This module provides promotional resources to help both adults and children be aware of the mission potential of WELS Prison Ministry and to cultivate concern for the lost. Church or school leaders may use them as part of a mission project where offerings will be designated for this work. These promotional resources can also lay the foundation for preparing congregation members to serve the people in a local correctional facility with the Word, or to mentor people returning to the community from incarceration.

Resources include:

• Bible lessons based on the book of Philemon designed for use in a Sunday School or Lutheran elementary school setting. These lessons focus on the apostle Paul’s encouragement to Philemon to welcome back Onesimus no longer as a slave, but as a brother in Christ. This encouragement is applied to situations children might face now, such as the opportunity to make a child with an incarcerated parent feel welcome at church or school, or in the future, such as welcoming a former inmate. Lessons are included for four grade levels (PreK-K, 1-2, 3-4, 5-6).
• Worship planning resources that a pastor or worship leader may use in developing a “Prison Ministry” Sunday to bring awareness to this fruitful and joyful ministry. These worship helps are designed for the 5th Sunday after Pentecost in Series B. They include a sample sermon, prayer and hymn suggestions, quotes from inmates and volunteers, and the like. The future release of more worship help documents are planned for other Sundays in the church year that incorporate readings from the other available lectionary series.

More resources coming – please check back.