
Transforming Lives Through the Love and Grace of Jesus Christ
What began as a single step of faith has grown into a global movement of hope, healing, and restoration. As we celebrate this milestone, we honor every life changed and every heart renewed.
One Ministry. Three Programs.
A Legacy of Transformation.
Kairos Prison Ministry began in 1976 as a small group of faithful believers answered the call to serve those impacted by incarceration. Rooted in the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ, the ministry was founded on the belief that no one is beyond redemption and that transformation is possible through grace, accountability, and community. What started as a single weekend inside a prison has grown into an international ministry, bringing hope, healing, and spiritual renewal to incarcerated individuals, their families, and those who serve them.
The Timeline

Evelyn Lemly / CEO
One ministry expressed through three powerful programs
For five decades, we have witnessed the power of God’s love reaching into places many would overlook, bringing hope, healing, and true transformation. Through every Kairos program, every volunteer, and every open heart, lives have been changed in ways only He could orchestrate.
As one ministry expressed through three powerful programs, Kairos Inside, Kairos Outside, and Kairos Torch, we are able to reach men, women, families, and youth with the message of Christ’s love. Together, we are committed to our mission of changing hearts, transforming lives, and impacting the world, and we see that mission lived out every day. The impact extends far beyond prison walls, touching families, communities, and all who say yes to this calling.
As we celebrate 50 years of ministry, we are reminded that this work has never been ours alone, it is God moving faithfully through His people. And we believe with confidence that He is not finished yet. What lies ahead is greater still, as more hearts are reached, more chains are broken, and more lives are restored.
With your continued support and willingness to serve, the mission will only grow stronger. Together, we step forward in faith, trusting that God will continue to do immeasurably more, bringing light into darkness and writing new stories of redemption for generations to come.
Life Transformation
“I made a mess of my life and ended up in prison. My family abandoned me and society had written me off. I was worthless, and I felt that way. Life had lost all meaning for me – I was like a balloon with nothing inside. But these Kairos men fed me with the word of God, and I now hunger after Him. I will be forever grateful to Kairos for showing me that the way to freedom is through the cross of Christ.”
-Kairos Inside Participant
“I’ve had kids who were in and out of prison since they were juveniles, and I thought it was all my fault. I hated myself and I thought God hated me for making them like they are. This weekend has freed me from every ounce of guilt.”
– Kairos Outside Guest
“I went to Kairos and I thought I’d check it out for at least ’one day.’ Well, turned out the weekend went fast and led me to follow Jesus instead of running away from Him! Still going strong! Just wish that the weekend would not end… also did not know of all the people in the world that were praying for us this weekend. As I read them, they brought tears to my eyes, making me cry. I felt that I was loved again”
– Kairos Torch Participant
Did Kairos impact your life?
Share your story with us. We cherish every testimony and celebrate every transformed moment.








