Spotlight: Unity of Houston Prison Ministry Program
On behalf of Unity of Houston, I am grateful to share the meaningful work taking place within our Prison Ministry Program. With our dedicated volunteers, we are expanding our reach and deepening our commitment to those currently incarcerated and those returning to their communities.
Unity of Houston Prison Ministry Facilitation Team
Unity of Houston recently partnered with the City of Houston Health Department’s Community Re-Entry Network Program to host an Employment Empowerment Workshop supporting individuals transitioning back into their communities. The facilitation team—Ben Whittle, Chris Severs, Joe Cesaratto, Rev. Kirti Cesaratto, Rahul Bahl, and UI Culbertson—offered guidance in employment readiness, digital literacy, inner empowerment, and practical strategies for navigating next steps in transitioning. A meaningful highlight of the workshop was the generous contribution of Unity of Houston member Alex Grand, a professional photographer, who provided complimentary professional headshots for all participants. This gift helped participants present themselves with confidence and dignity as they pursue employment opportunities.
The workshop served approximately 35 returning citizens, offering hope, encouragement, and tools to support their journey toward sustainable employment and reintegration. We also provided lunch and Daily Word booklets to all participants. A special thank you to Unity Worldwide Ministries and Stephen Kosmyna for supplying them at no charge.
Our ongoing support includes a WhatsApp Group that keeps participants connected, supported, and encouraged. Unity of Houston is also working with the director of the Community Re-Entry Network Program (CRNP) to schedule additional Employment Empowerment Workshops, and our ministry team is actively assisting returning citizens in identifying employment opportunities and accessing supportive resources.
How You Can Support This Sacred Work
Unity of Houston warmly welcomes volunteers from across the Unity South Central Region who feel called to participate in this transformative ministry. Opportunities include:
Supporting meditation and spiritual programs in correctional facilities
Assisting with employment readiness and networking
Sharing job leads or community contacts
Providing mentorship or compassionate listening
Offering administrative or behind-the-scenes support
If you feel drawn to serve, your presence and gifts would be deeply appreciated. Together, we can continue to uplift and empower our returning citizens and incarcerated community members.
Rev. Kirti Cesaratto
Staff Minister, Unity of Houston Prison Ministry
Board President, Unity South Central Region
Do you have a program to share? Contact the USCR board to have your program featured in an upcoming USCR newsletter.
