Stake Responsibilities

The stake president directs prison ministry efforts within the stake boundaries and determines the kind of support to provide at each correctional facility. These efforts include supporting adults and youth who are in custody. A stake prison ministry group may be organized to support this work. Typically, the group consists of the stake president or one of his counselors, a high councilor, a stake Relief Society presidency member, and other couples or individuals called from the stake. In some cases, the organization of a Church branch may better provide the needed support (see General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 37.6). All ministering efforts must follow the guidelines of the local prison administration.

Stake and ward leaders also work together to care for those who have recently been released from custody. They care for family members with a loved one who is incarcerated.

If a stake needs help providing service to a prison or jail within its boundaries, the Area Presidency may assign one or more nearby stakes to assist.