“A Bible is like a Gold Nugget”

Chaplain Gabriele from South Auckland tells her story

Walking with Women in their Hardest Moments

Each day in a women’s prison in South Auckland, Chaplain Gabriele walks through locked doors and secure corridors to meet women who are often carrying fear, grief, and deep uncertainty about the future.

For many, prison is an overwhelming and isolating place. Arriving for the first time can be confronting, and the sudden loss of freedom, family, and normal life can leave inmates struggling to make sense of what has happened. Chaplains like Gabriele step into that space to listen, support, and remind women that their story is not over.

“The environment in prisons… it’s rather scary,” Gabriele says. “When they’re suddenly bereaved of their family, their everyday whereabouts, their whole life changes… this is an ideal opportunity for chaplains to come alongside people and engage.”

Discovering Their Story in God’s Story

Through Bible studies, church services, and one-to-one conversations, chaplaincy teams walk with inmates through some of their most difficult moments. The work is demanding and often unpredictable, but one thing is clear: there is a deep hunger for hope.

“Every week we are giving out a lot of Bibles,” Gabriele explains. “People are really hungry for Bibles in this place.”

For many prisoners, receiving a Bible is a turning point. With long hours spent inside cells and limited opportunities for activity, Scripture becomes a source of comfort, reflection, and direction. Some begin asking big questions about faith and purpose. Others quietly start reading and praying for the first time.

Over time, Gabriele has seen lives slowly change as women discover that their story can be part of God’s story.

A Bible That Becomes a Lifeline

The Bible often becomes one of the most treasured items an inmate owns — something they return to in moments of loneliness and uncertainty.

“A Bible in prison is honestly like a gold nugget at times,” Gabriele says. “When they open it and read what God has for them… they are so excited, and they are so happy. Things just change for them.”

Why Prison Ministry Matters

Through the faithful presence of chaplains and the power of God’s Word, women who once felt forgotten are discovering forgiveness, purpose, and the possibility of a new beginning. Many leave prison carrying that hope with them — continuing to grow in faith as they rebuild their lives.

Across New Zealand, thousands of prisoners are still waiting for that same opportunity.

Through Bible League’s Prison Ministry partnership, Bibles and discipleship resources are being placed into the hands of men and women behind bars, helping them encounter Jesus and begin a journey of transformation.

Give a Bible. Ignite Hope. Transform a Life.

For just $20, you can place a Bible into the hands of a prisoner — offering hope today and the chance for a different tomorrow.

GIVE TO PRISON MINISTRY