Kairos Is

Kairos Prison Ministry grew out of early attempts to launch movements in prisons similar to the three-day movements in the sacramental churches of the free-world. The ministry of Kairos was preceded by an ecumenical Emmaus/Cursillo tradition.

From this tradition a model was developed which could be presented in any prison without changing the content or format. It was aimed specifically at one environment: that of correctional institutions.

Kairos is a continuing ministry. On an annual basis each unit holds 2 three-day courses, 2 one-day courses (showing new members how to group), 2 two-day mini-retreats plus regular monthly Saturday meetings that the Kairos inmate members conduct.

Team members, lay and clergy, are required to have had an Emmaus/Cursillo/Via de Cristo/Tres Dias experience. In addition, inside team members are asked to commit themselves to one year's participation. Much of the ministry is carried on as the team members return to strengthen the Kairos prison community.

At the men's units, the men work on the inside and the women are on the outside. At the women's prisons, women work on the inside and the men are the outside team. The outside teams are made up of men and women. All team members attend the Closing, which is open to any Emmaus/Cursillo/Via de Cristo/Tres Dias member. Each 3-day lay leader/Rector has applications for the closing, which must be cleared by the prison before attending the closing.

There is a tremendous need for new Kairos team members, both lay and clergy. Please prayerfully consider answering Christ's call to minister to those who are in prison. Kairos needs you ..... Christ needs you!