Kairos Prison Ministry, which has provided support and programs for over 10,000 individuals affected by incarceration across Australia, is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Source: Catholic Voice.
When Deborah Poulton’s sister went to prison, her world fell apart.
“I had no experience of that environment, and I was struggling,” she recalled.
“Kairos was already active in my parish, and they reached out to me. They didn’t try to solve my problems, but they listened and understood, because they’d been there, or knew someone who had. They helped me navigate the foreign world without judgment.”
Eighteen years later, Ms Poulton is now Kairos’ chief operating officer.
“I wanted to give back,” she said, “because I knew there were others like me, blindsided by the shock of a loved one going to jail.”
What began as a small, faith-driven movement has grown into a nationwide ministry that has transformed thousands of lives.
Kairos Inside supports men and women in prison, while Kairos Outside reaches out to women who have experienced the incarceration of a family member or close friend.
“We bring a message of hope,” volunteer Michael de Raadt said. “And for those who are in for a long time, hope is in short supply.”
Mr de Raadt joined Kairos Inside in 2018, drawn by its connection to the Cursillo movement, which he had been part of for years.
“It’s not the most attractive offer – to go into a prison,” he said. “But from a biblical point of view, we’re called to serve people in prison, and after doing it, it was quite enjoyable, actually.”
His work focuses on retreats for inmates, where participants are encouraged to reflect, share, and grow.
“There’s a fair bit of singing and joviality, and we get to know these guys reasonably well through a series of talks and discussions,” he said.
“Afterwards, we continue the journey, going back to support them as they try to continue their faith journey. It’s powerful to see these tough men, often heavily tattooed, singing Christian songs at the top of their voices. It’s transformational.”
This year, Kairos is celebrating 30 years of ministry in Australia, with more than 720 programs delivered at 50 correctional and community locations across the country, reaching more than 10,000 men, women, and youth.
“This celebration isn’t just looking back,” Ms Poulton said. “It’s a call to keep going.”
FULL STORY
Kairos Prison Ministry: 30 years of hope and transformation (By Veronika Cox, Catholic Voice)
