speak with teachers and administrators about the program. These connections ensure that school officials will cooperate with NM representatives when they need to gather educational information and help to ensure that school officials will reach out to NMs in the future when children face issues at school. The caseworkers in Malawi below, and across all TCJ program partners, work hard to conduct all school visits.   

Rwanda

Prison Fellowship Rwanda has been busy over the past month, from Home Harvest home gardens and child/caregiver trainings to prison visits and mental health awareness events.  

Zambia

This quarter, TCJ NMs worked with strategic partners to provide goods and services to enrolled children. These partners make it possible for NMs to meet some of the families’ very specific needs. Recently, Prison Fellowship Zambia provided families with beds and bedding, which were made possible through a donation from Crossroads Foundation in Hong Kong. 


Angel Tree

Canada

Prison Fellowship Canada attended Celebrate Recovery’s Kelowna Rally to represent Angel Tree and shared about the positive impact the program has on families of prisoners. 

Singapore

Prison Fellowship Singapore shared this letter they collected during last year’s Angel Tree Project. For the past 18 years, these letters have brought the hearts of inmates and their families together in the spirit of Christmas! 

Zimbabwe

For the past three Saturdays, Prison Fellowship Zimbabwe has been conducting Angel Tree events for children enrolled in PromisePath which were attended by 533 children, 233 caregivers and 108 mentors. At each event, children received gifts and scripture resources from Biblica, engaged in mentoring sessions, played games, sang songs and worshipped the Lord.  


Other News

Cambodia

Prison Fellowship Cambodia hosted friends from Alpha Cambodia to discuss the plan for running the Alpha program inside prisons. They also visited a course session of the program that is already being hosted in one of the correctional centers. 

Colombia

Representatives of the Ankarstiftelsen visited Prison Fellowship Colombia to recognize Michael Per-Olof Allerth for his outstanding work and management. His commitment has been fundamental for the success of the PF Colombia programs. 

PF Colombia representatives attended the International Congress on Practices and Restorative Justice, an event that featured national and international speakers. PF Colombia’s shared testimonies of several adolescents who experienced the restorative process through their Juvenile Restorative Justice Program, along with handing out program resources.  

Representatives from Prison Fellowship Colombia, Prison Fellowship International, Pepperdine University, the Colombian Senate and the Colombian National Penitentiary and Prison Institute shared about the ongoing research collaboration in Colombia. Missed the event? Find a summary here 

Czech Republic

Prison Fellowship Czech Republic hosted their annual concert and event, attended by the government officials, families and children of prisoners, prison directors, prison psychologists and other non-profit organizations. Guests from Prison Fellowship Germany and the Netherlands spoke about prison practices and Executive Director Gabriela Kabátová brought a surprise cake to commemorate the Czech Prison Service’s 30th anniversary.

PF Czech Republic volunteers helped collect food donations to distribute to their beneficiaries who are in financial distress. Thanks to generous individuals, 27 banana boxes of food and goods were collected, along with a range of other non-perishable items. 

Ron Nikkel, President Emeritus of Prison Fellowship International, spoke at PF Czech Republic’s APAC International Conference via video broadcast. He said that he sees the current prison system as permanently ineffective, as it only deepens the social alienation of former prisoners from the rest of society. He believes that the APAC method is revolutionary, courageous and has had very positive results. Listen to his full message here

Eswatini

Members of Prison Fellowship Eswatini, the Chosen Generation Evangelistic Christian Movement and other security officers joined in fellowship at the Annual National Prayer Fellowship. It was a wonderful day of networking and connecting with rehabilitation and security stakeholders. 

Sheet Street donated new household materials to PF Eswatini. These items will be used as incentives for good behavior during re-integration and to meet household needs. 

Nigeria

Prison Fellowship Nigeria held its 2023 Southwest Zone conference in Ekiti with the theme of “Glory to Glory.”  

Puerto Rico

Prison Fellowship Puerto Rico received a visit from Dorastela Medina, Prison Fellowship International’s Latin America and Caribbean Regional Director. 

Spain

Prison Fellowship Spain hosted their third annual National Meeting of Volunteers with the theme of “Bringing legal closer to just.” 

Suriname

Doortje Aarts serves as an intern for Prison Fellowship Suriname. An international social work major, she is already fully involved in ministry activities. She is exploring a new area by working with prisoners and their families, but she has embraced the challenge! Doortje said, “I am looking forward to getting acquainted with this work! I myself am not very familiar with guiding prisoners and have never worked in this sector before, so it is going to be very instructive for me!”

