ROCK CITY PRISON TEAM GUIDE
For questions or concerns, contact us at prison@rockcitychurch.tv
WHY PRISON TEAM
At Rock City Church, WEAREFORTHEONE– Jesuscametoseekandsavethelost,andwe,too,willpursueeverylost oneuntileverylostoneisfound . There are so many 'ones' that are currently locked up in correctional facilities all across our state, and some of them may never have the opportunity to hear the gospel unless we bring it to them.
MakingHeavenFullrequires intentional effort to pursue those who are generally left behind and forgotten by society. This is not only our church’s mission, but it is a direct command from Jesus himself (seeMatthew25:31-46andMatthew 28:19-20). Serving on the Rock City Prison Team provides you with an opportunity to go BeyondOurWallsand MakeA Differencefor His Kingdom.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1: PRISON TEAM SERVING OPPORTUNITIE 3
PRISON WORSHIP EXPERIENCES
PRISON SMALL GROUPS
SECTION 2: PRISON TEAM APPLICATION PROCESS 5
WORSHIP EXPERIENCES + SMALL GROUPS
INMATE PRAYER TEAM
SECTION 3: CONDUCT WHEN SERVING 6 IN-PERSON VISITS
DRESS CODE
JEWELRY RESTRICTIONS
MEDICAL NEEDS
EXPECTATIONS
ROCK CITY CHURCH VALUES
SECTION 4: REENTRY 11 ABOUT REENTRY REENTRY PARTNERS
SECTION 5: FAQS 13
“ThankyouguysSOMUCHfor comingtoseeusonDeathRow.It wasreallyagreatserviceandall theguysweretalkingabouthow greatitwas.So[many]oftheother guysinherewishtheyhadwent.So maybenexttimeyouwillsee MOREofus.“ – CCIDeathRowInmate
SECTION 1: PRISON TEAM SERVING OPPORTUNITIES
PRISON WORSHIP EXPERIENCES
WHY WORSHIP EXPERIENCES
The first step to a relationship with God is to Encounter God . We grow deeper roots in our relationship and understanding of who God is by looking to His written word (the Bible), surrounding ourselves with a Jesus Centeredcommunity, and worshiping together (see2 Timothy3:16,Hebrews10:24-25,John4:23,etc.).Rock City Worship Experiences provide opportunities for engagement in all of these areas while equipping and aligning the church.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The concept behind the Prison Worship Experiences is to operate as similarly as possible to a Sunday morning Rock City Worship Experience. We aim to provide a welcoming environment for the inmates to Encounter God by building community, worshiping together, and hearing a message from our Central Broadcast Campus.
Depending on facility restrictions, Worship Experiences may include in-person or streamed worship and messages from our central broadcast campus. Each facility has a designated chapel or meeting room to hold the services as well as a specific day of the week and time set aside for Rock City. There is typically some time reserved before and after each service to allow volunteers to pray for and converse with the inmates. Some locations also allow some extra time for small group discussions after the message.
Many inmates consider Rock City Church to be their “home church, ” and our Worship Experiences may be the only religious option the facility offers. Many inmates are regular attenders to the Worship Experiences and can be every bit as vocal, engaged, and expressive during worship and the messages as the external campuses.
While we do not pressure inmates to attend a Rock City campus upon release, we do want to make sure that we provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where they can feel at home should they choose to visit. We do our best to foster friendships with the inmates during their incarceration and when applicable and welcomed, continue to follow up with them upon release.
SECTION 1: PRISON TEAM SERVING OPPORTUNITIES
PRISON SMALL GROUPS
WHY SMALL GROUPS
It is extremely difficult to Connect+Grow without embracing accountability and community. The enemy frequently tries to keep us stuck in isolation to prevent us from experiencing the freedom that is found in Christ (Ecclesiastes4:12,Galatians6:2,Proverbs18:1,etc.).
Rock City Small Groups are designed to help church members connect with a community of believers that are willing to go a little deeper into specific topics and provide accountability.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Our goal for the Prison Small Groups is to provide the same opportunity for community and accountability to our incarcerated brothers and sisters as we do for all of our other campuses. Volunteers will typically split up each week to lead or co-lead a Small Group at their designated facility during the day of the week and time set aside for Rock City by the facility. Some Small Groups meet weekly to discuss the most recent Rock City messages, while others may focus on a book / Bible study or another specified topic selected by the facility leader.
