Prison chaplains bring hope as the ‘hands and feet of Jesus’

by Barry de Silva 

Prison chaplaincy is a sacred calling that requires qualities of caring and compassion. In the Diocese of Lismore, prison chaplains embody what it means to be the ‘hands and feet of Jesus,’ providing hope, dignity, and spiritual guidance to those who find themselves forgotten by society. Through the ministry, chaplains bring the message of God’s unwavering love to those behind bars, reminding them that they, too, are worthy of grace, regardless of their circumstances. 

A vocation of compassion 

Bishop Greg Homeming explains that prison chaplaincy is a mission that aligns with the fundamental calling of the Church. “The extraordinary impact of prison chaplains is their ability to connect with prisoners who see themselves as worthless,” Bishop Greg says. 

Bishop Greg describes prisoners as people “crying out to be noticed” after years of feeling forgotten. “If anyone is looking for connection because they’ve been forgotten and believe nobody cares, it’s in the prisons. Saint Paul spoke about the different gifts that we all have; the gifts of teaching, administration, caring. If he was around now, he would say some are called to ministry in prisons.” 

The Mid North Coast Correctional Centre is a minimum to maximum security hub for male and female inmates, based 14 kilometres west of Kempsey. Macleay Valley Parish priest, Fr James Foster, who’s a prison chaplain at the Centre, sees it as an important work of the Parish and Diocese, as it serves inmates, staff and their families. “It’s a very privileged ministry,” Fr James says. “You are coming across people who are broken, lost, and haven’t had a chance in life.” 

Karine, who is a trained counsellor and one of the chaplains at the Mid North Coast Correctional Centre, speaks about how it was the Lord’s plan for her. “It is a calling to be a chaplain and if that’s what you are called to do, follow your trust in God.” 

Living Christ’s mission 

Fr James says that the ministry extends beyond offering a listening ear; chaplains provide pastoral care as well as spiritual guidance, helping prisoners find solace in Jesus’s closeness to them, whether by offering prayers or simply being present. “We’re living Christ’s mission, as Jesus went to the people on the margins. There isn’t always interest in the broader society about helping those in prison, but they are still God’s children,” he says. 

“Whether they are guilty or innocent, it is not for us to decide; it’s for them to see that they are still loved by God. All of us have our weaknesses—none of us are perfect,” Fr James adds.  While chaplains provide spiritual care for Catholics, their ministry extends to inmates of all faiths and backgrounds. “We’re there for Muslims, Hindus, Christians, agnostics, and atheists—we’re there for everybody, just like Christ was.” 

Building trust  

The work of a prison chaplain is not confined to spiritual guidance; it involves building meaningful relationships based on trust and care. Caroline, who is a trained psychotherapist, spiritual director and a chaplain at the Mid North Coast Correctional Centre, explains that their day-to-day work varies. From leading chapel services to responding to the ever-changing dynamics of prison life, chaplains navigate challenges like lockdowns, mental health crises, and shifts in prison policy. “It’s about responding to situations as they arise,” Caroline says. “No day is ever the same, and some days can be particularly challenging, but we are there to listen and provide care as needed.”  

Building trust with inmates is vital, as it opens the door for deeper conversations about faith and healing. Karine describes how inmates, over time, begin to seek her out, often after hearing from others about the support she offers. She runs programs that focus on positive lifestyle changes and personal growth. “It’s about being humble, caring, compassionate and showing them dignity,” Karine says.

Their work is also a great support to the incredible services offered by counsellors, psychologists and other allied health professionals. “We can do everything to support inmates while they are inside, but if there is no mental health assistance, they will always be traumatised and will never heal.” 

The importance of building trust also extends to pastoral care of the staff. This is a fundamental part of the prison chaplain’s work as they minister as part of a team and seek to support all other members of the team. 

Prison chaplains (L to R): Fr James, Caroline, Karine, and Teresa

The challenges  

The ministry is not without its difficulties. Chaplains can encounter challenges, such as staff shortages and procedural delays. These obstacles can be frustrating, especially when they disrupt the relationships they’re trying to nurture. “In the past, I’ve organised to see an inmate, but due to a prison lockdown, I’ve had to cancel it,” Karine explains. “It’s hard to build bonds when this happens.”  

Fr James agrees, noting how busy the prison environment can be with many programs and work opportunities available for inmates as part of their rehabilitation. “There is lots happening in the jail all the time, which is why we need to remind ourselves why we’re there and who we’re there for. Working together as a team is essential and there are so many wonderful and dedicated people working for the greater good of our society.” 

Despite these challenges, Caroline adds that chaplains find gratification in their work, knowing they are making a difference in the lives of inmates. “When you make that connection with people and you see how grateful they are, it is fulfilling.” 

Looking after wellbeing 

The emotional and spiritual toll of prison chaplaincy can be significant, leading to Karine and Caroline learning to rely on their Catholic faith to sustain them.  “Vicarious trauma is very real,” Karine admits. “Praying has helped me with the angst and frustration. I try and help as many people as I can every day, but I am only one person.” 

Various opportunities for supporting each other are essential for fruitful ministry. Pastoral care of chaplains is provided through monthly pastoral supervision with an accredited and experienced pastoral supervisor. Other helpful supports include coffee catch-ups up with other chaplains at the Centre, state-side gatherings and meetings of prison chaplains, as well as the annual NSW Catholic Prison Chaplains Retreat and national online gatherings of Catholic prison chaplains. These forums are also important for the sharing of ideas and resources in order to improve the provision of chaplaincy services. 

Part of the ministry 

Our prison chaplains are so grateful for the prayers offered for their ministry by people throughout the Diocese and beyond. It is a great source of strength and for the chaplains in their daily work.  Parishioners in the southern Deanery have been most generous over the years in donating quality clothing for inmates upon their release, as well as donating resources for use during programs.  All parishes have generously supported this ministry over many years through their financial support of the Diocese’s charitable works. Without this support, the ministry would not be as fruitful as it is today. 

“I was in prison and you visited me.” Matthew 25:36