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: APRIL 2023
Just for Mentors: April
In this month’s Just for Mentors, Doug discusses the importance of consistency in training puppies and in our daily interactions with others. We also announce the launch of our new lesson specifically designed for students in jails and short-term facilities.
Just for Mentors: MARCH 2023
Just for Mentors: March
In this month’s Just for Mentors, Doug recalls a health scare that challenged him to focus on how to live the days he had been given. We invite you to reflect on the greatest commandment and encourage your students to do the same. This issue also includes the Scripture reading and prayer guide for March and April.
Just For Mentors: FEBRUARY 2023
Just for Mentors: February
In this month’s Just for Mentors, Doug reflects on the ministry of restoration. As God’s ambassadors, we are called to participate in His restorative work. We invite you to ponder what this means for you as a mentor and to challenge your students to seek ways to contribute to this work in their current circumstances.
Just for Mentors: JANUARY 2023
Just for Mentors: January
In this month’s Just for Mentors, Doug recalls wrestling with loneliness and heartache in prison as he questioned whether God was there with him. He turned to Psalm 23 for comfort and peace. If your student is searching for God’s presence, remind them of the truths in this beautiful psalm.
Just for Mentors: DECEMBER 2022
Just for Mentors: December
In this month’s Just for Mentors, Doug acknowledges how hard it can be to forgive ourselves. At Christmas, we remember the hope we have through the birth of our Savior, who came to take away all our sins. Remind your students of God’s gift of forgiveness! This issue also contains the Scripture reading and prayer guide for December and January.
Just for Mentors: November 2022
Just for Mentors: November
In this month’s Just for Mentors, Doug discusses the challenges of remaining patient in inconvenient or frustrating situations. Many Crossroads students find their patience tested daily, as they have very little choice or control in their everyday lives. Encourage your students to ask God to help them let go of the things they can’t control and practice patience.
Just for Mentors: OCTOBER 2022
Just for Mentors: October
In this month’s Just for Mentors, Doug ponders the similarities between road construction projects and God’s restorative work within the hearts of believers. Although the process may be long and painful, God is faithful. Encourage your students to look for ways God has been shaping and molding them along their journeys.
Just for Mentors: SEPTEMBER 2022
Just for Mentors: September
In this month’s Just for Mentors, Doug describes a major disappointment in his life that challenged his faith. When you hear stories of trials, frustrations, and heartbreaks from your students, encourage them to lean on God to help them persevere.
Just for Mentors: AUGUST 2022
Just for Mentors: August
In this month’s Just for Mentors, Doug recalls a time when someone told him they had prayed for him and how much that blessed him. Following the apostle Paul’s example, you can bless your students by writing words of prayer in your letters.
Just for Mentors: JULY 2022
Just for Mentors: July
In this month’s Just for Mentors, Doug reflects on living with integrity. When we treat others with love and respect, trust is built, and we can leave a lasting impact on the lives of others.
Just for Mentors: JUNE 2022
Just for Mentors: June
In this month’s Just for Mentors, Doug discusses a meaningful encounter with the first chapter of James. As you review lessons and read the Bible verses covered in the material, challenge yourself to apply the teachings to your life—and then challenge your students to do the same.
Just for Mentors: MAY 2022
Just for Mentors: MAY
In this month’s Just for Mentors, Doug reminds us that no one is beyond redemption. After God transformed the apostle Paul into a new man, he was no longer defined by his past but by his new identity in Christ. Share this joyful news with your students!