Prison Ministry Outreach at Shakopee Women's Prison |
FAQ's
What is the Shakopee Women's Prison like?
It's a surprisingly attractive place, clean and well kept, surrounded by a low hedge.
What is life like for the women there?
Although the facility is very nice, the women are not allowed to touch one another or to be touched, which makes for terrible human isolation. The prison environment houses women that are isolated from society and the women who are living there are largely forgotten and discarded, but to the Lord, they are precious loved ones for whom Jesus went to the cross.
What do Grace Church women do when they go to the prison?
A team of 7-10 women from Grace Church goes to the Minnesota Correctional Facility on the second Sunday morning of each month to conduct a worship service in the gym at the Shakopee Prison. We share music, a Bible message, and pray with the women in small groups.
How are Grace Church women received by the prisoners?
Approximately 50-60 women attend our service because they want to be there. Some are Christian believers. Grace Church women feel welcomed and appreciated in this atmosphere.
What are the women like? Are they dangerous?
The women in prison are like us in many ways. The line that separates us from them, is one of the law. We do not know what crimes they have committed in the past, but it is clear that the atmosphere in the prison is very tightly controlled. The guards and staff are never very far away and Grace women are trained in advance on prison protocol and safety procedures.
Why are we going there?
- We are going there to experience dependence on Jesus Christ in our own lives.
- We are going there because we want to see and touch Jesus. (Matthew 25: 35-40)
- We are going there to learn to speak for Him by doing it.
- We are going there to experience the power of prayer for problems with no easy answers.
What can we really do for them?
We can help them know, feel, and understand that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life! (John 14:6) In so doing, we help ourselves grow up in Him.
Are one time visits ever allowed?
Twice each year new people can visit. If you want to join the Grace Women Prison Team for a one-time visit, contact Deb at 952-949-9744 or 952-949-9787.
Can I join the Ministry team on a regular basis?
The team welcomes new members (male and female). There is a training protocol required by the correctional system. It involves 3 hours of training at the prison each year. Contact Deb at 952-949-9744 or 952-949-9787 for complete details.