Prison Ministry

Catalog description

Taught by JST. The United States has the highest rate of incarceration of all institutionalized democracies. Currently 1 out of every 100 adult Americans is behind bars. Prisoners are among the poorest and most disenfranchised members of society. Communities of color are over-represented in the American prison system. There is a critical shortage of professionally trained jail and prison chaplains. This course offers both a theoretical and experiential introduction to prison ministry with an emphasis on the unique theological, psychological and ministerial needs of the incarcerated. The course will focus on practical tools needed for successful prison ministry. Students will be introduced to the pastoral challenges of work in prison and be required to spend 2 hours per week on-site engaged in prison ministry under the supervision of an experienced chaplain, preferably at San Quentin State Prison where many opportunities for students to participate in programs are available. Class time will include lecture, active discussion of readings, role-playing, and theological reflection. [Interview required; Faculty Consent required; 12 max enrollment; Auditors with faculty permission]