Why I volunteer in prison ministry

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ORLANDO | I recently attended the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Southeast Regional Conference in Atlanta. Like reading a good book or watching an inspiring movie, I came away eager to share some of the lessons I learned.
Isabel Darby, southeast regional vice president, set the tone with a powerful presentation on authentic faith and compassion. Quoting Scripture, she reminded us “faith without works is dead.” She described our encounters with neighbors in need as sacred encounters rather than transactional ones.
One thought especially stayed with me. She said our visits are often where hope is born. Hope is the conviction that God is present in every situation. Our goal should be to leave our neighbors knowing they are not alone and that they matter.

During the conference, I learned about programs throughout the southeast that are transforming lives and serving vulnerable adults, children, families and communities. For those willing to invest a little time, talent and treasure, these gatherings provide tremendous value. Not only do they expand our knowledge and understanding of effective ministry, but they also reignite our Vincentian spirit and deepen our commitment to serving Christ in the poor.
I was also honored to present a workshop entitled How to Start a Comprehensive and Holistic Prison Ministry. Preparing for that workshop caused me to reflect on a question I am often asked: Why do I volunteer with St. Peter Claver Prison Ministry?
I retired from UPS after 31 years. I completed 32 years in the Army National Guard, retiring as a major after serving a combat tour in Iraq. I could easily spend my retirement focusing on myself. Instead, I choose to spend my time serving others.
Why? Because I believe God has a purpose for every life.
Over the years, I’ve learned no one should be defined by their worst day, their worst decision, or their greatest failure. We are all imperfect people in need of God’s mercy.
The older I get, the more I realize that humility begins when we recognize our own shortcomings before judging someone else’s. That is why prison ministry speaks so deeply to me.
When I walk into a correctional institution, I don’t see inmates. I see sons and daughters of God. I see people who have made mistakes, just as all of us have, but who are searching for hope, forgiveness, and a chance to rebuild their lives.
I believe in restorative justice because it reflects the Gospel. Jesus did not come to condemn. He came to restore. He healed broken relationships, forgave sinners, and offered redemption to those whom society had written off. Even on the cross, He extended mercy to the good thief.

If Jesus could see the dignity in a condemned man, shouldn’t we?
Through St. Peter Claver Prison Ministry, I have witnessed incredible transformations. I’ve seen faith rekindled. I’ve seen men take responsibility for their actions. I’ve seen lives redirected toward purpose and hope. I’ve also seen something else. I’ve seen volunteers transformed.
The truth is that every time I enter prison, I leave with far more than I brought in. I am reminded of God’s mercy. I am reminded every human being has value. I am reminded hope is stronger than despair.
One of the principles I try to live by comes from Matthew Kelly’s ‘The Generosity Habit’. Every day, I look for opportunities to give. Sometimes it’s a kind word. Sometimes it’s encouragement. Sometimes it’s one of the little Jesus figurines I carry and give to people to remember Christ is with them.
Prison ministry is simply an extension of that habit of generosity.
As Christians, we are called to give our time, talent and treasure. Some people mentor. Some teach. Some pray. Some donate. Some help returning citizens find housing, employment, and support. Every contribution matters because every life matters.
My baptism calls me to be more than a believer. It calls me to be a disciple.
For me, St. Peter Claver Prison Ministry is where faith becomes action.
I volunteer because I believe in second chances. I volunteer because I believe every person possesses God-given dignity. I volunteer because I believe redemption is possible. Most importantly, I volunteer because I believe Christ is present in every person we serve. And if we truly believe that, then answering God’s call is not merely an option.
It’s our responsibility. It’s our privilege. It’s our opportunity to help restore lives, strengthen families, and bring hope where it is needed most. That’s why I volunteer. And I invite you to join me.
Carlos Benitez is the director of St. Vincent de Paul’s St. Peter Claver Prison Ministry. For more information on how to volunteer, contact him at carlos@spcpmorlando.org or Deacon Joe Gassman at jgassman@orlandodiocese.org.