27 February 2025
The Rev'd Timnat Emmanuel recently started a new role as chaplain at HM Prison in Chelmsford.
Writing for the latest edition of We Pray, Timnat talks about her chaplaincy ministry and explains how it feels to witness the transformative love of Christ in the lives of those she meets:
"The call to prison chaplaincy is one filled with both challenges and profound rewards. It is a ministry that demands patience, resilience, and a deep commitment to service and in this space of hardship and transformation, I have found my calling is in fact deeply fulfilling.
"Serving at HM Prison in Chelmsford has allowed me to offer all that I have - my time, skills, and faith. It is a place where I can fully utilise my qualifications from my time offering person-centred counselling, my theological training, and my teaching background, in order to help individuals navigate their struggles, find hope, and discover their worth in God's eyes.
"Having an Anglican presence in prison ministry is both a privilege and an honour. Knowing that I am there to share the Good News, to bring hope, and to shine the light of Christ in the prison community fills my heart with purpose and brings me immense satisfaction.
"I strongly believe this ministry is the ideal place to put into action the Five Marks of Mission. In a prison setting this can lead to profound personal and societal transformation. Seeing even the smallest signs of transformation - whether it is someone opening up about their faith, finding peace through prayer, or making a positive change in their life - reaffirms my purpose in this calling.
"Engaging in Bible study brings about a remarkable transformation in the lives of those participating. A sense of unity and respect can be seen within the group, as prisoners genuinely listen, support, and encourage one another. They openly share their thoughts on Scripture, fostering deeper discussions that strengthen their faith.
"One of the most inspiring changes I have witnessed is the growth in self-confidence. Those who were once shy now contribute meaningfully to group discussions, in a space where everyone feels valued and heard.
"Beyond the study sessions, faith has become an integral part of their daily lives. They are making a conscious effort to live out their beliefs, seeking guidance and strength in their spiritual journey. A touching example of this was the request for the Christian Chaplain to light a candle and pray for a deceased family member, demonstrating their deepening connection to faith and prayer.
"There is something profoundly moving about witnessing how the message of Christ transforms lives, even in the most challenging circumstances."
We Pray
Timnat's story is one of many from across our diocese that feature in the latest edition of We Pray, To find out more and sign up to receive We Pray by email, please click here.
