8.6: Religious Inmates

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In the United States religious persons and religious institutions have been associated with correctional practice since the formation of the Republic. This influence began prior to the creation of the prison system and expanded with a correctional philosophy aimed at rehabilitation. In recent times the religious institutions and legal services have assist inmates who try to practice their faith while incarcerated. Prison clergy serve as the main avenue through which incarcerated persons have access to religion. Correctional facilities hire clergy as well as other faith representatives to serve a variety of faith-based functions. The First Amendment of the United States Constitution allows, for the practice one’s religion, even for those who are incarcerated. Federal court decisions, as well as state and federal laws support this right, however, this right must not interfere with the security of the institution. Within correctional institutions religious practice is in the form of many faiths, with the most prevalent being the Judeo-Christian faith.

It is challenging to determine why an inmate becomes involved with religion. Some believe it is for seeking redemption, or a sincere attempt to better their life. A belief held by many, including by some who work in correctional facilities, is that inmates “find religion” for manipulative reasons. This might be the case in some instances, but there is evidence some inmates have been changed for the better due to their incarceration and participation in religious practice. In all probability it is for a variety of personal and practical reasons.

With the growth of the American correctional system, and the continuing ethnic and cultural diversification of society, the face of religion in prison may soon change. As prisons become more crowded, correctional officers and other staff will in all probability turn to religious leaders and volunteers to help them deal with the psychological stress which take place in a correctional setting and to accomplish some tasks. Recently there have been more secure prisons built, culminating with the super-maximum prisons where inmates are isolated from other inmates and staff up to 23 hours a day. Such environments are not conducive to social interaction, meaning the reduction of group religious practices. This will result in the need for a change in practice for religious ministries and may cause an increase in individual forms of “spirituality” and religious reflection.

The United States is a multi-cultural society and requires a level of sensitivity towards diversity of faiths. Clergy representatives will may be asked to develop and implement programs designed to reduce racial, religious or cultural conflict. This is significant to faith representatives who will need to be well-versed in a variety of faiths and cultural perspectives. As the prison population grows, more inmates will eventually be released back into society. This means programs with the goal of successful reintegration of inmates back into the community will need the help of religious personnel to promote positive family relationships, maybe even assistance with finding housing and employment. Whatever changes take place in society, it is probable that religious programs and practices in correctional settings will continue to be an active part of prison life.