“When did we see you in jail? When you came to visit the least of my brothers and sisters you came to visit me.” Matthew 26.39"

An oasis in the midst of the courts, a state prison, and the Milwaukee County Jail, St Ben’s is a welcoming, safe place for those involved in the criminal justice system. Chaplains from St Ben’s offer prayers, a listening ear, help with needed resources, and hope for the future. They make a real difference in the lives of many during incarceration and after release.

George knew he couldn’t go back to his old life of drugs and hanging out with the wrong people in the wrong environment. He hastened to those who came to help him in the jail with their encouragement, prayers and support.

While serving many years in prison for a heinous crime, he was determined to follow a new path. Education in prison, drug and mental health programs, and determination to follow a new path upon release were the answers.

Today, years later, he’s happily married, a devoted father to three children, and has a good job. His home in the country is filled with good times for this close, stable family. George is a true inspiration to ex-offenders who want to change their lives.

Tony, recently out of jail, is not giving back to the community by helping others who, like himself, have serious mental health problems. He is employed as a peer support specialist and is a role model who has gone full circle.

Gary, once a serious drug addict, is leading a happy, productive life with his wife and three little girls. There are stories of success that are the result, in large part, of people who care.

RETREATS
St Ben’s Chaplains make a difference in our Milwaukee County Jail with visits and retreats. For many years Chaplains have been holding religious retreats three times annually for women in jail. Entitled “Listening to the Spirit through Scripture,” these retreats offer hope for the future and the listening ears of prayer guides. Some of these relationships continue after release and have made a real difference in some tragic lives.

DISCERN JAIL CHAPLAINCY
Many called by the Holy Spirit have prayed about being a jail volunteer. A program is in place to help Spirit-filled people in this discernment.

Brian Braun, Capuchin

Deacon Tony Monfre

Deacon Ralph Wisniewski

FACILITATE SEMINARY STUDENT - SOCIETAL MINISTRY
We do facilitate the jail experience with seminary students from St Francis Seminary. The students interact inside the jail. They meet and share face to face with the incarcerated. We will work with any seminary interested in this ministry

SPEAKERS BUREAU
We will be happy to share our jail experiences with any church organization, fraternal group, or any focus group.

For further information on any of these St Ben’s Jail ministry programs contact Deacon Ralph Wisniewski at WisniewskiR@archmil.org