A small group of volunteers from St. Aloysius Church in Pewee Valley, Kentucky, visit the Kentucky Correctional Institute for Women each week to offer a Catholic communion service and, occasionally, Mass for inmates. The prison houses more than 700 women, but only a handful attend the weekly services held in the institution’s interfaith chapel.

Karen Rogers, one of five laywomen from St. Aloysius active in this ministry, has volunteered for six years. She described the purpose of their visits as providing an opportunity “where they can feel free to express themselves and praise God and just let it go — bring it to the altar, and let it go.” Attendance varies from one or two inmates some weeks to as many as a dozen on others.

Nikki Armstrong, another volunteer who joined after COVID-19 restrictions eased, explained that outreach is limited by prison rules: “They have to come to us — unfortunately, we can’t go out and encourage people to come.” Despite these boundaries, Armstrong said their presence makes a difference: “reminds them that they aren’t alone, and that they can always turn to God and that the church won’t forget them.”

Inmates actively participate in services by serving as lectors or musicians. On rare occasions when volunteers cannot attend, inmates lead readings and music themselves. Rogers noted that sharing talents helps participants experience support: “They get to share their own talents. And I think they experience God’s love through one another. That’s how a lot of us experience God’s love — through our relationships.”

The ministry is open to both Catholic and non-Catholic inmates; several regular attendees are considering joining the Catholic Church. According to Rogers, appreciation from participants is common: “They say that every time — ‘Thank you for coming. Thank you for being here.’ ”

Rogers also spoke about how volunteering has affected her personally during her cancer diagnosis and treatment: “I just felt like they were making a difference in mine,” she said. “These girls prayed for me...they’re just supporting me through it all.”

Armstrong echoed similar sentiments about personal growth: “I’m always learning something. The girls who participate in prison are very good resources, too,” she said.

The group is seeking additional volunteers; participation does not require membership at St. Aloysius Church. Those interested can contact Karen Rogers at the parish office or email Deacon Denny Nash or Deacon Steve Marks for more information about incarceration ministry opportunities within the Archdiocese of Louisville.