Introduction

As a Church leader, you follow the example of Jesus Christ as you minister to those affected by crime and incarceration. Heavenly Father knows and loves His children, and your service within a Church prison ministry calling will help many learn, grow, and develop patterns of living that will guide them as they progress along the path toward their Savior. The events that lead to an individual’s incarceration are often hurtful and require healing, recovery, and forgiveness. As you minister, you will help the Lord rescue His children, improve their futures, and reunite them with their families.

Leaders are invited to consider the following questions:

• Have we clearly identified those individuals and families who are affected by crime and incarceration, and do we know what they need?

• Have we called and prepared members within our stake to assist?

• Do we understand the purpose and desired outcome of our efforts?

• Are we familiar with local prison guidelines as well as helpful community resources?

• Have we prepared ourselves through study and prayer to carry out this ministering effort?

Getting Started

Many complex and difficult realities must be understood to do this work. These guidelines will not address every situation, but they will hopefully provide you with the necessary principles to do this work. Our ability to bless others affected by crime and incarceration increases as we see things as they really are and serve in a manner that reflects that understanding.