The Forgotten Mission Field: Inside Correctional Ministry | Evelyn Lemly | Behind and Beyond the Bars

This week we are joined by Evelyn Lemly, former president of CMCA and longtime leader of Kairos Prison Ministry, to share how she was called into correctional ministry and what she’s learned leading it for over a decade. She unpacks the far-reaching impact of incarceration on individuals and families, the role of forgiveness and belonging in true transformation, and why this often-overlooked mission field matters more than most realize. WATCH: https://youtu.be/Kdjxy68vgYM Learn More: https://kairosprisonministry.org TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro and Evelyn's Background 03:04 Journey to Correctional Ministry 06:16 What Is Kairos Prison Ministry? 10:00 Defining and Measuring Success 13:07 Family Reconciliation and Impact 18:26 Forgiveness and Theory of Change 23:02 Can People Really Change? 28:12 Transformation Stories & Community Impact 32:30 Volunteers and Their Transformation 35:46 Expanding Ministry with Resources 41:00 Raising Awareness and Breaking Stereotypes 46:02 How to Get Involved in Prison Ministry 47:14 The Power of Simply Showing Up 48:08 Closing Reflections and Gratitude #correctionalministry #prisonministry #chaplaincy #faithinpractice #criminaljustice #reentry #secondchances #churchleadership #christianpodcast #ministrylife #socialimpact --- Are you in correctional ministries or have been curious about serving and don’t know where to start? Correctional ministries, one of the most important ministries of our times- is about bringing hope, dignity, and transformation to men and women impacted by incarceration, their families, and the communities they return to. This podcast exists to equip, encourage, and connect those called to this work, so their ministry flows from compassion, wisdom, and lived faith. Join Jeff Shafer as he explores what it means to serve in one of the most rewarding and challenging ministries, through honest conversations and stories of transformation - helping to equip those who are called for restoration of lives and educating others in their role in redemption, and second chances. --- FOLLOW ➡️ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cmcaintl ➡️ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CMCAInternational ➡️ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/correctional-ministries-and-chaplains-association-565777125 --- Correctional Ministries and Chaplains Association (CMCA) is a professional organization, founded in May 2011, through which Christians can celebrate their faith and passion for correctional ministry with other individuals, organizations, and churches. © 2026 Correctional Ministries and Chaplains Association. Affiliated with the Correctional Ministries Institute of the Wheaton College Billy Graham Center.