INTRODUCTION
Why this how-to guide? The Inside Out Network has been working in reen- try for over 16 years. Over those years, our research and experience have re- vealed a great disconnect. First, our data from over 13,000 returning citizens (those leaving incarceration) shows that nearly 40% of them are seeking a church upon release. There’s massive ministry potential all around us. Second, although some large congregations are doing wonderful reentry ministry, the reality is that most congregations are not currently engaged in reentry min- istry in any intentional or meaningful way. Most congregations (even when motivated) feel stymied by the question of how to do effective reentry min- istry. Congregations tend to rule themselves out, saying, “We’re not capable.” In light of this great disconnect, we at the Inside Out Network undertook a broad survey of what’s happening (and what isn’t) in congregation-based reentry ministry across the United States. In the process, we discovered repro- ducible models of reentry ministry and eight distinct pathways that ordinary congregations can explore. We’ve also developed a new paradigm for thinking about justice, those returning from incarceration, and ways to engage with them. Our hope is that this how-to guide will inform, inspire, and empower ordinary congregations like yours to engage in reentry ministry in a way that fits you. Who is this written for? This guide is aimed at congregations that fall into the family, pastoral, or small program-sized categories. Studies show that the average congregation in North America has roughly 70 regular participants on a weekly basis. These smaller-size congregations make up the vast majority of congregations in North America, and they can be found in virtually every neighborhood where people are being released. This guide is directed to pastors, church leaders, and ministry leaders of ordi- nary congregations (of any or no denomination) who are open to exploring a solid biblical foundation and a new working paradigm for reentry, a range of practical pathways to consider, potential next steps to take with your leadership and congregational members, and additional resources worth exploring. If you feel that God may be leading you and your congregation to get engaged in re- entry ministry but you’re not sure how to get started, we invite you to read on!
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