This model shifts the frame of reference for reentry ministry. Instead of the focus being solely on the individual being released from incarceration, this approach widens the lens to focus on that person’s family as well. This has ripple effects for the kinds of questions you’ll want to be asking. For example, it’s not just about the returning citizen’s needs and desires but also about the family members who have been affected in their own ways—families often struggling emotionally, financially, relationally, and spiritually. This isn’t to suggest that the ordinary congregation is equipped to solve all the problems and heal all the wounds that have opened up for families of the incarcerated. But it does highlight the importance of being sensitive and compassionate and paying attention to the whole family. In many, if not most, situations, the whole family suffers from shame. And that means a hallmark of the Whole Family Support Model is the consistently intentional and public proclamation in word and deed of their acceptance into full participation in the community. Family members aren’t “parents who failed” or “kids who have a parent to hide.” This shame-busting message of acceptance can go out to your congregation now. In fact, there is probably a significant subset of your members with an immediate or extended fami- ly member who has been justice-involved. As you contemplate this ministry model, a broad range of options opens up to you. We’ll lift up two turnkey programs that you might want to consider, depending on whether you feel led to dip your toes in or dive into the deep end. Two turnkey programs worth considering 1. The first option is one that may already be known to you: Prison Fellow- ship Angel Tree. Prison Fellowship is the nation’s largest Christian nonprofit equipping the Church to serve currently and formerly incarcerated people and their families, and to advocate for justice and human dignity both in- side and outside prison. Prison Fellowship Angel Tree equips churches to strengthen relationships between incarcerated parents and their children and
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