Prison Volunteer Required

A Catholic volunteer is required at Christchurch Men’s Prison to assist the chaplaincy team to support Catholic men in their spiritual needs.

The person we seek will have knowledge of Catholic beliefs and some pastoral experience.

Might you be called to serve in this ministry?

Christchurch Men’s Prison is located on the outskirts of Christchurch and has a muster of over 800 men,

The Diocese has a long history of providing chaplaincy to those in prison and is part of our corporal works of mercy.

The person we seek:

• Will be active in their faith
• Be endorsed by his / her parish priest
• Is able respond to the spiritual needs of Catholic men but has the ability to relate easily with offenders from any spiritual background
• Be available a few hours each week (days and hours by mutual agreement)
• On occasions provide Holy Communion

Full induction and training will be provided. Support will be provided by the chaplaincy team

It is likely the volunteer will begin in a group setting. Proven effective volunteers can progress to be an Assistant Chaplain which would allow them to meet one on one with offenders.

The Department of Corrections require screening of all those who work in a prison. This involves a Police Vet / Ministry of Justice clearance and drug testing.

For more information contact Mike Stopforth, Bishop’s Pastoral Office. Email mstopforth@cdoc.nz or phone 027 5398 542