What is IPCA Europe?
IPCA Europe is one of the six regions in IPCA, International Prison Chaplains Association. Together we are a network of prison chaplains working with inmates in Europe and the Middle East. We organise conferences and support and learn from one another. To be able to meet collegues from different countries and cultures also helps us better understand inmates from differing cultures. Prisons are often a very muticultural environment, including both inmates and staff working within the walls, to have a support organisation for us is therefore, very important.
Being a prison chaplain, can be a very lonely job, especially if you are the only chaplain in the prison. It can also be difficult in the churches that see this role as something they should not get involved with. IPCA helps to lift our work, and reminds us that it is truly Gods work;
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me. Matthew 25:34-36