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JUNE 2025 | CHAPELS OF HOPE

Chaplain Billy Holmes, First-Ever Staff Chaplain

Effective July 1, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice's (TDCJ) Chaplaincy and Volunteer Services Division (CVSD) is proud to announce the appointment of Chaplain Billy Holmes as its inaugural Staff Chaplain. This new role will provide comprehensive pastoral care and support to the agency's dedicated employees.

TDCJ Expands Rehabilitation Efforts with Two New Chapels

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) celebrated the introduction of two new chapels into its correctional system this June. These additions underscore TDCJ's commitment to enhancing rehabilitation services and supporting the spiritual well-being of incarcerated individuals.

Executive Director to Retire August 31

Following a long career of public service, Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) Executive Director Bryan Collier announced his intention to retire effective August 31, 2025. He assumed the role of Executive Director on August 1, 2016.

Summer Enrollment Benefit Elections 

TDCJ employees can visit ERS Online to enroll and make changes to their current plan.

MyTDCJ Employee Application

Visit the MyTDCJ website now to learn how you can register and begin using the app today. 

VIDEO: Changing the Inmate Culture Through Worship

Field Minister Antonio Delapaz helps lead inmate worship services in the Beto Unit chapel. Through inmate-led services such as the Joy Christian Fellowship, inmates learn from those who walked similar paths and have transformed their lives. WATCH how Delapaz and others like him are changing the inmate culture one service at a time.

VIDEO: Building A Community of Fellowship - Kairos Program

Recently, inmates at the Clemens Unit participated in a four-day Kairos program where volunteers guided inmates in changing their mindset and building a community of fellowship. WATCH to see how the Kairos program positively impacts inmates’ lives now and in the future.

VIDEO: Impact Through Volunteering - Katherine Revis

For Katherine Revis, ministry isn't just a part of her daily routine, it's a part of her life. She channels her passion for chaplaincy and volunteer work into helping inmates create positive change and guiding them on their spiritual journey. WATCH to see how Katherine is creating a community and making a meaningful impact through her work.

VIDEO: Chaplain Yvonne Rohlfing

Music serves as a powerful medium that lifts us up in times of healing. For more than 10 years, Chaplain Yvonne Rohlfing and her husband have been using their musical abilities to transform lives at the Lane Murray Unit. WATCH how Yvonne is teaching inmates how to use this gift to uplift others.

ICYMI: TDCJ Prepares for Hurricane Season

Recently, agency leadership participated in a real-time hurricane exercise to simulate an emergency. This high-intensity training is designed to maximize coordination and ensure the agency is ready if a hurricane strikes. The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season is officially underway and continues until November 30. Now is a great time to review your own preparedness plans.