Prison Ministry Pen Pal Program for Adults

This program is coordinated by The Order of Malta - American Association, a worldwide, lay, religious order of the Roman Catholic Church, which seeks to glorify God by promoting the sanctification of each member through his or her work with the sick and the poor and witness of the Catholic faith. The Order carries out its charitable works for the sick, the needy and refugees without distinction of religion, race, origin and age. Read more about the Order of Malta here.


Are you an adult who likes to write? Do you like to inspire others?

The goal of writing to a person in prison is to promote a Christ-centered  correspondence that lets each insider know they are not forgotten. Pen Pals help prisoners stay aware of the world outside of prison.Through letters, we can show compassion, caring and understanding and help improve an inmate’s self-esteem. 
Pen Pals commit to writing at least one letter per month for at least one year.

While there are some guidelines (see below,) this program is one of hope. In writing, we are, in a way, ”visiting” someone in prison, as our Lord asked us to do in Mathew 25:36.

A few things to know:

• Other than your first name, never offer personal information about your family, friends, workplace or address.
• Do not send money or gifts.
• Do not send photos.
• Do not give legal advice, even if you are a lawyer.
• Do not promise anything you cannot deliver.
• The return address on letters to inmates is a P.O. box provided by the program. Letters from inmates are sent to the same box, then forwarded to you.

Through this program, we can help distract inmates from their daily hardships and instill a positive attitude from the hopeful messages we send. Most importantly, letters tell inmates someone cares. Studies show that corresponding with the incarcerated reduces the recidivism rate, which says we are saving some souls!

Many inmates receive no letters or visitors, so this is a wonderful way to make a difference! Use the resources below to get involved.

This program is for adults only, please.

Program Introduction  Guidelines & Acknowledgement  Letter Writing Tips 
Sample Letter   How to Send a Letter  Letterhead