Prison Introduction
How can I serve men, women and children who are held in prisons near where I live? What are their needs? How do I engage with them?
Prison
How can I serve men, women and children who are held in prisons near where I live? What are their needs? How do I engage with them? Resources gathered from around the world will help answer these and other questions on ministering to those inside prison, as well as how to effectively support and work alongside prison chaplains and correctional officials.
Prisons are used all around the world to contain those who have broken the law. Prisons come in multiple shapes and sizes. Some house specific categories of prisoners. Others are compounds where all offenders are held together, irrespective of age and crime.
This section of the COT site looks at the needs of Offenders, Pre-trial prisoners, Chaplaincy and Corrections, and gives examples and information on ministry opportunities.
Offenders' needs are manifold. Some need basic physical care such as food and clothing. For others, friendship, knowing they are not forgotten. For all, it is the need for hope and spiritual care. Information, materials, projects and examples of good practices are designed to encourage a deeper understanding of the needs of offenders and enable them to be better served by the Christian community.
Surprisingly high numbers of people in prison around the world have still not been tried in court. Some have not even been charged. Often referred to as remand prisoners, they have additional concerns beyond those who are sentenced. High degrees of uncertainty and concern compound the stress of being in prison. The sensitive care and concern of Christians can provide vital support to pre-trial prisoners.
Most countries around the world have a recognised prison chaplaincy. These men and women of God tirelessly serve "the least of these" (The Bible: Matthew 25 v40), offering pastoral care and discipleship support to prisoners and often corrections officials. Christians engaged with prison ministry should honour the chaplaincy and seek to support their role within the prison. Examples of partnerships and good practices show that co-operative working is not only desirable but essential for the cause of Christ in prisons.
Although focus is often on the prisoner, Christian love and care should also be extended to the corrections officials. By offering courtesy and respect for their role within the prison system, the pathway for ministry is not only smoothed, but is a positive witness for Christ. Given here are examples of activities and programmes designed to enhance relationships with corrections officials.
