What is OLM Alpha in Jails/Prisons?
OLM Alpha in Jails/Prisons is offered to incarcerated individuals who freely choose to participate. Led by trained parish volunteer Sharon Smagala, the program creates a welcoming, respectful, and non-confrontational space where participants are invited to reflect, ask questions, and explore faith at their own pace.
The course typically runs over several weeks and can be adapted—shortened or extended—as needed, in collaboration with the Alpha volunteer(s) and the prison chaplain, to best serve the participants.
Each Alpha session begins with a short talk that explores a core aspect of the Christian faith. These talks are presented through the Alpha video series and are designed to be engaging, accessible, and thought-provoking.
After the talk, participants gather in pre-assigned small groups that remain consistent throughout the course. These groups provide a safe and respectful environment for honest conversation, where everyone is encouraged to share their thoughts and ask questions freely.
Thanks to the generosity of donors, Alpha in Jails/Prisons is offered at no cost to participants. If you would like to partner with the OLM Alpha Jails/Prisons Ministry, donations may be made through our online giving portal. Please include “OLM Alpha Prison Ministry” in the comments.
Your generosity helps bring the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ to our incarcerated brothers and sisters. As our Lord reminds us, “I was in prison and you visited me” (Matthew 25:36). We are deeply grateful for your support, which allows this work of mercy to continue.
We have a great need for male volunteers to serve men in Jails/Prisons; female volunteers are also appreciated. Please connect with Sharon Smagala at tweeter4811@gmail.com for further details.
Alpha Talks
Is There More To Life Than This?
Join us in this thought-provoking episode as we explore life’s big questions. Is there more to life than this? What is the purpose of my life? Where am I heading? It also introduces the person at the heart of the Christian faith: Jesus Christ.
Who Is Jesus?
He is one of the most well-known historical figures in the world. This episode discusses “Who is Jesus?” and any evidence for his existence. Was Jesus fully human or divine? Was he more than a man, a great human and a religious teacher?
Why Did Jesus Die?
Have you ever wondered why the cross is the symbol of Christianity? This episode explores why Jesus was crucified on a cross about 2000 years ago and what relevance that has today.
How Can I Have Faith?
This episode explores what it means to have faith and to be a Christian: someone who follows and puts their faith in Jesus Christ.
Why and How Do I Pray?
Is prayer simply a religious tradition or a personal conversation with God? This episode explores why and how people pray.
Why and How Should I Read the Bible?
Is the bible relevant today? How did it come to exist? This episode explores how God still speaks to people through His written Word.
How Does God Guide Us?
The Bible says God has a good plan for our lives. This episode explores how God guides us throughout our lives and as we navigate our desires and everyday decisions.
Who Is The Holy Spirit?
Helper. Comforter. Counsellor. One part of the Holy Trinity. The Holy Spirit has many names and this episode explores the question many have asked throughout the ages. Who is the Holy Spirit, and what role does He have today?
What Does The Holy Spirit Do?
This episode explores the function and works of the Holy Spirit and how we can experience Him today.
How Can I Be Filled With The Holy Spirit?
This episode explores what it means to have access to and to be filled with the Holy Spirit and the difference between them.
How Can I Resist Evil?
Where does evil come from and how can we resist it? This episode explores why we should believe that the devil exists and how we can defend ourselves against his tactics.
Why and How Should I Tell Others?
This episode explores why and how Christians can share with others about their faith.
Does God Heal Today?
This episode explores what the bible says about healing in the Old Testament, throughout Jesus’ ministry while He was on earth and healing today.
How Can I Make The Most Of The Rest Of My Life?
What can life look like from now on? This episode explores what comes after a decision to follow Jesus Christ.
>7 million Americans in jails, prisons or on parole or probation.
>2.5 million Americans are confined in prisons
>67% will re-offend within 3 years of release & 40% returning to prison.
>50% of inmates that try Alpha report making a commitment to Christ or rededicating their life.
Prayer for Those Experiencing Alpha in Jails/Prisons
Heavenly Father, through Your Son our Lord Jesus,
You came to seek out the lost, heal the brokenhearted, and set captives free.
We lift up to You the men and women who will be experiencing Alpha in jail.
Open their hearts to Your truth, their minds to Your hope, and their lives to Your transforming Love.
May they encounter Your mercy, know their dignity as beloved sons and daughters,
and discover that no wall or chain can separate them from Your grace.
We place them in Your care and trust in the work You are already doing within them.
We pray this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever.
Amen.