Volunteer mentors are the heart of Crossroads Prison Ministries. In order to provide ongoing training and encouragement for volunteers, we provide monthly newsletters called Just for Mentors. Each newsletter includes tips, ideas and encouragement from Doug Cupery, director of church mobilization at Crossroads, and important news and reminders for mentors. We hope these newsletters help you become the best mentor you can be!
Just for Mentors: MARCH 2026
Just for Mentors: March 2026
In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug reflects on the compassion he saw during his time in a prison hospital and long-term care facility. As he shares moments of care found in unexpected places, Doug reminds us that God’s comfort is often revealed through simple, faithful acts of service. This issue invites mentors to notice those who are hurting and to reflect Christ’s compassion through their words and prayers—assuring students that they are seen, cared for, and never beyond God’s transforming love.
Just for Mentors: FEBRUARY 2026
Just for Mentors: February 2026
In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug reflects on a powerful encounter in a prison segregation unit that reminds us of God’s boundless mercy. As you read about a condemned man who placed his hope fully in Christ, you’re invited to consider how God’s grace reaches even into the darkest places. Just as mentors offer encouragement, prayer, and compassion with every lesson, you help carry that same message of hope—affirming that no one is beyond God’s rescue, and that His mercy has the final word.
Just for Mentors: JANUARY 2026
Just for Mentors: January 2026
In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug reflects on the power of slowing down to hear God’s quiet guidance. Through a personal story about his wife’s near accident, he reminds us that stillness can be an act of faith and protection. This issue encourages mentors to take time to listen for the Holy Spirit’s direction as they write to their students and to help students do the same—creating space for God’s voice to bring peace, wisdom, and strength.
Just for Mentors: DECEMBER 2025
Just for Mentors: December 2025
In this issue of Just for Mentors, the familiar words “We’ve made room for you” take on new meaning as Doug reflects on the support his family received during a difficult season. Tying this experience to the Christmas story, he reminds us that just as God made room for us through Christ, we are called to extend that same welcome to others. As you write letters and pray for your students, you echo that message—assuring them they are remembered, valued, and have a place in God’s family.
Just for Mentors: NOVEMBER 2025
Just for Mentors: November 2025
In this issue of Just for Mentors, a recent funeral becomes the backdrop for reflecting on the true meaning of hope. While everyday language treats hope as a wish or desire, Scripture shows us that hope in Christ is certain and unshakable. Doug reminds mentors that Jesus’ finished work on the Cross frees us from fear, gives us confidence in God’s promises, and equips us to share that living hope with the students we walk alongside.
Just for Mentors: OCTOBER 2025
Just for Mentors: October 2025
In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug reflects on the influence of truth and discernment in a student’s spiritual growth. Drawing from Jesus’ parables and the natural process of fermentation, we’re reminded how even small influences—good or bad—can spread and take root. This issue encourages mentors to guide students in comparing what they hear with Scripture and to foster conversations that lead them deeper into God’s truth.
Just for Mentors: SEPTEMBER 2025
Just for Mentors: September 2025
In this issue of Just for Mentors, a stumble on a morning walk leads to a deeper reflection on what it means to fall—physically and spiritually. Drawing parallels between tripping on a trail and the missteps we all make in life, Doug encourages mentors to remind their students that failure isn’t the end of the story. With grace, restoration, and God’s strength, each fall becomes an opportunity to grow in faith and walk with greater intention.
Just for Mentors: AUGUST 2025
Just for Mentors: August 2025
In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug reflects on how a simple trip to the beach—and the stubborn presence of sand—offers a powerful picture of how sin clings to our lives. Yet even more persistent than sin is God’s grace. Doug encourages mentors to help their students move beyond guilt and repeated apologies into a life marked by repentance and spiritual renewal. It reminds us all to be kind to ourselves, trust God’s ongoing work, and rest in the peace that only Christ can give.
Just for Mentors: JULY 2025
Just for Mentors: July 2025
In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug reflects on a prison class discussion about integrity and commitment. When some class participants left early, those who stayed explored how consistent choices shape character. This issue encourages mentors to remind students that being trustworthy and dependable reflects a heart aligned with Christ.
Just for Mentors: JUNE 2025
Just for Mentors: June 2025
Life is full of changing seasons—times of transition, challenge, and renewal. In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug reflects on how shifting relationships and roles shape our faith. He encourages mentors to consider how God has worked through their own seasons, just as students navigate uncertainty and transformation. Find encouragement in His perfect timing, along with a Scripture reading and prayer guide for June and July.
Just for Mentors: MAY 2025
Just for Mentors: May 2025
In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug shares how a long-overdue home restoration project reminded him of God’s ongoing work in our lives. He reflects on the process of spiritual renewal, the importance of persistence while we go through setbacks, and the hope of full restoration in Christ. This issue encourages mentors to remind their students that transformation takes time, but with each step, God is shaping them into His image.
Just for Mentors: APRIL 2025
Just for Mentors: April 2025
In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug reflects on the impact of compassion, humility, and kindness in mentoring relationships. Through a story from a prison chapel, we’re reminded of how God’s presence transforms hearts and fosters connection between the inside and outside church. Doug encourages mentors to embody Christ’s attributes when writing to their students, showing His love through their words and actions.