When Prisoners Return: Why We Should Care and How You and Your Church Can Help By Pat Nolan (Prison Fellowship, 2004) Purchase Now! Summary: Crime is not just a legal problem, but a moral and spiritual problem as well. This book discusses the essential role of the church in breaking the cycle of crime by reaching out to ex-offenders. Each chapter begins by clearly identifying a real issue for a newly released prisoner and concludes by suggesting ways congregations can become involved. These suggestions vary greatly according to the issues and needs, but include ways for both groups and individuals to participate in reentry programs. Nolan also recommends learning about organizations that already serve ex-offenders in your community and brainstorming ways in which your congregation can help coordinate already existing efforts in order to better serve prisoners. In addition, a list of resources, located at the end of the book, supplements each chapter. The book includes discussions on such topics as: the overwhelming amount of decisions, both large and small, newly released prisoners have to make and how mentors can aid ex-offenders during this transition; the immediate need for housing upon release and the obstacles which prevent newly released prisoners from finding a place to stay; the importance of finding a job, the barriers that prevent employment, and the challenges that arise post-hire; health care risks for prisoners and their communities after release; various ways substance abuse and addiction affect the lives of ex-offenders; the church’s role in caring for the victims of crime, both the victimized and the families of the offenders, and the possibilities for forgiveness and reconciliation; and the importance of ex-offenders reintegrating into their communities. Why does FASTEN recommend this resource? Prison Fellowship has been working with prisoners for nearly 30 years. Pat Nolan’s knowledge of successful reentry programs not only come from his experience as a mentor, but as a prisoner. His book is easy to read and clearly lays out ways the church can participate in the rehabilitation process by welcoming prisoners into their congregations and serving as mentors. An extensive contact list of organizations involved with prisoner rehabilitation and reentry can be found in the resources section at the end of the book. | 
