Women’s prison retreat looking for volunteers

Archbishop Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann delivers a homily during Mass at the Topeka Correctional Facility in 2022. LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

TOPEKA — The Topeka Correctional Facility, a women’s prison, will host its second Kolbe Prison Ministries retreat for those who are incarcerated there from Oct. 17-19.

Women are needed to volunteer as table leaders for discussions during the retreat, as well as to work in logistics by helping set up, prepare and serve meals, and load out afterward.

Volunteers will be finalized by Aug. 29. No experience with prison ministry is necessary, nor does the retreat commit volunteers to regular prison ministry.

Deacon Timothy Ruoff reads the Gospel during a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann at the Topeka Correctional Facility during a visit in 2022. LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

A background check will be completed, along with in-person and Zoom calls with the retreat team prior to the retreat.

“As the Catholic liaison for ministry and faith formation at the Topeka Correctional Facility,” said Deacon Timothy Ruoff, “I have seen firsthand the tremendous impact our volunteers can make with those who are incarcerated when we allow ourselves to see others with the eyes of Christ.

“It is a privilege to serve these women who have experienced a difficult life but are hungry for Jesus.

“I invite you to serve and to share Christ with these women during this special Kolbe retreat named after St. Maximilian Kolbe, the patron of prisoners.”