The deadline to RSVP for the one day event is September 9
NEWS RELEASE
August 26, 2026
Contact: Meagen Farrell, Communications & Social Concerns Director, (330) 744-8451 ext. 275, mfarrell@youngstowndiocese.org
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – The Diocese of Youngstown is hosting its annual Prison Ministry volunteer retreat and training as part of a larger campaign to increase the number of Catholics engaged in prison ministry in all six counties. The one day training event is an opportunity to learn about a range of prison and jail ministries in our diocese, including visitation and letter-writing. Both current and prospective volunteers are welcome to come, including parish ministers and clergy.
Training takes place Saturday, September 19, 2026 from 10:00 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. at Immaculate Conception Hall, 251 West Spruce St., Ravenna, OH 44266 (The Hall is separate from the church). Lunch will be included, but please notify us of any dietary restrictions. Mass will be offered at Immaculate Conception Church (St. Katharine Drexel Parish) at 4pm.
Jesus reminds us in Matthew 25:35-36: “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.”
You can watch testimonials on why prison ministry is important from Deacon Tim DeFrange and Andrea Paventi. The deadline to RSVP is September 9. Current prison ministry volunteers will be invited and asked to RSVP through their site coordinators. Prospective volunteers please RSVP to Meagen Farrell at mfarrell@youngstowndiocese.org or (330) 744-8451 x275.
