Prison Ministry: Understanding Prison Culture Inside and Out

by Lennie Spitale

For most Christians, prison culture is like visiting a foreign land, and the thought of ministering in prisons to those incarcerated is an intimidating prospect. Prison Ministry will empower any pastor, educator, or lay leader in doing effective prison ministry by providing a thorough “inside-out” view of prison life. Author Lennie Spitale offers a unique and qualifying vantage for writing about prison culture and prison ministry. As a young man, Spitale served a prison sentence for an armed robbery that was later reduced to assault and robbery. Two years after his conversion to Christianity, he began conducting a weekly Bible study in a local jail and has been involved in prison ministry for more than two decades.

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Christianity

304 pages, Paperback

First published May 15, 2002

Reviews

[Ben Mellinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must-read for anyone interested in prison ministry. And certainly a front we need more people considering,
as Spitale says, “I do not know of any more fertile ground for the gospel in all of the United States than our jails and prisons. I make this statement unequivocally and without reservation.”
When joining this ministry, he says, “You will find yourself on the cutting edge of ministry—an Acts 29 sort of adventure. The benefits are many. Your faith will grow. Your knowledge of the word will increase. Your prayer life will be recharged. You will behold miracles. You will gain new and lasting friendships. You will discover spiritual warfare. You will see the devil unmasked, and he will attempt to unmask you. You will be a weapon in the hands of a holy God against forces of evil. You will be tested, tried, challenged, sneered at, turned away, and rejected—but you will remain victorious.”

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was really well written for a ministry-related book: the author was very clear without watering down his message. Spitale, a former inmate and a longtime prison minister, is clearly knowledgeable about prison culture and effective prison ministry, and he features a whole range of convincingly narrated examples, describing the miraculous, the banal, and the disappointing in a way that demonstrates that he's seen it all. He does a fantastic job capturing what's it's like to be incarcerated and how badly missionaries are needed in this nation's prisons and jails.

[Scott Kalas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best I've read on prison ministry none other comes close. Spitale gives a great understanding of the culture of those incarcerated in the way they think and an insight to their emotions.

As the President of a prison ministry I make Prison Ministry: Understanding Prison Culture Inside and Out a highly recommend read for all involved with prison ministry.

[Robert Godinho · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this to be one of the best prison ministry books available at the time, of the small list that was available in the early 2000’s. Years ago, I read this book before I started prison ministry. I knew a lot about prison culture already and now that I have been a prison minister for over seven years, I can look back at some of the things Spitale mentions in this book and how important they were. Spitale covers many aspects of the culture but please talk to someone who already does prison ministry to get a better idea as Spitale cannot come close to covering all the aspects of the culture of so many various prisons that exist today. Just remember, inmates trust no one, keep your head on a swivel and be respectful. But like with everyone, you have to let them know where your lines are and to not cross them or they will take advantage of you. I know it’s not for everyone but if God calls you to enter prison ministry, we sure could use the help because there just aren’t enough of us out here!

[Barb Hegreberg · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this for my chaplaincy classes.  It is written in simple but powerful language. It is currently out of print but you can find used copies online.  CLICK HERE 

“For most Christians, prison culture is like visiting a foreign land, and the thought of ministering in prisons to those incarcerated is an intimidating prospect. Prison Ministry will empower any pastor, educator, or lay leader in doing effective prison ministry by providing a thorough “inside-out” view of prison life. Author Lennie Spitale offers a unique and qualifying vantage for writing about prison culture and prison ministry. As a young man, Spitale served a prison sentence for an armed robbery that was later reduced to assault and robbery. Two years after his conversion to Christianity, he began conducting a weekly Bible study in a local jail and has been involved in prison ministry for more than two decades”

https://mylifeinourfathersworld.wordp...

[Bryce · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a really good guide to a rarely discussed topic. It's an extremely useful read for anyone considering getting involved in prison ministry or wanting to understand the landscape better. Spitale has all the requisite bona fides to write a book like this and conveys his message in a clear, practical way.

Much of the book remains completely relevant today, but the book is starting to show its age a bit. I would love to see an updated version that captures some of the modern trends in prisons and prison ministry.

Edit: Apparently there IS an updated version that came out in 2020 and I just had the older one. Great!

[Matthew C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great stuff from a guy that knows this world inside and out (literally!)

[Holly Weiss · Rating 4 out of 5]

I happened to meet the author who is a docent in the Sunday School House at the Hagley Museum. We shared stories of writing our books.

Chuck Colson called Prison Ministry "the definitive book on prison ministry." I learned a great deal about prison, the life of inmates, and how to go about ministering to them.

The author is credentialed. He served time for robbery and was court martialed while in the Navy. After his release and conversion to Christianity, he spent 25 years bringing God's love to inmates. He is truly qualified to speak of "Understanding Prison Culture Inside and Out." Many suggestions on effective prison ministry are presented. Are you cut out for this kind of ministry? Spitale will help you sort that out.

The book gives many insights into the emotional, physical and psychological lives of prisoners.

- Their rights to privacy are surrendered.
- Admitting weakness often is an invitation to harsh treatment.
- Loneliness is woven into the fabric of their lives.
- Living with fear is an everyday experience.
- All life decisions are made for them.

The premise of the book is that Jesus Christ loves prisoners. Men and women at the end of their ropes need someone to touch them. Spitale and his ministry seek to do just that and will help you do the same.

[Judi · Rating 5 out of 5]

EXCELLENT book! This is my second time reading this - this time it is for a course in Correctional Ministries as required reading. I am glad to have read it the second time through. I enjoyed the insight that Lennie provided, both from a pastoral perspective and as someone who has spent some time inside the walls of a prison. Hearing first hand about the culture inside was very helpful - it affirmed much of what I have seen and added additional insight for me to keep in memory.

It seems that he has spent his post-incarceration years in prison ministry. Kudos to him for his lifetime of good works. In my faith, it is one of the acts of mercy and from what I see it gets a bit neglected - even in the churches. We are all called to . . . "Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering." (Hebrews 13:3)

[C Balson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written book on the ins and outs of working with men behind prison walls. It explains everything that you will need to be a successful mentor and spiritual leader under very harsh condition. If a person is preparing to enter into prison ministry it is a must read.

[Sherie Kirkpatrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this! If you want to work within incarcerated walls, already do or want to read about this special mission field, this book is for you! I am even more excited having read this book for what God is doing and how I GET to participate!

[Jaclyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

a little too fundamentalist for my liking, but his experience behind bars makes him an important voice in this field. It was helpful to hear the inner workings of a prisoners head and heart.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

An insightful guide to prison ministry. As a current volunteer I found myself both nodding in agreement and learning new things. The author is humble yet forthright.

[Shaun Marksbury · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must-read for those involved with or joining in jail and prison ministry. Encouraging and practical.

[Paul Beighley]

Excellent guide!