The Prison Ministry Commission of the Tamil Nadu Bishops’ Council, functioning under the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), has taken a significant step in collaboration with the Tamil Nadu State Prison Department.
The Government of Tamil Nadu recently appointed six Probation Officers — Mr. Moovendhan, Mr. Balasubramanian, Ms. Subash, Ms. Sripriya, Ms. Yamuna Priya, and Ms. Kavi Bharathi. At the request of the State Prison Department, the Prison Ministry of Tamil Nadu has been entrusted with providing specialized training to these newly appointed officers.
The first training session was held on 29 October 2025 at the Santhome Pastoral Centre, Chennai. During the session, the ministry shared its rich experience and impactful works in rehabilitation and prisoner welfare.
According to Rev. Fr. Gilbert Joe, State Coordinator, this collaboration marks a significant milestone:
“We are delighted to work hand-in-hand with the newly appointed officers in the rehabilitation mission. It is a joy to see this ministry being recognized and valued by the government.”
For the Prison Ministry, this service echoes the words of Christ:
“I was in prison, and you visited me.”
The ministry’s mission includes providing spiritual and practical support to prisoners and their families through counseling, medical assistance, education support, prison visits, and rehabilitation for released inmates. Their work aims to rebuild lives, restore families, and reintegrate individuals into society with dignity.
The Tamil Nadu Prison Ministry is led by:
- Most Rev. Bishop Ambrose Pichaimuthu – Chairman
- Rev. Fr. Gilbert Joe – State Coordinator
- Mr. Jesu Raja – State Secretary
- Sr. Stella FSJ – Treasurer
- Sr. Albera FMM – Deputy Secretary
- Mr. Gasper – Deputy Secretary
With active coordinators in all 18 dioceses serving in over 130 prisons across Tamil Nadu, the ministry continues its mission with the support of clergy and hundreds of dedicated volunteers.
The newly trained Probation Officers will play a key role in assisting prisoners, understanding their needs, guiding them psychologically and socially, and supporting their rehabilitation journey — in collaboration with both the state system and the Church’s ministry.
This partnership marks a new chapter in faith-driven social reform, combining compassion, professional guidance, and committed service for the upliftment of prisoners and their families.
Report by: Rev. Fr. Gilbert Joe