Ministry News Roundup – October 2023

Want your ministry featured in the next Touchstone issue? Submit content here!

Serving Prisoners

The Prisoner’s Journey

Uruguay

The Prisoner’s Journey participants complete a course session and a graduate receives his certificate of completion in Unidad 16, thanks to Prison Fellowship Uruguay.

Albania

Graduates of The Prisoner’s Journey are celebrated with certificates of completion from Prison Fellowship Albania.

   

Ukraine

This year, The Prisoner’s Journey launched for Prison Fellowship Ukraine. Two courses have already been held and have graduated prisoners. At Drohobych Correctional Colony, 30 prisoners participated in the program. Last month, 21  successful program graduates were celebrated, receiving certificates of course completion and gifts from their mentors. In Korosten Penitentiary #71, 14 graduates received certificates of completion and gifts. The 200 people present at the graduation also witnessed a concert from Gennady Nikutin, a Christian singer.

 

Rwanda

Prison Fellowship Rwanda completed the first quarter of its ninth program year for The Prisoner’s Journey. Check out these images from the field!

Brazil

Check out some recent pictures from graduation ceremonies for The Prisoner’s Journey held by Prison Fellowship Brazil. 

Namibia

At Windhoek Correctional Facility, some graduates of The Prisoner’s Journey have formed a band and started writing songs about the course and the gospel of Mark. Click here or the image below to hear their songs. 

Romania

Prison Fellowship Romania volunteers from The Prisoner’s Journey participated in a training offered by Romeo Popan, the TPJ project coordinator.  


Sycamore Tree Project

Uruguay

Sycamore Tree Project facilitators from Prison Fellowship Uruguay recently held course sessions in Unidad 4 and 5.


Cambodia

Prison Fellowship Cambodia has begun offering vocational training, specifically in tailoring, for female prisoners at Correctional Centre 2. 

Partnering with Giving University, PF Cambodia visited prisoners in CC2 and provided them with food and basic needs packs.

Italy

Ahead of the International Day of Peace, Prison Fellowship Italy organized a soccer tournament that brought together artists, athletes, prisoners and prison workers at the women’s section of the Roman prison. The event aimed to symbolize global peace through sports and solidarity, involving various sports associations and clubs, with awards for the winning teams and a celebration after the matches. 

Czech Republic

After release, many former prisoners find it hard to go certain places, like restaurants. They may not have the finances, suitable clothes or confidence to do so. Prison Fellowship Czech Republic’s 2 Fish Club, a program to encourage the well-being and reintegration into society of released offenders, celebrated the end of summer with a well-enjoyed restaurant visit. 

Eswatini 

Prison Fellowship Ministries (USA) donated Life Recovery Bibles to Mbabane, Big Bend, Matsapha and Mankayane Correctional Facilities in Eswatini for inmates undergoing rehabilitation process. Prison Fellowship Eswatini had the opportunity to share the Word of God in different cell blocks across the prisons.  


Serving Families and Children of Prisoners 

The Child’s Journey


Recently, National Ministries distributed age-appropriate scripture resources to children and caregivers who participate in The Child’s Journey 

Togo

Zambia

Rwanda and Zambia

Developed as a new initiative within The Child’s Journey, Home Harvest is a livelihood effort for families of prisoners to establishing gardens that increase access to nutritious food for years to come. Prison Fellowship Zambia planted sack gardens during their recent training. Less than 90 days later, the gardens are flourishing with spinach, kale, garlic, and onions (see image below on right)! Prison Fellowship Rwanda and PF Zambia are currently in the process of selecting and training The Child’s Journey families who will be participating. 150 out of 250 planned families have been enrolled and trained, with 20 already establishing gardens. The remaining families will be trained over the next weeks. 

 

Cambodia

Prison Fellowship Cambodia provides food distribution services to children and families of prisoners in The Child’s Journey!  


PromisePath

Burkina Faso

At Prison Fellowship Burkina Faso’s PromisePath Back-to-School event, children received a backpack filled with school supplies and age-appropriate scripture resources provided by Prison Fellowship International’s strategic partner, Biblica. 


Singapore

Prison Fellowship Singapore prepared Sheng Shiong vouchers, a local supermarket, for families served through Angel Tree.  