“Thankyouforbeingafriend. Sometimesahelloanda handshakemeanmorethanyou know,especiallyinhere.“
– PCI Inmate
INMATE PRAYER TEAM
WHY INMATE PRAYER TEAM
At Rock City Church, WE CELEBRATE - Every number has a name, every name has a story, and every story matters to God. One way we provide volunteers with the opportunity to support and champion our incarcerated brothers and sisters is through prayer. Their stories are still being written, and they need the prayers of the local church to overcome the challenges they face day in and day out.
WHAT TO EXPEC T: INMATE PRAYER TEAM
The Inmate Prayer Team exists to provide prayer support while inmates are still incarcerated. During the Prison Worship Experiences, Rock City Connect Cards are distributed to the inmates and many will fill out their prayer requests on the card. The prayer requests are later entered into Planning Center to be distributed to the Inmate Prayer Team for prayer. The Inmate Prayer Team volunteers are tasked solely to pray over the requests and are not authorized to make contact with an inmate.
“Thankyousomuchforyourtime inprayingovertheserequests.It stillamazesmethatyouactually takeyourtimetoprayfora completestranger.Thankyouand Godbless.“
– LoCIInmate
SECTION 2: PRISON TEAM
APPLICATION PROCESS
WORSHIP EXPERIENCES + SMALL GROUPS
APPLICATION PROCESS
• The volunteer completes Prison Team Interest Form: rckcty.tv/prisoninterest
• The volunteer completes Rock City Connect (if applicable).
• The volunteer completes a facility application (this will be emailed or texted to you).
• The application is submitted to the facility for approval.
• The facility will run a full background check on the applicant and review all documentation for approval. (Please note: this step is typically the lengthiest in the process and can take between 2 weeks to 6 months to complete depending on the facility).
• The facility will notify the Prison Team once the application is approved and the background check is cleared.
• The Prison Team Coordinator for Rock City will work with the facility to schedule an orientation for any approved volunteers.
• The volunteer will complete an in-person orientation and PREA training at the facility.
• The facility coordinator will add the volunteer to the weekly Gate Pass.
• The volunteer is added to the group in Planning Center, and the Team Leader is notified.
• The Team Leader connects with the volunteer to set expectations and answer any questions prior to the first visit.
• The volunteer completes the first visit and is officially part of the team!
INMATE PRAYER TEAM
APPLICATION PROCESS
• The volunteer completes Prison Team Interest Form: rckcty.tv/prisoninterest
• The volunteer completes Rock City Connect (if applicable).
• The Inmate Letter Response Team Lead contacts the volunteer to ensure they are a good fit for the team and help answer questions.
• The volunteer is reviewed for final approval by the central prison staff.
• The volunteer is added to the group in Planning Center and is officially part of the team!
SECTION 3: CONDUCT
WHEN SERVING
IN-PERSON VISIT DOS AND DON’TS
CONDUCT ABSOLUTELY OK PROCEED WITH CAUTION AVOID
GIVING OR RECEIVING ITEMS FROM INMATES
PHYSICAL CONTACT
SMALL GROUP ETIQUETTE
Notify Team Leaders and / or prison staff if an inmate attempts to hand you something to take out of the facility.
Avoid physical contact with an inmate.
Some facilities will allow us to exchange service-related items (DVDs, message notes, Connect Cards, etc.) with inmates. This should be verified with the Chaplain first.
Certain facilities allow some limited physical contact with inmates (fist bumps, shoulder taps, and handshakes). This should be verified with the Chaplain first.
Accepting gifts from inmates or giving anything to inmates (including letters, notes, and money) is prohibited.
Hugging, kissing, or holding hands with inmates is prohibited.
LEGAL ISSUES
Asking questions and active listening are strongly encouraged especially in Small Group settings. Let them talk!
You are always welcome to listen and pray with an inmate that comes to you with an issue they are facing.
INMATE LETTTERS + PERSONAL INFORMATION
Encourage inmates to send the church letters and artwork through the proper channels outlined by the facility.
PRISON STAFF Report any potential misconduct by prison staff to your Team Leader or the Chaplain.
PROMISES + COMMITMENTS
Follow through on the commitments you make to inmates, prison staff, and Rock City.
Share your experiences, but be careful not to overshare. These Small Group times are about them, not us.
Feel free to show empathy without taking sides if an inmate discusses their legal issues with you.
Most facilities will allow us to give the Church’s PO Box (PO Box 474, Hilliard, OH 43026) to an inmate if they would like to send the church a letter or artwork. This should be verified with the Chaplain first.
Show empathy if an inmate tells you about an issue they are having with prison staff, but avoid taking sides.
