Effective Reentry Ministry for Ordinary Congregations

Advance Copy


Contents
4

Introduction
5

I. The Challenge
6

The Great Disconnect
6

II. The Path Forward and a New Paradigm
9

The Minefield Of Desistance: Welcoming The Prodigal Back Home
9

Thinking Differently: Paradigms Old And New
12

III. MAKING IT PERSONAL
19

Dan’s Story: “What Happened When I Got Out”
19

IV. Eight Models for Reentry Ministry
23

Introduction to the Models
23

The Service Station Model
24

The Recovery Fellowship Model
27

The Coach/Mentor Connection Model
30

The Peer-led Ministry Model
34

The Jail to Congregation Model
37

The Life-Changing Model
40

The Whole Family Support Model
43

The Mission Station Model
46

V. NEXT STEPS
49

Discerning a path forward and working with your congregation
49

VI. APPENDICES: RESOURCES & FAQS
51

An Overview of the Inside Out Network
51

Summary Report of the Reentry Congregations Initiative Survey
53

Guidelines: Sex Offenders in the Congregation
66

Six Thinking Hats
67

Links to Helpful Resources for Congregations and Familiesof Returning Citizens
68

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