Understanding Our Prison Ministry
The TETEM Prison Ministry is a comprehensive initiative that aims to address the spiritual, emotional and practical needs of inmates, ultimately fostering their transformation and equipping them to live fulfilling lives upon their release. It aims to offer a path to new beginnings and wholeness through biblical teaching, support, and encouragement. The ministry centered in preaching the gospel to people confined in cells or prison custody with sole aim of leading and winning such persons to Christ. Our preachers and ministers in these regards must preach the gospel with the aim of reconciling these ones back to God. Example of this form of evangelism is seen in Acts of the apostles’ chapter 16: 23-24.
Mission Statement
The TETEM Prison Ministry aim in preaching the gospel of Christ to inmates confined in cells or prison custody with the sole aim of LEADING and WINNING such persons to Christ. Through persistence and consistence encouragement and engagement with the gospel, we strive to create a welcoming environment where inmates can be discipled and natured spiritually, in order to explore useful potential to their world in reverential fear of God having gain freedom through our supportive means and program.
Here’s a more detailed look at our Prison Ministry’s key aspects:
- Spiritual Guidance and Transformation:
- The Word of God: The ministry utilizes the teaching and preaching of the Word of God as a tool for transformation, offering a message of hope and redemption to inmates.
- New Birth: A core tenet of the Church’s belief system is the concept of “new birth,” where individuals are united in the body of Christ through faith. The ministry seeks to facilitate this spiritual rebirth within the prison setting.
- Biblical Teaching: Our Prison Ministry programs often incorporate biblical teachings, helping inmates understand the basic biblical principles such as repentance, holiness, faith, giving, forgiveness, salvation, reconciliation etc.
- Support and Encouragement:
- Community Building: The ministry fosters a sense of community among inmates, providing a supportive environment where they can connect with others who are also seeking spiritual transformation.
- Addressing Trauma: Recognizing that inmates may have experienced trauma, the ministry offers emotional support and counseling to help them heal and process past experiences.
- Practical Assistance: In addition to spiritual guidance, the ministry also aims to provide practical assistance to inmates, such material support, job placement resources or support for family reunification based on the availability of information.
- Addressing the Root of Oppression:
- Liberation and emancipation from Oppression: The ministry’s mandate emphasizes liberation and freedom from oppression, recognizing that inmates may have been victims of various forms of oppression and injustice.
- Destiny and Potential: The ministry seeks to help inmates understand their potential and purpose in life, encouraging them to embrace their God-given gifts and talents.
- ocus on Reintegration:
- Preparation for Release: The ministry provides resources and support to prepare inmates for their eventual release back into society, helping them develop the skills and mindset necessary to live a successful and productive life.
- Follow-up Support: The ministry often provides ongoing support and mentorship to former inmates as they navigate their transition back into their communities and town.
Getting Involving and Support
Supporting the TETEM Prison Ministry involves offering practical help like volunteering, donating resources, and advocating for policy changes, while impacting inmates through spiritual and social support. This support can lead to improved rehabilitation, reduced recidivism, and positive social change for both inmates and families.
How to Support the Prison Ministry
- Volunteer: Offer your time to be part of the team in leading Bible studies, facilitate workshop, mentor inmates, or assists with other ministry activities.
- Donate: Provide financial supports, resources like Bible, or materials for educational or vocational programs.
- Advocate: Support fair policies and reforms within the criminal justice system.
- Pray: Offer prayers for the inmates, their families, and those working in prison ministry.
- Welcome Families: Extend a warm welcome to families of incarcerated individuals, offering support and resources.
