To the ACCA

Central Region Conference

Greetings - to my colleagues in correctional ministry.

Unfortunately, I cannot be with you during this ACCA Central Region Conference. However, let’s keep each other in prayerful support.

First, I want to thank you for being here. For taking the time and effort, you demonstrate the importance of professional development. Besides, we who are on the front lines of delivering religious programs and services to inmates need mutual support in our endeavors.

Second, I want to encourage you in your ministry. As many Departments face very serious financial difficulties, we need to focus on what we do best. Integrating the arena of faith with other aspects of treatment and recovery. We need to do our very best in meeting the religious needs of all inmates, especially those of minority faith groups.

If we do not provide a spiritual presence in institutions, no one else will. Or we may be seen as not relevant to modern corrections. We need to continue reminding administrators of the government’s obligation to meet particular religious requirements. We service all inmates or offenders, we do not discriminate. As I heard from one chaplain, we are the “conscience” of the institution. We need to be an example of what we preach. Or as inmates say, “walk the talk.”

As so many of us deal with various religious selection and identification issues; groups and volunteers; policies and procedures; - I hope we still have the time and energy for that one individual who is lonely and confused about many things. The one who does not have a formal religious preference (which could be handed off to a volunteer or contract person); we are their advocate and pastoral counselor.

A very popular national movement, gaining momentum is the whole area of Re-entry and Community (restorative) Justice initiatives. We need to be a part this. If we personally do not become involved in this process, we are cutting ourselves off from one of the most closest and important links in successful reentry – the religious community. A variety of churches, synagogues, temples and mosques are committed to helping men and women with their re-integration back into society. It is never easy and simple. As many of you know all too well, ex-convicts or former prisoners have complex issues and needs (many government required) which must be addressed for recidivism to be reduced. While our primary responsibility may be in an institution, we need to be creative on how we can assist

Special thanks to Dale Hale and Janet Casey-Allen for coordinating this regional conference. Relax and ENJOY each others’ fellowship.