If a commitment was made and a conflict arises, it’s always a best practice to communicate that to whomever the commitment was made.
Talking over and interrupting inmates should be avoided.
Getting involved in an inmate’s legal affairs is prohibited.
Providing any personal contact information to an inmate (i.e., address, phone number, email, etc.) is prohibited, regardless of the situation.
We should refrain from talking down about a prison staff member to an inmate, regardless of the circumstances.
Avoid making any promises or commitments that you can’t keep.
ROCK CITY CHURCH
CONDUCT ABSOLUTELY OK PROCEED WITH CAUTION AVOID
PHYSICAL ALTERCATIONS
Notify a prison staff member immediately if a physical altercation arises.
WEAPONS If an inmate brandishes a weapon, comply until help arrives.
MANIPULATION OF PERSONAL INFORMATION
ROCK CITY LEADERSHIP + PRISON STAFF
Frequently remind yourself where you are, and be aware of your surroundings.
Comply with any requests from prison staff and Rock City leaders.
Feel free to initiate conversations with inmates, but remain alert and aware of manipulation tactics.
If a Rock City team member asks you to do something that you believe may be a violation of facility restrictions, please let your Team Leader or the Rock City Central Prison Staff know.
DO NOT try to break up a fight in the rare instance that one would occur.
DO NOT try to disarm an inmate in the rare instance that a weapon is brandished.
Never provide an inmate with information that they could use against you later.
A request by an inmate should never be prioritized over facility staff, restrictions, or policies.
PleaseunderstandthatyouarearepresentationofRockCityChurchtoallinmatesandprisonstaff.Ourrelationshipwith theinmatesandprisonstaffhingesonyourcooperationandcompliancewiththefacilityguidelines.Whenindoubt,ask yourTeamLeaderbeforedoingsomethingthatisquestionable.
“ThankyouforlettingmeknowI’mworthsaving! “
– RCI Inmate
DRESS CODE
• No chains or large buckles
• Appropriate undergarments must be worn (i.e., bra, slip, and underwear).
• No additional clothing is permitted to be carried into the visit.
• All attire worn into the facility must be worn for the duration of the visit, except appropriate outerwear such as a coat and gloves.
• Examples of prohibited clothing include, but are not limited to:
o See-through clothing of any kind
o Torn or ripped jeans or any holes in clothing
o Any clothing where the skin is visible or exposed.
o Halter/tube tops, cropped tops, tank tops, and/or muscle shirts
o Any clothing that inappropriately exposes undergarments.
o Skirts, dresses, skorts, shorts, and culottes with a hem or split cannot be above the knee.
o Low cut shirts
o Low rise pants
o Wrap-around skirts/dresses
o Breakaway pants
o Clothing with any gang-related markings
o Clothing with obscene and/or offensive pictures, slogans, language, and/or gestures
o Form-fitting or tight clothing (i.e., jeggings, leggings, fitted jeans, or tights)
o Camouflage
o Open-toed shoes or sandals
• The following items may set off the metal detectors delaying entry and your visit:
o Hairpins
o Underwire bras
o Certain boots and shoes
o Clothing with multiple or large zippers and/or buckles
o Excessive jewelry (seejewelry restrictionssectionforadditional details)
Pleasealsonotethatallelectronicdevices,including cellphones,smartwatches,andpagers,willnotbe permittedintothefacilityunlessapprovedinadvance.It isadvisedthatyouleaveyourcellphoneandany handbags,purses,backpacksandwalletsinyourvehicle duringyourvisit.
JEWELRY RESTRICTIONS
• Earrings must be basic stud or hoop style. If the earring is larger than 1 inch in size, then the earrings must be removed to be inspected by the Entry Officer.
• No necklaces of any kind are permitted entry.
• No bracelets of any kind are permitted entry, except silicone-style wristbands. These must be removed to be inspected by the Entry Officer.
• No watches of any kind are permitted entry.
• No fit bits of any kind are permitted entry.
• It is the Entry Officer’s discretion if a hair clip will need to be removed for inspection. If requested by staff, it must be removed for inspection before permitted entry.
• The only rings permitted entry are wedding rings/bands. No other rings are permitted entry.
MEDICAL NEEDS
Pacemakers and metal implants must have medical documentation to support passage through the metal detector. Prescription medications are authorized and must only be those taken during the visit and must be logged in entry at the officer’s desk. Oxygen, heart monitors, wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, and inhalers are permitted. In order to eliminate any undue delays, please advise staff of any special needs or equipment when scheduling your visit.
