Orthodox Churches Unite for Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday on July 26
The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States designated July 26, 2026, as Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday. Hundreds of Orthodox churches across jurisdictions are joining together to highlight the work of the Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry, which serves incarcerated individuals and their families.
Hundreds of Orthodox churches across the United States are joining together on July 26, 2026, for Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday. The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops designated the date to raise awareness about the spiritual care offered to incarcerated men and women and their families.
The Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry has been operating for nearly three decades. Its programs have expanded well beyond traditional prison visits. The Storybook Connections program reunites incarcerated parents with their children by sending picture books home with recordings of parents reading aloud from inside prison.
The OCPM Clergy Corps connects Orthodox priests and deacons committed to visiting people in facilities near them. The ministry has also partnered with St. Tikhon's Seminary to offer the first Certificate Program in Prison Ministry for Orthodox clergy and laity.
"I pray every day for the first time in my life," said one man currently incarcerated. "When you and OCPM are supporting me and making me feel cared for, I feel comforted and empowered to do my part."
Another participant described a years-long process of finding peace. "I eventually regained inner peace, humility, happiness, compassion, sympathy and grace again," he said. "I thank God for not giving up on me."
OCPM is an agency of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States. The ministry serves both Orthodox and non-Orthodox individuals in prison, offering forgiveness, reconciliation, and spiritual care. Churches interested in participating in Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday can download resources at theocpm.org.
