Onesimus Workbook

24 • T HE O NESIMUS W ORKSHOP : W ELCOMING F ORMER P RISONERS INTO THE L IFE OF THE C HURCH

E. Low self-control

F. Substance abuse

VI. The Difference Between Jails and Prisons

A. Jails

B. Prisons

Summary of This Session • Church members and prisoners have hopes and fears. • Prisoners incarcerated for 18 months become enculturated into prison culture. • Prisoners need a community of friends to help them re-enculturate from prison culture to civilian culture or they are likely to re-offend and go back to prison. In the Next SessionWeWill Seek To: • Understand the time and effort it will take to help a former prisoner adapt. • Recognize the differences between a systemic approach and a programmatic approach. • Appreciate the seven keys that will make the process successful. Questions for Discussion • After hearing what it is like in prison, why might it be hard for a former prisoner to feel welcomed at your church? • What things can you do to help a former prisoner make the shift from prison culture to civilian culture? • How long do you think it will take for a person to make the shift from prison culture to civilian culture?