IV. Eight Models for Reentry Ministry
Introduction to the Models How can we come alongside someone like Dan in an effective and helpful way? Well, having a strong biblical foundation and a new paradigm for re- entry is crucial and a great start. But most congregations need more than a theological and theoretical starting point. They need a range of possible path- ways to consider. It helps to be able to consider a practical typology of reentry ministry models that shows their respective pros and cons. In this section we’re going to offer eight distinct but overlapping ministry models that you can explore to see how well they might fit your congregation’s strengths and your neighborhood context. Each of these ministry models tries to offer a clear message—both to returning citizens like Dan and to your congregation itself—that you understand the need and that your congrega- tion has something of value to offer. These eight ministry models are intended to be suggestive, not exhaustive. Many other options and variations on these are possible. They’re also intend- ed to be complementary, not mutually exclusive. If you’re not already engaged in reentry ministry, you may very well want to take a measured approach and zero in on a single model as a possible place to start. On the other hand, don’t feel constrained to pursue only one model. Some of them, in fact, pair extremely well together and can be synergistic. Bottom line, bundle the possibilities in whatever way seems to fit the strengths of your congregation and the resources you have available. Again, remember that these are all approaches that are appropriate for ordinary congregations to pursue. For the most part, they allow you to begin and sustain effective reentry ministry without an unsustainably large investment of either finances or human resources. Here are the eight models in brief. In-depth presentations of the models fol- low. 1. The Service Station Model says: You’ve been through a lot and we know you have a lot of needs right now. Come and get some of what you need. 2. The Recovery Fellowship Model says: We’re on a journey from addiction
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