Inmates greet a man and a woman sitting in their church service. Presumably these are Bishops or Chaplains. Special Services of the Priesthood department has requested that PSD capture images of various Correctional facilities that will be used on websites and curriculum targeted to spiritually support LDS members in correctional confinement and their families.

Individual Preparation

Principles

Purpose of the Work—The Lord knows the hearts and minds of all His children (see Alma 18:32). The purpose of prison ministry efforts is to do the will of the Lord as we help adults and youth in custody come unto Jesus Christ, repent, heal, and prepare for progress along the covenant path and for a productive life.

Understanding the Needs—God blesses and provides for His children one by one (see 3 Nephi 11:15). There is value in studying how incarceration affects individuals, families, children, and society. As you regularly meet with adults in custody, you will grow in your understanding of general needs shared by many as well as the individual needs of a particular person.

Understanding the Law—Every country has unique laws, rules, and practices that govern incarceration. Leaders and members must operate within the legal boundaries established in their region. Prison chaplains and other officials can be helpful in gaining a clear understanding of the appropriate scope of our ministering efforts.

Application

• Consider what the scriptures teach regarding the words prison and bondage. Compare this with your assignment to assist those who are incarcerated.

• As you think about the needs of those you are going to help, make a list of the life experiences that you feel will help you to minister with power.

• Explore resources published by trusted sources to learn more about the realities of incarceration.

• When defining your work, consider the needs of the families and children in your community who have an incarcerated loved one. Are there unmet needs that could be addressed by a ward council to make a difference?

• Become acquainted with the rules and requirements to gain access to visit adults in custody at the correctional facilities where you will be ministering.

• Reach out to the prison chaplain to introduce yourself and let him know you are eager to provide support to him and those who seek support from the Church.

Additional Resources

• Hannah’s story video

• Mark’s story video

• “A Message of Hope for Those Who Are Incarcerated”

• “Ministering to Those Who Are Incarcerated”