Chaplain Service Prison Ministry of Virginia Inc. is the official agency that provides chaplains to Virginia’s state prisons and juvenile correctional centers. Virginia is unique in that its prison chaplains are not state employees. They are not compensated by the state (i.e., no federal or state taxpayer monies are utilized) and they receive no state benefits such as health insurance or retirement.
The chaplains serve as prison pastors and religious program coordinators in 31 state adult prisons and at three state juvenile correctional centers. The chaplains conduct worship services, teach, counsel and coordinate the many volunteers who assist in ministering to the male, female and youthful offenders incarcerated in the state prison system.
The chaplains are supported by denominations, churches, foundations and individuals, as well as by some of the profits from the Department of Corrections’ commissary fund.
Chaplain Service is a registered charity with the Commonwealth of Virginia Campaign (CVC). The CVC code for Chaplain Service is 3002. This presents a unique opportunity for state employees from all of the various state agencies to support prison ministry and to help change lives and ensure safer communities. State employees are able to give a one-time donation to Chaplain Service or to give to the ministry throughout the year via payroll deduction. This year’s CVC campaign goes from Oct. 1 through Nov. 30. State employees should contact their agency/facility human resources officer for additional information.
Chaplains are essential to the Commonwealth of Virginia in that they ensure equal access to religious programming and services as required by the First Amendment and the federal RLUIPA (Religious Land Usage and Institutionalized Persons Act) law.
Churches or individuals that would like to contribute to this unique ministry can obtain additional information by calling 804.358.7650 or by visiting www.chaplainservice.org. Promotional pamphlets, a promotional DVD and/or presenters are available for your church, group or organization upon request.
Randy Myers, Chaplain Service Prison Ministry of Virginia