The Mission Covenant Team has been in contact with the chaplain at Ventress Correctional Facility in Clayton to explore ways our congregation can be in ministry to its 1,200 inmates.  There are several ways we can be of service.

The mission team will provide a set of hymnals or songbooks using its budgeted funds.  The prison also needs devotional materials and Bibles, especially large-print versions.  These do not have to be new as long as they are in good condition.  All books must have soft covers – no hardback books or spiral bindings are allowed.  Many of our members have devotional books they are no longer using, and these will make a difference to the men at Ventress.
Many times prisoners arrive without basic toiletries.  They need toothpaste, bar soap, and powder deodorant -- no roll-ons or anything else that contains alcohol.  (The prison supplies toothbrushes, so these do not need to be donated.)
The chaplain also expressed a desire for an electric keyboard to use in worship services. If anyone has a keyboard you’re no longer using, please consider donating it.
The mission team seeks to provide for “the least of these,” as Jesus instructed us to do.  We will be collecting devotional books, Bibles, and toiletries through April 30 in bins set up in the upstairs parlor, the downstairs elevator lobby, and the office.  Thank you for your help.