“LISTEN,
LISTEN, LOVE, LOVE”
KAIROS OUTSIDE is designed to support the
families of men and women who are, or have been incarcerated in the
country’s State and Federal correctional facilities, including
county jails and other offender programs.
The spouses, parents, other relatives and
friends of the incarcerated often “do time” along with their
relatives/friends. It is important for them to know that they are
not alone and there is a Christian Community that cares about them.
The KAIROS OUTSIDE weekend provides a safe environment with
Christian people who care.
During this weekend, the Guests will have a
chance to interact with other women who are in similar situations
and learn how to form small groups of support thereby giving them
strength in their life journey. The purpose of KAIROS OUTSIDE is to
demonstrate God’s grace and love through Christian support for women
who have relatives/friends who are or have been incarcerated.
COMMONLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
What Happens at KAIROS OUTSIDE Weekend?
The weekend is a series of Talks by women
sharing their life journey. Each Guest has the opportunity to review
the Talks in small family groups. However, sharing in the small
family group is voluntary. The program is interspersed with music,
prayer, fun activities, and general pampering. The Weekend is
Christian in nature, although no religious affiliation is necessary
to attend. Women who attend are expected to stay for the entire
program.
Who may attend KAIROS OUTSIDE?
Any adult female 20 years old, or older, whose
life has been impacted by the incarceration of relatives/friends, is
eligible to attend a KAIROS OUTSIDE
Weekend. Women, who did not have an opportunity to attend a Kairos
Weekend while incarcerated, may also attend. This program IS NOT
limited to those women whose relatives/friends have attended a
Kairos Weekend.
Who Presents the Weekend?
The Team consists of
approximately twenty-four women, three - four men (cooks) and two
clergywomen. Many of the Team members may be active in the Kairos
Prison Ministry in various institutions throughout the U.S./World.
All team members come from many different Christian denominations
and are committed to ministering to inmates and their families.
How often are the Weekends held?
The weekends are held
twice a year, generally in the Spring (April) and in the Fall
(October).
How long is a KAIROS OUTSIDE Weekend?
The Weekend begins Friday night at 6:00 pm and
ends on Sunday afternoon around 4:00 pm.
What is the cost to attend a
KAIROS OUTSIDE Weekend?
There is NO cost to the Guests. The
funds are provided by local Christian Communities.
What about childcare during the Weekend?
Assistance with childcare can be provided upon
request, based on individual needs.
Where do I stay during the Weekend retreat?
The VA KAIROS OUTSIDE Weekends are held at
Burkeville, VA and Camp Bethel in Fincastle, VA although other
retreat centers may be used. Both the Burkeville and Camp Bethel
facility provides everything except personal articles. Dress is
casual and comfortable. Transportation can be provided.
Do I have to be a Christian to come on the
Weekend?
No. All we ask is for the Guest to be open to
discussions from a Christian perspective.
What shall I tell my husband about the men on
the team?
The men are present only to prepare and serve
the meals. They do not participate in any of the community room
activities.
Why should I give up a weekend visit with my
Relative/Friend to attend a KAIROS OUTSIDE
Weekend?
Your journey is often difficult. Many people in
the outside world do not understand your position and may reject
you. This weekend is designed to give you support from women who are
in the same situation, and from other Christian women who care about
you and those who are incarcerated.