Introduction

Your term of incarceration does not need to be the defining experience of your life. Your identity as a child of God is eternal, regardless of incarceration. Moving forward with faith and trust in Jesus Christ will help you become what He wants you to become. He will help you live a fulfilling and meaningful life.

Life during and after incarceration can be difficult. Finding employment and housing, strengthening relationships, and many other aspects of daily living may be complicated by a criminal record. Despite these difficulties, you are not alone. By following Christ’s teachings, you can improve yourself and leave your weak moments, poor choices, and difficult experiences in the past. God will never abandon you. His love, blessings, and confidence in you can be sources of daily strength during any challenge (see Matthew 11:28–29).

In addition to God the Father and Jesus Christ, your family, friends, and the Church can be sources of help. There are also many good people who have organized community and agency resources that are dedicated to your long-term success. However, remember it will always be up to you to make good choices that will help you progress.

Here are a few behaviors that will help you partner with the Savior to change and improve:

Keep yourself close to God through prayer, scripture study, and meditation. These simple actions will inspire you to make good choices and help you to understand and trust Jesus Christ as your Savior and friend.
Establish a connection to the Church. Contact local Church leaders such as the bishop, branch president, elders quorum president (for men), or Relief Society president (for women). Share with them your journey, including your conversion and your hopes for the future. These leaders can help you establish your life and participate in the Church.
Continue to comply with all legal obligations, restrictions, and consequences. Don’t participate in any actions that could violate the terms of your release, parole, or probation or lead to reincarceration. Communicate often with supervision authorities concerning your progress, needs, and desires.
Avoid friends, places, or lifestyles that can lead to incarceration. Find friends who will support you as you seek to make positive changes in your life. Seek employment and housing in a part of your community that will allow you to adhere to your improvement goals and will meet your legal requirements. Use this time of your life to define your future. Seek counsel from your Church leaders about living locations and safe social environments.

Remember—God loves you, and He will inspire you, give you strength to work, and lead you to those who can help (see 1 Nephi 17:3).