Social Justice Ministry

“But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!”
Amos 5:24 (NIV)

At Mount Calvary Baptist Church, our Ministry of Social Justice exists as a living expression of God’s call to stand with the oppressed, the overlooked, and the marginalized. Rooted in the timeless truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, this ministry is committed to lifting up those who have been pushed to the margins by unjust systems and circumstances. As Scripture reminds us in John 8:36, “Whom the Son sets free is free indeed.”

We believe that social justice is not just a political or humanitarian ideal—it is a spiritual mandate. Through the power of the gospel, we seek to tear down walls of systemic oppression, economic disparity, and institutional injustice. The words of theologian and civil rights leader James Cone echo our conviction:

“The Christian gospel is more than a transcendent reality… It is also an immanent reality—a powerful liberating presence among the poor right now in their midst.”

Our Mission

Our mission is to lead individuals into a dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ and equip them for service to God and humanity.

This mission informs and drives every aspect of our social justice efforts, which include:

- Evangelism and support in prisons, juvenile halls, and jails
- Voter rights advocacy and education
- Reentry assistance for formerly incarcerated individuals
- Family support programs, including the Angel Tree Ministry
- Partnerships with schools, law enforcement, and community organizations for crime prevention and educational advancement

Areas of Ministry

1. Prison Ministry

Operating under four scriptural pillars of emancipation, our Prison Ministry works not only to reach those behind bars but also to prevent incarceration by engaging with at-risk youth:

The Four Pillars:

Pardon (1 John 1:9) – Embracing God’s promise of forgiveness and redemption
Prevention (2 Peter 3:9) – Reaching individuals before they fall into cycles of incarceration
Prison (Matthew 25:36) – Offering presence, prayer, and support behind prison walls
Parole (Jeremiah 29:11) – Empowering returning citizens with resources, mentorship, and hope

Key initiatives include:

Annual youth trips to San Quentin State Prison through our partnership with the “Real Choices” inmate-led program—boasting a 98% success rate in preventing recidivism among participants
Outreach to facilities including Vacaville Prison, local city and county detention centers, and Chowchilla Women’s Prison
A Pen Pal Program connecting volunteers with incarcerated individuals for spiritual encouragement
Practical reentry assistance: writing parole plans, resume support, interview prep, and providing clothing for job readiness
Collaboration with local schools, the Matt Garcia Foundation, and Police Activities League (PAL) to promote education as a preventive path away from incarceration
Partnership with California Medical Facility to refurbish bikes for MCBC to distribute to underprivileged children during our annual Christmas Day Outreach

2. Juvenile Hall Ministry

Understanding the deep impact early intervention can have, our Juvenile Hall Ministry provides spiritual mentorship, encouragement, and a message of hope to youth in detention. Our volunteers work to show these young souls that they are not forgotten and that God’s grace extends to them no matter their past. Through Bible studies, one-on-one mentoring, and prayer, we strive to plant seeds of transformation early on.

3. Angel Tree Ministry

Through our Angel Tree Ministry, we serve the families of incarcerated individuals—particularly their children—during the holiday season and beyond. We provide Christmas gifts on behalf of their incarcerated parents, offering a tangible expression of love and connection. But the work doesn’t stop there. We continue to support these families through follow-up visits, mentoring, and special events throughout the year, building bridges of healing and reconciliation.

Voter Advocacy

Justice also calls us to action in the public square. Our ministry is engaged in voter rights advocacy, particularly for returning citizens and underrepresented communities. We help individuals understand their rights, assist with voter registration, and promote equitable access to civil and economic participation through education and community engagement.

Join the Movement

The Ministry of Social Justice welcomes anyone with a heart to serve, a voice to speak, and hands to work. Whether your passion is mentoring youth, writing letters to inmates, advocating for voting rights, or simply sharing the love of Christ—there is a place for you here.

Together, we strive not only to preach the gospel but to live it out loud—in the streets, behind prison walls, in city halls, and in the hearts of those who feel forgotten.

Let us be the living river of justice Amos spoke of, flowing in love, power, and righteousness.