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: 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.
Just for Mentors: MARCH 2025
Just for Mentors: March 2025
In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug reflects on the power of personal stories to inspire, connect, and reveal God’s work in our lives. Sharing moments of vulnerability and lessons learned can demonstrate how God shapes each of us through life’s challenges. Doug encourages mentors to include their own stories when writing to students, reminding them that it’s never too late to reflect on who we are in Christ. This issue features practical tips and a Scripture reading and prayer guide for March and April.
Just for Mentors: FEBRUARY 2025
Just for Mentors: February 2025
In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug shares a personal story of learning the art of self-reflection through crocheting and how it relates to addressing sin in our lives. He encourages mentors to guide students in examining their hearts, asking tough questions, and seeking God’s help in uncovering blind spots. This issue also emphasizes the importance of embracing “do-overs” in life and trusting in God’s guidance to correct mistakes, restore peace, and grow in Christlikeness.
Just for Mentors: JANUARY 2025
Just for Mentors: January 2025
In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug shares his neighbor’s cancer diagnosis and the prayers for healing. He reflects on Jesus’ miracles and encourages trust in God’s power to heal. Doug encourages mentors to remind students that faith in God’s timing and purpose is crucial, highlighting the importance of surrendering to His will and drawing inspiration from others’ faith.
Just for Mentors: DECEMBER 2024
Just for Mentors: December 2024
Just for Mentors: NOVEMBER 2024
Just for Mentors: November 2024
Just for Mentors: OCTOBER 2024
Just for Mentors: October 2024
In this issue of Just for Mentors, Doug encourages mentors who may feel discouraged as they invite others to join them in mentoring. Encourage your students to invite others to share information on how to get involved with the ministry.