EXPECTATIONS
T IME COMMITMENT
The vast majority of our in-person prison locations meet weekly. Rock City Prison Team members are expected to serve a minimum of two times per month at their prison campus but are encouraged to attend every week when possible. We expect all volunteers to arrive on time or slightly early as tardiness can slow down the security check-in process for everyone.
COMMUNICATION
We understand that unexpected circumstances can arise, causing volunteers to run late or not be able to show up from time to time. In the event of an unexpected absence or late arrival, volunteers are expected to notify the Team Leader as soon as possible. If a volunteer’s location utilizes Planning Center for scheduling, volunteers are expected to communicate whether or not they will be attending a service or small group in advance so that the Team Leader is able to plan accordingly.
LEADERSHIP
We believe that leadership is 24/7, not just when we are actively ministering to others. As a team, we commit to being leaders in the way we live every day. We recognize that we represent Jesus, Rock City Church, and the Rock City Prison Team whether we are behind bars or not. This includes, but is not limited to, social media as well. We ask that you use wisdom when posting or commenting on social media to ensure that you are representing others in a way that is honorable and respectable.
ROCK CITY CHURCH VALUES
• THE VALUE OF ALL VALUES | WE ARE BECOMING FULLY DEVOTED FOLLOWERS OF JESUS
• WE ARE FOR THE ONE | Jesus came to seek and save the lost, and we, too, will pursue every lost one until every lost one is found.
• WE SAY THANK YOU | Because we are grateful.
• WE LEAD THE WAY IN RADICAL GENEROSITY | It is more blessed to give than receive and it is impossible to out-give God.
• WE ALWAYS BRING OUR BEST | Excellence honors God and inspires people.
• WE CELEBRATE | Every number has a name, every name has a story, and every story matters to God.
• WE ARE CONTRIBUTORS NOT CONSUMERS | The Church does not exist for us; we are the Church, and we exist for the world.
• WE ARE LASER FOCUSED | We can do more by doing less.
• WE GIVE UP THINGS WE LOVE FOR THINGS WE LOVE EVEN MORE | It is an honor to sacrifice for the cause of Christ and for the sake of others.
• WE WILL NOT BE COMPLACENT | A church that never stops going is a church that never stops growing.
• WE SHOW HONOR | To those who’ve come before us, to those who run with us, and to those who will carry the torch after us.
• WE WILL NOT TAKE THIS FOR GRANTED | We will seize every moment as if it’s our last.
“Thankyouforcominghere.You guysreallycareandbrighten ourday!!“
– CBCFResident
SECTION 4: REENTRY
ABOUT REENTRY
Once an inmate is released from incarceration, there are a plethora of new challenges that they will likely have to navigate. Depending on the duration and type of incarceration, some common practical challenges that an inmate may face post-release are:
• Housing
• Employment
• Identification
• Transportation
• Parole restrictions
• Health care
• Food
• Addiction recovery
• Unpaid bills, fines, and debt
• Rejection from family and friends
• Technology advancements
• Placement back into toxic environments
Nationally, 2 out of 3 inmates that are released from incarceration will return to prison or jail within 3 years. Looking at the number of challenges they have to face after release, it’s no wonder why the recidivism rate is as high as it is.
There are many organizations that have recognized this issue, and some have created very thoughtful programs to assist men and women after release. Many of these organizations have seen great success in reducing the recidivism rate (some below 5%) by providing holistic support for folks after release. That said, holistic reentry support is very expensive (typically between $8,000$12,000 for 6 months of support) and requires dedicated staffing to truly support someone after incarceration.
“RockCityChurch,[I]justwanted tosaythankyouforbeingthere whenIneededyou!Thisisthelast titheI’llbesendingyoufromprison becauseIhavereceivedparole! GlorybetoGod!!Seeyouall inAugust! “ – MCIInmate
SECTION 4: REENTRY
REENTRY PARTNERS
To help come alongside our brothers and sisters after they are released from incarceration, Rock City has strategically and financially partnered with a few local organizations that specialize in reentry. It's recommended that every Prison Team volunteer familiarizes themselves with our local reentry partners to be able to help guide an inmate to the proper channels should questions about reentry come up in conversation. Below is a list of Rock City's current reentry partners:
KINDWAY
• About: Kindway is a Christian-based reentry organization in the central Ohio area that specializes in holistic reentry support. Kindway's approach is a bit unique in that they begin the reentry process while a person is still incarcerated and then provide mentorship and resources post-release.