Czech Republic

Introducing the newest member of the Prison Fellowship Czech Republic team, Chuck! Named for Prison Fellowship International’s founder, Charles “Chuck” Colson, this fluffy friend will now be present at their children’s events. With huge wings, Chuck hug and share the love with several children at once! ️  

At a recent A Day with a Child event, PF Czech Republic brought together incarcerated fathers with their children for a day of games, music, laughter and joy. One father shared that it was the best day in his six-year sentence, while another was able to see his children again after two years. These events serve as motivation and hope for the families and the convicts for the days to come. Learn more.

The most recent guest at PF Czech Republic’s Dream Academy was video game designer Michal Jirásek. He shared with the girls about how he used to escape into computer games and as his love for them has stayed, he now works as their creator. 

Burkina Faso 

Prison Fellowship Burkina Faso launched a new program called The Food Program. Aimed to support women with incarcerated husbands, the program provides small credit for income-generating activities.  

Cambodia

Prison Fellowship Cambodia’s Livelihoods program provides families of prisoners with the opportunity to start chicken rearing. Check out this recent picture of a family’s flock of chickens.  

Trinidad and Tobago

Prison Fellowship Trinidad and Tobago has launched Angel Tree for the 19th year. 200 children will be reunited with their parents in prisons across the country during December.

Côte d’Ivoire 

Prison Fellowship Côte d’Ivoire handed out 500 school kits across two cities. These kits will help the children of destitute families in conflict with the law, as well as the children of prisoners, to return to school. 


Other News

Cambodia

Prison Fellowship Cambodia’s Executive Director, Sabun Ou, served as a visiting expert and conducted a lecture titled “Fostering Collaboration: Private Sector’s Role in Promoting Rehabilitation and Reintegration in Cambodia’s Criminal Justice System” at the United Nations Asia and Far East Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders in Tokyo, Japan.

Scotland

Prison Fellowship Scotland’s Annual Gathering was a time to gather in fellowship and share the work they have done over the past year. The event was filled with an inspiring speech from Charles Maaz, Chief Executive of Glasgow City Mission, worship and meaningful discussions.

Italy

“In Silence, a Light Breeze – The Whisper of Hope” was the theme of the 38th National Convention of the Italian Association for Pastoral Health Care. The event was filled with prestigious speakers over four days, with Prison Fellowship Italy’s Executive Director joining the Inspector General of Italian Prison Chaplains for a session on “Pastoral Care in Prisons.”  

Singapore 

Prison Fellowship Singapore hosted Mr. Lee Kok Hwee, Board Chairperson of Prison Fellowship Malaysia, at their office. It was a wonderful time of exchange, with conversations about exploring possible collaboration and mutual support. 

Lebanon 

Along with seven other southern Middle Eastern countries, Prison Fellowship Lebanon’s Board Chair, Executive Director and Rehabilitation Coordinator visited Italy to learn about therapeutic communities and drug addiction treatment services on Italian soil.  The goal was to disseminate the Italian model of recovery from addiction, exchange knowledge and good practices, and promote capacity building. During the meeting, Board Chair Father Marwan Ghanem spoke about the increase in Lebanese drug users due to refugees and the economic crisis.  

Argentina 

Prison Fellowship Argentina held a training on the treatment and approach to addictions in the framework of the “The Truth Will Set You Free” program that takes place both inside and outside prisons. 

Germany 

Prison Fellowship Germany has been awarded €5,000 from the VNG Foundation’s 2023 Commitment Prize in the category Climate and Nature. With the prize money, local residents and incarcerated men will plant ~100 m² of bird protection hedge at Lake Hainer and create ~500 m² of flowering meadow. This initiative will provide more habitat and diversity for animals and plants, along with more recreational space for the people in the region. Learn more

Colombia 

Prison Fellowship Colombia hosted Dr. Sung Joon Jang and Dr. Byron Johnson from Pepperdine University for a training on ethics and human subjects in the survey process. This training is for the upcoming study to measure the transformative effects on a range of PF Colombia programs. Learn more about the partnership. 

England and Wales 

Prison Fellowship England and Wales’ CEO, Peter Holloway, recently spoke with Amy Follett at TWR UK about the daily struggles of people in prison and how PF E&W supports them in light of staff shortages. Click here or on the image below to listen in! 

Czech Republic 

Prison Fellowship Czech Republic, in partnership with the Czech Prison System and Czech Ministry of Justice, organized an international conference in Prague focusing on the APAC methodology. Originated in Brazil, this methodology is based on the principles of restorative justice and Christianity. Now, it is spreading to other countries and Prison Fellowship International representatives from Europe will share their experience at the conference. Watch day one and day two if you missed it! 

