Onesimus Workbook

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

V. Seven Keys to Success

A. You don’t have to do it all.

B. The process has to start months before release.

1. Before release (see Appendix 2,3)

2. Upon release 4

a. First three hours

b. First three days

c. First three months

d. First three quarters

3. After release

C. Believe in the person as an asset rather than a liability.

1. Ignorance

2. Pity

3. Patronizing

4. Partnership

D. Patient, understanding friends who empower by setting boundaries

1. More than a job, housing, or money, they need a circle of friends.

2. Coach them to make decisions on their own.

3. Help them when they feel overwhelmed.

4. Be aware of manipulation.

4 https://www.prisonfellowship.org/resources/support-friends-family-of-prisoners/ supporting-successful-prisoner-reentry/get-out-stay-out-reentry-guide/