Prison

“Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them…” / Hebrews 13:3 /

The beginning...

The prison ministry began in 1997. The personal meetings with the prisoners are time for sharing and presentation of the Christian values. Every Sunday there is a service.

Today the church in the prison has more than 120 people. It is so exciting to see how these men are being changed how they are dedicating their life to Jesus. Although they are behind prison bars they feel free and they see the way in front of them. They testify for a new beginning in the life.

According to the restrictions they have, the prisoners can participate in official services and discussions.

As a chaplain Ivodor Kovachev has weekly personal meetings with the inmates. A team of young men dedicates his time for the prison ministry and develops relationships with inmates.

In 2004 ‘MISSION – SALVATION” started a Bible school in the prison in Sofia. In January 2005 is started a church in another prison, not far from Sofia – Kazichene where the prisoners don’t have so many restrictions.

“MISSION – SALVATION” ministry organizes educational classes for a better qualification and the inmates receive a diploma. This makes it easier for them to find a job when they leave the prison and to be involved in the social life.

GOALS:

The inmates to realize that they are accepted, loved and forgiven.

To preach the Gospel in the prisons in Bulgaria – transformation and new beginning..

Rising up of committed Christians among the inmates.

Through the Bible school in the prison to make it possible for the inmates to get to know the Word of God and to develop a Christian character.

Realization of projects that will help the inmates to be involved in the social life when they live the prison and which will give them direction to find a job. Support for the process of adaptation.

- Organizing of educational courses
- Christian concerts and movies

Social support for the inmates:

- Care for inmates – food, clothes.
- Support for their families and kids
- Establishing new churches in other prisons in the country
Building up of structures, which will help and support those who are on probation.