Ministry News Roundup – September 2023

Want your ministry featured in the next Touchstone issue? Submit content here!

Africa

Eswatini

Prison Fellowship Eswatini (PFE) volunteers visited both the Criminal Asylum and Vulamasango Boys Hostel to share the Gospel with the prisoners at both locations.  

PFE staff toured His Majesty’s Correctional Service’s stand at this year’s Eswatini international Trade Fair. Notably, the Rehabilitation and Developmental Section mentioned their fruitful partnership with PFE in their brochure. 

PFE’s local partner, Sheet Street Stores, donated bed covers and pillow cases to provide to inmates in need or recently released inmates. PFE also receives generous donations from Mr. Price Stores. Both of these partnerships help curb recidivism and improve the welfare of those reintegrating into society by acting as a support system to their rehabilitation process.  

Malawi

Prison Fellowship Malawi’s Halfway House program held a workshop titled Voice and Agency Building Among Inadequately Served Populations Through Identification of Advocacy Champions to equip individuals with program knowledge and empower them to be advocacy champions. Workshop participants included government representatives, members of civil society organizations, church representatives, community members, PFM staff, HWH graduates and Malawi prison service staff.  

Nigeria

Prison Fellowship Nigeria recently celebrated The Prisoner’s Journey graduates at Mandala Correctional Facility and Jos Correctional Center.  

Rwanda

Prison Fellowship Rwanda (PFR) received a donation of 24 laptops thanks to DOT Rwanda and GIZ Rwanda that will empower digital career counselors helping refugees in camps across the country to access jobs, scholarships and vital civil documents.  

PFR ensures children enrolled in The Child’s Journey are safe and cared for by conducting home visits. Recently, they distributed shoes to the children through these visits. 

Asia Pacific

Cambodia


Prison Fellowship Cambodia (PFC) shared a video of a child enrolled in The Child’s Journey reciting a Bible verse from John.  


The Cambodia Prisons Alliance, including PFC, the Cambodian Office of Vocational and Career Training and Cambodian Office of Reformed Education and Rehabilitation met to discuss project implementation updates, achievements, challenges and future enhancements.   

Nepal

Prison Fellowship Nepal (PFN) distributed school bags and other goods at a recent event organized through its kinship care program designed to ensure safety and roots in family and community for children of prisoners, Child’s Hope.  

As part of its prison library upgrade initiative, PFN is upgrading Bardiya Prison’s library by providing 300 additional books. Having already established libraries in all 75 Nepalese prisons, including Bardiya in 2006, they are now working to upgrade each library.  

PFN celebrated its 35th anniversary!  

Papua New Guinea

Prison Fellowship Papua New Guinea held a facilitator training for The Prisoner’s Journey at a local church.  

Singapore

Prison Fellowship Singapore (PFS) hosted a gala dinner to commemorate its 70th anniversary with ministry pioneers, volunteers, partners, supporters and former staff members. Guests were treated to an exhibition that traced the history of national prison ministry, good food, a special commemorative video, the launch of a commemorative book titled ‘Forgiven not Forsaken’ penned by PFS’ immediate past chairman and a cake cutting ceremony. Female prisoners made leather cardholders as door gifts for all guests.  

Sri Lanka

Prison Fellowship Sri Lanka organized a prisoner art competition at Colombo Public Library in partnership with the Sri Lankan Prison Department and Prisoners Welfare Department. Many individuals came to view and purchase paintings from the exhibit.  

PFSL held a cricket tournament at Welikada Prison for prison officers and police judiciary in Colombo, Borella and Demadagoda. This event provided an opportunity to build meaningful contacts with prison officials for future connections. 

Europe and Central Asia

Albania

Prison Fellowship Albania was able to provide 370 children with new back packs and school supplies for the upcoming school year through the Secured Childhood program.  

Czech Republic

Thanks to Prison Fellowship Czech Republic’s (PFCZ) Day With a Child project, 24 children across 12 families were able to see their fathers incarcerated at Belušice Prison. The families experienced a precious day full of playing, creating, competing, eating and having private moments with their fathers. One mother shared that she cried through the day as she admired the beauty of seeing her family reunited. Through this program, family bonds are strengthened and prisoners are motivated to return to their family.  

