About Us

Residents Encounter Christ (REC) is the prison ministry program of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Albany.

REC volunteers are called to invite male residents of nearby prison facilities to join us in forming a Christian community, recognizing that God is present when two or more come together in God’s name. 

Our service to the Lord and building a faith community with these residents is done primarily during an intense three-day weekend program in the prison with timely follow-up meetings supporting other Catholic activities like Bible study, Mass, and fellowship.

The major theme for each weekend retreat is to initiate a change of heart by realizing the need for change, experiencing God’s grace, and embracing the opportunities of a new day with the Lord.