How to Speak with Prison Staff and Invite them to St. Peters Lutheran Church
“We’re excited to have you in our community! St. Peter’s is very eager to support the mission at Thomson. Can I help you find anything in the community? Are there any business or services which have been hard to locate?”
“We’re glad that Thomson is bringing economic value to our community. We want to give you something of value in return: God's love in Jesus Christ. I would like to invite you hear that Word on Sunday as my guest. I'll introduce you to people who might be able to help you settle into the community."
"Have you found a church home? I would be excited if you would visit my church on Sunday. Our church is eager to support the mission of Thomson any way we can. Is there a way we can help your family?"
“I’ve been told that the Bureau of Prisons has a saying: 'Always follow policy.' You know, the church I attend does the same thing. We seek to follow the written Word. That leads to safety and security forever. May I give you a copy of the Small Catechism? It's like policy: it explains in simple language what we believe and teach from the Bible."
"I would be glad to give you a phonebook. Local businesses are going online, but the phonebook can be a real help in the meantime. May I share a Small Catechism with you also? It's like a mini directory of the Bible; its teachings are easy to look up by subject, just like the Yellow Pages."
"Our pastor, Mark, uses sign language often as he leads worship. It’s really easy to learn basic signs just by watching him. You know, if you learned a few basic signs while you worship, you might be able use them with deaf inmates. That could be a real help. I think you would enjoy seeing Pastor Mark do this; I would like you join us for worship on Sunday."
“I’ve heard that the prison puts a lot of emphasis on training and mentoring. That's important. You have to develop new leaders to promote as others retire. At our church, that’s the way we look at Bible study. We train one another in God’s Word so we can bring God's love to others as we move into positions of leadership at home and in the community. I would be honored if you would visit and observe our Bible classes. St. Peter’s is a really welcoming church.”