PFCZ is bringing prisoners a different perspective on their lives and an opportunity to reflect and understand what they have done wrong in it through The Prisoner’s Journey. Gabriela Kabátová, PFCZ Executive Director and Founder, shares about this program in a new video. 

England and Wales

Prison Fellowship England & Wales’ Communications Officer is running the London 10K race and he is committed to running an additional 1K for every £10 he raises! Check out his progress here. 

Israel

Prison Fellowship Israel celebrated its 41-year anniversary! Here’s to many more years of ministry.

Poland

Listen in to this short song performed by Kornelia Nel Kijak shared by Prison Fellowship Poland. This short film is about former prisoner Paweł Cwynar’s relationship with the artist, as she played an extremely important role in his life after leaving the prison walls.  

Romania

Prison Fellowship Romania received a new shipment from Barnmissionen, one of its long-lasting partners dedicated to serving people in vulnerable communities.  

Ukraine

Each month, Prison Fellowship Ukraine (PFU) leads prayers and a Bible reading for the State Criminal Enforcement Service (DKVS). This month, attendees included the priest of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and DKVS workers. After reading from the Gospel of Luke, and praying for the country and the punishment system, the group enjoyed morning coffee and fellowship.  

Latin America and the Caribbean

Colombia

Prison Fellowship Colombia (PFC) held a training and psychosocial care session focused on providing emotional and psychosocial support to the family. This was done through training in psychological first aid for guardians, individual psychosocial care for children and adolescents, and personalized, need-based guidance for guardians. 

In partnership with Hope61 and OneMission, PFC participated in a human trafficking prevention workshop with church leaders, Prison Fellowship staff and the general public. The event increased awareness and collaboration to combat human trafficking, sexual exploitation, organ trafficking, labor exploitation and recruitment of child activists. Read more here. 

Paraguay

Prison Fellowship Paraguay held a course leader training for The Prisoner’s Journey program at Cereso and Emboscada Vieja prisons. These trainings were conducted for both external volunteers and internal volunteers (incarcerated individuals who already graduated from the course).  

Uruguay

Prison Fellowship Uruguay shared pictures of course sessions and graduations for The Prisoner’s Journey and Sycamore Tree Project 

Middle East and North Africa

Lebanon

Prison Fellowship Lebanon has started a Drawing Art Academy every Saturday before noon for children of all ages. Take a look at some of the beautiful drawings and paintings they have produced.  

Ministry News Roundup – August 2023

Want your ministry featured in the next Touchstone issue? Submit content here!

Africa

Sierra Leone 

With international missionary Mike Morley from Home Leone, Prison Fellowship Sierra Leone visited male and female inmates in correctional facilities in Freetown and Bo to distribute clothing and reading materials for the prisoners and their children. They also met with numerous correctional chaplains to maintain a positive relationship with the prison system. During these visits, the Word of God is shared with both officers and inmates. 

Nigeria

Prison Fellowship Nigeria and The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival recently hosted a ceremony to honor The Prisoner’s Journey graduates at Ikoyi Correctional Facility.  

Prison Fellowship Nigeria (PFN) inaugurated a new chapter in Anambra State, fostering collaboration between PFN, Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) and Nigerian Parole Board. The Command Controller of Corrections praised PFN’s continued partnership, expecting enhancements to collaboration between ministries in local custodial centers. The Parole Board Chair emphasized the effectiveness of community corrections and restorative justice as a tool of NCS’ key pillars: reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration. PFN’s Executive Director remarked that no single denomination can offer all support, so synergy of all faith-based organizations is imperative. The meeting included a Q&A session, a unanimous deciding vote, presentation of chapter interim leaders and prayers for the new chapter.  

Prison Fellowship Nigeria’s Niger State Chapter held a summer camp for children of prisoners enrolled in PromisePath. This year’s theme was “Precious to God.” 

Asia Pacific

Cambodia

Prison Fellowship Cambodia’s Livelihoods program supports families of prisoners to raise chickens in order to focus on income generation. Watch this video to see a program participant demonstrate how to make chicken or poultry feed. 

The Child’s Journey program provides care and opportunities for children of prisoners to equip them to live a life of full potential. This includes providing medical support, safe shelter, education and nutritious food. Check out the food stock that Prison Fellowship Cambodia is ready to deliver to program participants!  

Philippines

125 male prisoners in the Pasay City Jail, Philippines were recently recognized for their graduation from The Prisoner’s Journey program. Lead by Pasay City Jail wardens and Prison Fellowship Philippines, graduates received certificates of recognition, packaged meals and bowls of champorado, a sweet chocolate rice porridge, at the event.  

