Action Plan
In 2017, The Community of St. Dysmas (CSD) adopted the following statement of values and the goals associated with each.
 

  • Value: We are a Christ-centered ministry that honors the teachings of the Bible.

    • In all our actions we will focus on the life-saving love and forgiveness of God in our worship, Bible studies, and in how we interact with one another throughout all the care ministry as witnessed in the Holy Bible.

 

  • Value: We believe that no life is beyond reach since all are created in the image of God.
    • Equip and empower members to share the transformative journey and life-giving power of God and to have them invite others to join in worship and Bible study.
    • To "open the eyes" of peoples within and without to understand the value and love of all peoples.

 

  • Value: We rely on congregations and volunteers to accomplish and grow the ministry.
    • Continue to promote widely the CSD and engage congregations and volunteers to financially and personally support the ministry.
    • Create a deeper covenanted partnership between a number of congregations and the CSD.
    • Ensure all marketing, brochure, website, and social media reflect the mission and values of the CSD and are easily available to congregations and future volunteers.
    • Consider future relationships with a variety of partners: ecumenical, community, and outside of the church opportunities.
 
  • Value: We use faith stories to connect and enrich the lives of congregations, volunteers and persons incarcerated.
    • As an initial short-term goal, collect three faith stories from each stakeholder group in the next 3-6 months. Utilize these stories in connecting each of the groups, recruiting volunteers, sharing the good work.
    • Long-term goal to collect a minimum of four new stories each year, one a quarter to be shared in communications and in workshops.
    • Host an annual volunteer and other stakeholder gathering to focus on sharing the transforming stories from the year.

 

  • Value: We hold ourselves accountable to excellent management for the ministry including time, talent, and treasures.
    • Excellent management of this ministry is key.

 

  • Value: We are committed to a continuum of ministry and support in and outside the institution.
    • Provide mentoring and friendship to released inmates who have worshipped with CSD and locate into the Maryland area.
    • Offer financial support to recently released inmates who have worshipped with CSD to support reentry into the community.