If you’ve ever been on a Kairos retreat, you know how special the closing ceremony is.
You also know how the ceremony itself can be a perfect opportunity to recruit someone into the Kairos community.
If you would like to attend the closing ceremony or you would like to invite someone to the ceremony, the attending person must submit their information to the prison and the Department of Corrections.
This is accomplished by filling out the following form and submitting it to the retreat leader, Archie Corder.
This information must be submitted by October 24.
Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding the closing ceremony:
What time does the ceremony begin?
You should arrive at the prison for 1:45pm. This will give you enough time to get checked in, go through a quick orientation and make your way to the chapel.
The closing ceremony itself lasts as long as the Holy Spirit deems it to last. 🙂 Normally, the event runs from 3:00 – 4:30pm.
After the ceremony, you can join the team just outside the camp for a closing prayer.
Where should we meet?
Please meet at the front gate of Angola, no later than 2:00pm
If you would like to join this caravan of folks, please meet at the team hotel, which is either the Hotel Magnuson or the Best Western. (For Team 60, it is Hotel Magnuson)
The contact person for the group caravan is Kathy Michael and her cell phone is: 225-301-9582
If you would prefer to just meet at the prison, please drive to the front gate and inform security you are there for the Kairos closing ceremony. Again, arrive between 1:45 and 2:00pm.
Where is the prison located?
It’s located just north of St. Francisville. It’s about an hours drive from downtown Baton Rouge.
The address is: Louisiana State Penitentiary, 17544 Tunica Trace, Angola, LA
What happens after I check in with security at Angola?
You will be escorted into the security shed where you will be sniffed by a drug dog. (It’s harmless – you will never actually see the dog. However, if you have drugs on you – well, it’s not gong to be a good afternoon for you – pretty good chance you’ll stay there)
After this, you will be allowed to drive your vehicle to the chapel where the closing ceremony will be held. Don’t worry – they’ll give you directions. Plus, it’s a gated community – you can’t get lost.
Do I need to clean out my car?
Yes. You are entering a maximum security prison. By “clean”, the prison means – no tools, weapons, money or maps.
Can I bring my cell phone with me?
Absolutely not. In fact, you will be required to hand check your cell phone at the security gate – this is mandatory. You may retrieve it upon leaving.
What should I wear?
Great question and thanks for asking. No blue jeans – period. For the most part, wear what you would wear to church or for an important business meeting.
Under no circumstances should you wear anything tight fitting or provocative; such as short skirts.
Additionally, the following are prohibited: short shorts, athletic shorts, tank tops, strapless or spaghetti strap tops, low cut/halter tops, see-through clothing, bare midriffs, bare feet, leggings.
Skirts and shorts may not be any shorter than slightly above the knee. No sleeveless or cap sleeve shirts or dresses will be permitted.
Can I bring anything into the prison?
Yes. You will need to bring your ID.
If you are driving, you can bring your keys. We also suggest a sweater or a jacket as it might be chilly in the sanctuary.
What will happen at the closing ceremony?
You will see Jesus.
Kairos Angola 