Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Deacon Steve Marks, along with 13 other men, brings Communion and the Word of God to individuals incarcerated in Jefferson County's jails. The ministry operates at the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections and the Jefferson County Hall of Justice. Deacon Marks has been involved in this work for over three decades.

The ministry centers on providing both the Eucharist and sacred Scripture to inmates. However, Deacon Marks noted that it is ideal for women ministers to serve female inmates and expressed hope that Catholic women would volunteer for this role.

A challenge arose two years ago when paper materials were banned from jails due to safety concerns. This led Deacon Marks to seek digital solutions for providing Scripture to inmates. An initiative by the jail ministry has allowed the New American Bible Revised Edition (NABRE) to be made available on Android tablets within the facilities, thanks to permission from U.S. bishops.

Deacon Marks encourages inmates not only to read the Bible but also to participate actively as lectors during weekly Communion services. He values their engagement, stating, "There are some excellent readers in there."

Despite the short-term nature of jail incarceration, which limits seeing long-term outcomes, since 2017 five men have been baptized and received first Holy Communion in these jails. "To see people that have failed start to make it is a blessing," he said.

Deacon Marks emphasized that jail ministry is an ongoing mission of the church: "We can never be done with this." Despite challenges such as a chaotic environment and obstacles for inmates attending services, he remains optimistic about the future of jail ministry.

Those interested in participating can contact him directly at 964-6966 or deacon.steve.marks@stalbert.org.