• Contact Options: stan.stever@kindway.org, christine.money@kindway.org
• Website: https://www.kindway.org/
CLEANTURN
• About: CleanTurn is a for-profit commercial cleaning company based out of Columbus, Ohio created to provide employment for men and women released from incarceration. The staff at CleanTurn are predominantly Christian and intentionally create a supportive, structured, and engaging environment for their employees. The executive staff at CleanTurn frequently goes above and beyond to provide additional support to their employees or potential employees to ensure a successful transition back into society.
• Contact Options: 614-447-0528, ashoup@cleanturn.com, jrush@cleanturn.com
• Website: https://cleanturn.com/
180 DEMO
• About: 180 Demo is a for-profit construction demolition company based out of Columbus, Ohio, created to provide employment for men and women released from incarceration. The staff at 180 Demo are predominantly Christian and intentionally create a supportive, structured, and engaging environment for their employees. The executive staff at 180 Demo frequently goes above and beyond to provide additional support to their employees or potential employees to ensure a successful transition back into society.
• Contact Options: 614-245-5489, info@180demo.com, jrush@cleanturn.com
• Website: https://180demo.com/
THE REFUGE
• About: The Refuge is a leading faith-based, nonprofit organization specializing in long-term addiction recovery for men. The Refuge takes a holistic addiction recovery approach lasting 13 months in order to ensure success.
• Contact Options: 614-991-0131 (Intake Phone Number), 614-571-3084, matt.hunnell@therefugeohio.org
• Website: https://therefugeohio.org/
SECTION 5: FAQS
Q: Can I serve at more than one facility?
A: Yes, but we do recommend starting with one facility at a time so you can get acclimated first.
Q: Where can I go to see all of the facilities and times to serve?
A: You can view all of the open serving options through the Prison Team Interest Form here: rckcty.tv/prisoninterest You will need to select your gender and then select your date/time preference under the “Prison Location Selection” dropdown. You can change your selection at any time to view the other available options.
Q: What do I need to bring with me when I visit a prison?
A: A state-issued ID
Q: How often am I required to serve if I sign up to serve at a prison location?
A: While there is no official “requirement,” we do ask that anyone volunteering on the Prison Team be willing to serve at least 2-3 times per month. Consistency goes a long way when fostering friendships with inmates.
Q: Do other volunteers carpool to the prison?
A: There is not an official carpool set up for volunteers to take to a facility, but once you have gone through orientation and are regularly serving, we encourage you to talk to the other volunteers to see if anyone would be interested in carpooling with you.
Q: Is volunteering at a prison safe?
A: While we can never guarantee anyone’s safety, there are very few safety-related incidents that occur involving volunteers. The inmates usually know that you are not paid to be there and are normally very happy to have outside visitors.
SECTION 5: FAQS
Q: If I sign up to serve for a Prison Worship Experience, what would I do?
A: You may be assigned a specific role (usher, greeter, hospitality, etc.) or you may be asked to jump in wherever there is a need. Since each facility is a bit different, connecting with your Team Leader before the service will likely help with identifying your specific role for each week.
Q: Can I bring a Bible into a prison with me?
A: Most facilities will allow a Bible, but some will require it to be listed on their Gate Pass before you can bring it in. The best practice would be to check with your Team Leader before attempting to bring anything into the facility.
Q: How old do I have to be to serve on the Prison Team?
A: Due to state regulations, all volunteers must be 18 years of age or older in order to serve inside the prisons. Volunteers under 18 years old may still attend any Prison Team-related special events as long as they are not held inside of a facility (ex: Prison Family Give).
Q: Can I still serve on the Prison Team if I have a record?
A: Absolutely! In fact, some of the most powerful testimonies come from those who were previously incarcerated and are now serving others who are currently incarcerated. That said, the prisons will run a background check to verify if any past offenses could be a security threat to their facility.
Q: Can I still serve on the Prison Team if I am related to or know someone who is incarcerated?
A: You can still serve on the Prison Team if you know someone who is incarcerated. However, you cannot serve at the same facility where they are incarcerated. You will also need to be sure to include their information in the 'Nexus' section of your facility application.
THANK YOU FOR MAKING HEAVEN FULL WITH US!
“WeloveRockCity.You’reahugepositiveimpactforusall.Thankyou! “ – MaCI Inmate
“IloveattendingtheRockCityservices.Veryopenandwelcomingtoall. It'sbeenalifechangeforme.“ – LoCIInmate
“Youguysaredoingamazingthingshereandhelpingalotofpeople.I’monly2monthsaway fromhome,andyouguyshave[given]meanew[out]lookatlife. “ – PCIInmate