Sri Lanka

Prison Fellowship Sri Lanka recently held a pre-prison program in Chenkalady

Singapore

Staff and beneficiaries of Prison Fellowship Singapore’s (PFS) Women Support Group, a female-only fellowship providing a safe space for ex-offenders to make connections and establish friendships, attended a volunteer-led make-up session. PFS programs equip ex-offenders with practical skills in order to add value to their lives and contribute to their wholistic well-being. 

Europe and Central Asia

Scotland

Prison Fellowship Scotland recently released their summer newsletter! Check out the latest edition for prayer requests from around Europe and Central Asia, to learn how PFS measures success and see the impact they have had on children of prisoners recently.  

Czech Republic

A recent article highlighted the alarming recent report from the Czech Helsinki Committee about the lack of accessibility to basic hygienic supplies (toilet paper, sanitary pads, toothbrushes, etc.) in Czech prisons due to financial difficulties. To combat this issue, Prison Fellowship Czech Republic launched a fundraiser to purchase these supplies to ensure that basic hygiene is a right, not a luxury, for prisoners.  

Prison Fellowship Czech Republic’s Angel Camp was recently visited by CNN Prima’s New Day program to share a live broadcast from the camp. The journalist jumped right into the morning warm-up with the children! Watch the segment at the 21 minute-mark here. 

Ukraine

 

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The second week of Prison Fellowship Ukraine’s children’s camp organized took place in the Dmitrivka, Kyiv region. 39 children were able to rest, turn away from the horrors of war and learn Christian principles of life. Packed with games, quests, food and stories about biblical heroes. the camp had an atmosphere that was so friendly that the children did not want to say goodbye. 

Italy

Hosted by Prison Fellowship Italy, 14 prisoners at Lanusei Prison were celebrated with applause and excitement for their graduation from The Prisoner’s Journey program, marking their desire to continue toward a new life of change and hope!  

Latin America and the Caribbean

Perú

Congratulations, Prison Fellowship Perú, for celebrating 40 years of ministry! Their unwavering dedication has brought hope and transformation to countless lives of prisoners and their families. Here’s to 40 more years of restoring lives and breaking the cycle of crime! 

Brazil

APAC Passo Fundo was visited by the Secretary of Criminal and Socio Education Systems and the Secretary of Justice, Citizenship and Human Rights. The committee of secretaries, along with other criminal justice councilors and leaders, were received with lunch and music by the APAC’s director, volunteers and prisoners. This productive meeting enabled the secretaries to get acquainted with the APAC modules already built and future expectations with expansion. 

Prison Fellowship Brazil participated in an online meeting with students from the International Institute of Restorative Practices (IIRP) in in Pennsylvania, USA. IIRP is the world’s premier postgraduate school specializing in the study of restorative practices, providing education, research and consulting services. This is the third year in a row that PFB has been invited to speak to students about the experience of APACs as a restorative justice program. 

Colombia

Prison Fellowship Germany Executive Director, Tobias Merckle, recently visited Prison Fellowship Colombia to strengthens the ties between the two nations and prison ministries. During his stay, Tobias participated in various program activities and shared his experience, knowledge and perspectives to enrich our practices, impact and collaboration. 

Uruguay

As a program partner for The Prisoner’s Journey, Sycamore Tree Project and Prison Project Philip, Prison Fellowship Uruguay is always busy with course sessions and graduations. Check out some of the recent pictures from their many program activities and efforts!  

Costa Rica

Praxis Center of Costa Rica supports Prison Fellowship Costa Rica through student internships to build transformative alliances for a relationship of empowerment and mutual exchange of gifts. Students from the Center recently painted a mural at PFCR’s APAC Center for Restorative Justice and Social Inclusion in San Rafael de Alajuela. Learn more.

North America

Canada

So far this year, Prison Fellowship Canada volunteers have received over 1,000 phone calls from 59 participating institutions through PFC by Phone. This program started during the pandemic as a way of offering support when in-prison programs weren’t possible. Despite their in-prison ministry running again, PFC by Phone continues to be an amazing way of connecting with prisoners for conversation, spiritual friendship, and prayer.  

United States of America

Emily Colson, daughter of Prison Fellowship International founder Chuck Colson, recently shared her father’s testimony as this year marks 50 years since he came to Christ. Read the powerful story below.