Critical Dimensions

Spirituality can be a significant agent of change for many individuals. Thus, Chaplains serve as critical staff members that assist inmates who choose this path to enhance their knowledge of and commitment to the beliefs and practices of their faith.  At the same time, chaplains work in collaboration with other clinical staff in support of formal treatment programs within the four-dimensional model used in correctional facilities.

For quality management purposes, we have identified four critical dimensions within which all functions of chaplaincy fall:

Personal Development

• Maintaining a Healthy Spiritual Relationship
• Maintaining Effective Personal Relationships
• Sustaining an Active Agenda for Professional Development

Spiritual Service

• Offering Supportive Counseling
• Providing Spiritual Instruction
• Promoting Spiritual Growth
• Maintaining healthy relationships within the Family
• Building Relationships with Staff

Administrative

• Developing and Maintaining an Institutional Plan
• Developing Volunteers
  1. Recruiting
  2. Training
  3. Supervising/Mentoring
• Interfacing with Organizational Leadership
• Interfacing with Institutional Leadership
• Facilitating All Recognized Faith Groups

Community

• Fostering Community Awareness and Partnerships
• Educating Community about Restorative Justice
• Assisting with Inmate Family Concerns
• Assisting with Reentry of Inmates into the Community