Greetings in the Name of Christ from Lacombe, Alberta! My wife Doris and I have three children, all grown up, and six grandchildren. Many of you who know us know that Doris and I were converted later in life, and find great joy in being Reformed Christians. I was called by the Redeemer URC to the work of Prison Pastor for Redemption Prison. My ministry will cover the Prairie Region (Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan), and will include visiting incarcerated men who have signed up, and are working, on the Bible Studies provided in prisons by RPM.

Initially, I will be visiting Federal Prisons, but will be trying to get into the doors of Provincial Prisons as well. There are 8 Correctional Facilities in Alberta alone! There will be opportunities to lead chapels, and make additional contacts.

I accepted this position after serving Christ in the capacity of Minister of the Word and Sacraments in the Parkland Reformed Church in Ponoka.  Before that I pastored the Faith Reformed Church of Telkwa, BC for 3 ½ wonderful years. And so, when I received this call I considered that the Lord could use the experience and knowledge gained through preaching and teaching, counseling and visiting.

So why am I excited about this new calling? Because I share the vision and compassion of those involved in Redemption Prison Ministry: that incarceration provides an opportunity for the prisoner to reflect on his life and choices; and hopefully makes them more open to listen to the promises of the gospel. The men and women in prisons are separated from their families and loved ones, and everything normal. Time stops, and one loses all control over his/her life.

The good thing is that, in the providence of God, this new situation confronts the prisoner with the reality of the consequences of their choices. As a Prison Pastor I hope to set before all the God of mercy and grace; the God of 2nd chances; the God who rescues, restores, and rehabilitates. And so please remember this work in your prayers. May God bless you and keep you. 

Pastor Mitch Ramkissoon
mitchram@telus.net