The John Lawrence “Jack” Crans Chapel at the Chester County Prison was dedicated in honor of Prison Chaplain Jack Crans on July 27, 2026.
Chester County Prison Chaplain Jack Crans has been a steadfast presence in the lives of incarcerated individuals, correctional staff, and their families for more than five decades. Since 1973, he has devoted his ministry to serving the prison community with compassion, helping countless individuals embrace personal accountability and hope.
Last month, in recognition of Chaplain Crans’ 53 years of ministry within the Chester County Prison, its chapel was dedicated in his honor as the John Lawrence “Jack” Crans Chapel.
The Chester County Prison Board said in a joint statement, “Chaplain Crans is a remarkable human being with an innate ability to build trust, offer hope, and restore dignity in even the most challenging environments. His belief that ‘the local congregation is the most effective agent for reducing recidivism’ has enabled him to foster collaboration among faith communities, law enforcement, and civic leaders. We are deeply appreciative of his service and commitment to the prison and the Chester County community.”
Chester County Prison Acting Warden Brian Sheller said, “The chapel’s guiding principle, ‘Broken Hearts — Unbroken Hope,’ reflects its enduring mission of offering faith, healing and help to all who enter its doors — values that have defined Chaplain Crans’ work. But for him, those values extend beyond the prison and into the community.
“In 1976, he established City Gate Mission in Coatesville to provide transitional housing and work training for formerly incarcerated individuals and later founded County Corrections Gospel Mission to provide support for at-risk youth and families of justice-involved individuals. Through these ministries, Chaplain Crans has helped countless individuals find stability, purpose, and a second chance.”
The newly dedicated chapel is open to all faiths and denominations and provides a place for worship, reflection, and spiritual support within the Chester County Prison.
