Doc Hammes started volunteering in prison ministry over 15 years ago when he was given a letter from a Christian inmate requesting that someone visit him. Doc visited and the inmate asked him to visit other inmates as well. Other requests have come through people contacting the church or families contacting Doc directly. Presently, there are approximately 10 men who are visited at Elmira Correctional facility on a one-on-one basis. Eight more are visited, also on a one-on-one basis, at Southport Prison on the weekends. Ministry consists of spending time together visiting as well as reading the Bible and praying. The visit can also include playing cards or other games and snacks. Because some of the men referred are not Christians, Doc is able to talk to them about Jesus and some of the men have entered into a relationship with the Lord through this ministry. If someone feels lead to minister to others through prison ministry, they can contact Doc through New Life Assembly of God Church. Since both Elmira Correctional Facility and Southport Prison house male inmates, it is recommended that only men volunteer for the one-on-one visitation.

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