Who is my neighbour : the church through the eyes of former inmates

Abstract

This Qualitative Research study examines the data collected from former inmates of provincial and federal jails and prisons. Using a phenomenological research method, having completed one on one direct interviews with five participants, this study focuses on how former inmates have experienced the church and what the church can do most accurately to engage with individuals upon release from custody and return to community. This study identifies five overall themes which ultimately relate to accurate engagement by the church with former inmates: hopelessness, aloneness, time, connection and hope. Based, on the findings, literature review on the subject and theological consideration, the implications for the church as well as general conclusions are drawn. Most notably, it is argued that accurate support from the church relates to ongoing contact, connection, and relationship, all requiring a very limited draw on time or human resources. This is a hopeful outcome indeed.