Kris Cruz
I am an ordained chaplain called to serve those in the most difficult and often forgotten places — juvenile detention centers and correctional facilities.
My ministry is rooted in the conviction that every person, regardless of their past, carries the image of God and is worthy of dignity, compassion, and hope. Through incarnational presence, I walk alongside individuals as they navigate pain, loss, identity, and the possibility of new life in Christ.
- TJJD Juvenile Justice & TDCJ Adult Corrections
- Grief Care & Trauma-Informed Support
- Spiritual Care for Incarcerated Youth & Adults
- Family & Reentry Support
Ministry Focus
I serve at the intersection of faith and justice — where hope is often hardest to find.
Juvenile & Adult Facilities
Serving youth in TJJD facilities and adults in TDCJ correctional institutions, offering spiritual guidance, hope, and consistent presence in some of the most challenging environments.
Grief & Trauma Care
Certified training in Christian counseling and grief care. Providing compassionate support to those processing loss, trauma, family separation, and the weight of incarceration.
Spiritual Care
One-on-one pastoral care, small group discipleship, crisis response, and leading worship and Bible study within correctional settings.
Reentry & Family
Supporting healthy transitions, family reconnection, and long-term spiritual formation for those returning to their communities.
Incarnational Presence
Showing up regularly and consistently. Sometimes the greatest ministry is simply being present in the pain.
Creating safe space for honest stories. Ministry begins when people feel truly heard.
Every person bears the image of God. I speak identity and hope over those who have been told they are worthless.
Grounding all care in the Word of God and the power of prayer, while meeting people where they are.
Support the Ministry
Your generosity sustains this work of presence and hope behind the walls — allowing regular facility visits, crisis response, family support, and spiritual care for those who need it most.
One-Time Gift
Give a single gift to support the ongoing work of the ministry.
Monthly Partnership
Become a monthly supporter and help sustain this vital work year-round.
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Resources
Free materials, teachings, and tools developed for those serving in correctional and juvenile justice ministry.
Ministry Handouts
Printable resources for grief, identity in Christ, and spiritual formation in difficult seasons.
Teachings & Messages
Recorded messages and Bible studies delivered inside facilities.
Coming soon
For Other Chaplains
Reflections and practical tools for those called to correctional and trauma-informed ministry.
Coming soon
Scripture Lookup
Look up a verse or receive an encouraging word from Scripture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from facilities, families, and fellow chaplains.
How can a facility request a visit from Chaplain Kris?
Facilities can contact me directly through the form on this site or by emailing chaplain@kriscruz.com. I’m happy to discuss availability, specific needs, and how I can best serve your population.
Do you serve both juvenile and adult facilities?
Yes, I serve both TJJD juvenile justice facilities and TDCJ adult correctional institutions, as well as providing reentry support.
Is there a cost for facilities or families to receive services?
There is no cost for individuals or facilities to receive spiritual care, crisis response, or pastoral visits. My ministry is supported through churches, individuals, and organizations who believe in this work.
How do you work alongside existing programs like Kairos or facility staff?
I come alongside existing volunteers and staff as a partner. My role is to provide consistent, one-on-one spiritual care and to support the overall mission of the facility without duplicating programs.
Can family members request prayer or support for someone who is incarcerated?
Yes. Families are welcome to reach out through the contact form. While I cannot always deliver messages directly, I can pray specifically and, when appropriate, seek to make contact with the individual inside the facility.
What training and credentials do you bring as a chaplain?
I am ordained through Christian Chaplains & Coaching and hold a certification in Christian Ministry to the Incarcerated. I have also completed training in the Basics of Chaplaincy as well as Christian Counseling and Grief Care.
What is your involvement with Kairos Prison Ministry?
I am partnered with Kairos Prison Ministry, an international Christian organization that conducts short, intensive weekends inside prisons and jails. These weekends are led by teams of volunteers who share the love and forgiveness of Jesus Christ through talks, small group discussions, and prayer.
How are you connected with Torch Ministry?
I partner with Torch, the ongoing small group ministry that follows the Kairos weekend. Torch provides weekly Bible studies, accountability, and spiritual support inside facilities for those who want to continue growing in their faith after the initial Kairos experience.