A Lifeway Research study sponsored by multiple prison ministries surveyed U.S. Protestant churchgoers’ actions and attitudes toward inmates and those who have previously been in jail, prison or a juvenile facility.
It found that one in 4 churchgoers (25%) have been involved in ministry among the incarcerated, formerly incarcerated or their families, including 4% who say they are currently participating. Additionally, 10% say they have been involved in prison ministry activities or training.
When asked about specific examples of ministry, at least half of churchgoers said they had no experience in serving the incarcerated or their families. They are most active in assisting families with loved ones in prison.
Around a quarter (24%) have participated in the past, 13% say their church has engaged with this but they have not personally, 13% have only heard about prison ministry outside of their church and 50% say they have no experience.
Scott McConnell, executive director of Lifeway Research said, “Many churchgoers are largely unaware of specific opportunities to minister to the incarcerated, the formerly incarcerated and their families, yet large majorities of churchgoers believe churches have a responsibility to care for them.”
A 2016 study found pastors are most likely to point to a lack of volunteers and training as hindering their church from helping the incarcerated and their families more.