What We Do
Our Prison Pen Pal Ministry reaches out to people in prison living on North Carolina’s death row. These individuals are isolated and sometimes estranged from family and friends, and thus our ministry provides compassion and connectedness. Even receiving a short postcard and hearing their name called at mail call can mean so much to the men on death row.
Pen pals commit to correspond with individuals who have requested letters and determine the frequency with which they write. If support is needed, there are three ministry meetings throughout the year and the leadership team is always available through phone/email.
The most beautiful part of belonging to this ministry is it allows you to deepen your spirituality and respect for ALL human life. We also offer occasional gatherings for prayer, training, and support in this rewarding and challenging ministry.
How to Get Involved
Contact the Pen Pal Ministry through our email! - sfapenpal@gmail.com
Join our Email List!
Ministry Leaders | Catherine Maher, Vicki Jack, and Ellen Zaytoun
Frequently Asked Questions about Prison Pen Pal Ministry
Q: I thought there haven't been executions in years. Why are there still people on Death Row?
A: Due to lawsuits, there has not been an execution in North Carolina since 2006 because of a moratorium on the death penalty. However, the death penalty is still being sought in some trials.
Q: How many people are on Death Row?
A: One hundred and thirty-seven people are on North Carolina’s Death Row.
Q: How many members are there in the St. Francis Pen Pal Ministry?
A: Sixty-six members write to their pen pal on North Carolina’s death row.
Q: Do I have to give my home address?
A: Many members choose to use their home address when writing to their pen pal, but others use the church’s address. When a letter arrives at church, the pen pal is notified so that they can come pick it up.
Q: How often would I write to my pen pal on death row?
A: Most write to their pen pal on death row once per month.
