Chaplaincy
After four decades of chaplaincy I can truly state, "Chaplaincy is not for the faint of heart. The following are simply my insights over the four decades that may or may not help you. My prayer is that you will take this information and add to it, find support in it, and realize that it has been God, and Him alone, that has brought me through this ministry with His glory, power and might, not me. Chaplain Richard Moyer
Chaplaincy Manual Studies
The correction industry is filled with valuable programs that, if attended and taken seriously, will provide the released inmate with the tools they need to overcome any and all obstacles. The problem is that most inmates fail to recognize their value and simply choose not to participate. Because of this it must be reemphasized that the one aspect of religious programming is that it is unique and different from the other programs being offered to the inmate prior and post release, is the value-added aspect of aiming at and transforming the entire person for all eternity. The physical, the mental as well as the heart/soul are targeted for transformation. And the most influential and dynamic person to bring this type of programming to corrections is the chaplain with strong God anointed leadership.
The history of correctional chaplaincy proves that the added value of the chaplain’s presence historically, currently and in the future continues to be the essential element of corrections for total inmate transformation and reducing recidivism.
The Elephant in the Room
“Unfortunately, our research shows that most small groups excel in fellowship but falter in facilitating transformation. Even the teaching delivered in most small groups has little enduring influence on participants’ lives. Churches have done well in promoting the importance of spiritual maturity but have largely failed to provide an environment where spiritual growth is a lifestyle. This is partly due to our focus on providing programs rather than fostering relationships that support growth. Although there is openness to spiritual coaching, relatively few people are engaged in mentoring relationships. Our interviews with churches indicate that few are intentionally raising mentors and strategically matching them with congregants.” George Barna, in his work Growing True Disciple