Convicts Converted to Christians

Becoming a born-again Christian in prison often puts forth motions and events that dramatically change a persons path. The act of conversion itself is not necessarily enough [in human terms], but it provides a bridge to church congregations and other outside resources that can prove instrumental in changing the remaining lives of ex-prisoners.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of prisoners take part in religious services and interact with faith-motivated volunteers and mentors. Many of these offenders have had religious conversions. In and of itself, this may not mean a great deal to the Police force, criminologists, correctional practitioners, or policy makers. However, faith-based prison programs, faith-based reentry, and church congregational aftercare programs have the potential to strengthen these Christian conversions. Jail-house conversions should not be viewed cynically but as an opportunity to connect these converts to church volunteers and faith-based networks that can facilitate and nurture spiritual transformation.

The most effective programs helping offenders are those that deliberately link spiritual transformation to societys support networks. Not necessarily Government programs, but what you and I can do. Relying only on faith-based prison programs to reform prisoners and reduce crime would be a misguided endeavor. However, faith-based organizations, governmental agencies, and other social service providers need to consider combining mentors, partnerships, and mutual accountability to reduce recidivism and protect the publics safety. Remember, ex-prisoners are, and will continue to be, camouflaged participants in our society. Rather than being fearful, remember, every soul you seed with the Word and kindness will increase your rewards in heaven. Hence, you should go forth and make disciples of inmates of all nations.