Who we are
Faithjumpers Jail Ministries exists to bring hope, transformation, and spiritual support to those who are incarcerated. We, over 100 volunteers, provide interfaith care that honors both individual beliefs and institutional safety. Our mission is to help individuals grow in faith, character, and purpose while navigating rehabilitation. Through mentorship, education, and advocacy, we equip people to make meaningful and lasting life changes. We believe true transformation begins within and extends outward—impacting families, strengthening communities, and restoring lives.
On December 9, 2025, members of our team were recognized by the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors for dedicated service.
Our Director,
Rev. Anthony Bell.
Hello—my friends call me Tony.
I began my career at Folsom State Prison as a correctional officer and was later promoted to Parole Agent I & II, and then to Special Agent. In each role, I worked within systems designed to change lives—not only enforcing the law, but also observing, engaging, and understanding the people within those systems.
For the final 12 years of my career, I led a joint United States Marshals Service and California Department of Corrections task force, serving our communities through accountability and protection. In total, I served 28 years as a peace officer.
During my career, God was shaping my heart for service. I saw the deep needs within the human soul and was moved to love others as God has loved me.
I served 17 years as a volunteer chaplain at Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center and have been involved in ministry for over 35 years. Through that work, I’ve learned that while systems can manage behavior, lasting change comes through transformation of the heart.
After retiring, I earned my Master of Divinity and now serve as Director of Correctional Ministries for the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office. Today, my focus is not just overseeing people—but investing in their lives.
I care deeply about the people I serve and the team I serve alongside. Real change is possible, and I have spent a lifetime witnessing what leads to it.
Change does not happen by chance—it happens when people step in.
Thank you. Your prayers, partnership, and support make this work possible.
Correctional Chaplains!
Opportunities within the Chaplaincy:
Studies and Classes
Teaching, preaching, and facilitating classes within the jail provides a powerful opportunity to bring clarity, hope, and deeper understanding of spiritual truth to those seeking change. We are looking for committed individuals who are called and equipped to lead, teach, and share in a way that transforms lives. If you believe this is your area of gifting and desire to make a lasting impact, we invite you to connect with us and explore how you can serve alongside Faithjumpers Jail Ministries.
Utility Chaplains/Administrative Services
Utility, Support, and Administrative Chaplains form the foundation that makes all other ministry possible. From serving as a Utility Chaplain—responding to inmate messages (kites), offering prayer, providing counseling, and encouraging those in need—to vital behind-the-scene roles, every contribution matters.
Opportunities include clerical support, office management, bookkeeping, warehousing, shipping and receiving, and specialized assignments.
If you have a heart to serve and a gift for organization, support, or administration, this is a powerful way to make a meaningful impact.
A Chaplain Should demonstrate maturity in their faith, strong moral character, and a consistent, faithful walk aligned with their beliefs. Effective communication skills are essential, along with the ability to engage respectfully and meaningfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Chaplains are expected to commit to regular service, with availability to serve at least twice per month for a minimum of two years. Reliability and consistency are critical to building trust and fostering lasting impact within the jail community.
All Chaplains must be able to successfully pass the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office background check and operate in alignment with Correctional Ministry leadership, adhering to all institutional policies, safety protocols, and guidelines.
A heart for service, humility, cultural awareness, and the ability to work within a structured correctional environment are essential to effectively fulfilling this role.
One on One Mentoring
Mentoring and discipleship are essential for lasting personal and spiritual transformation. Through one-on-one guidance, individuals learn truth, develop discipline, navigate failure, and apply wisdom—gaining the tools needed to live faithfully and grow in character. Our presence can make a lasting impact.
Faith Practices
We actively support and provide opportunities for the practice of all faith traditions within our facilities.
If you are willing to serve, there are individuals waiting for your guidance, encouragement, and leadership. Your presence can make a lasting impact.
Without volunteers from your faith, those who share your beliefs may go without the spiritual support needed to grow and flourish.
Contact us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch.
We can’t wait to hear from you!