An investigation of the transformative potential of spirituality in the lives of Christian (ex-) prisoners and the implications for community chaplaincy

What Was Investigated and Why?

To enable better resettlement support by community chaplaincy, more knowledge is needed of the transformative potential of Christian spirituality – the lived experience of faith – of (ex-) prisoners. This research contributes to that knowledge by presenting their voice to the tradition.

How Was the Topic Investigated?

Using spiritual direction as a methodology and the framework of dialogical narrative analysis, I present three prisoners’ stories of transformation, engaging in three areas of Christian experience. Firstly, traditional associations with transformation, belief, self-surrender, metanoia, and epistrophe. Secondly, the Christian narratives of cruciformity, conformity (through kenosis), and theosis with which I parallel the men’s narratives. Thirdly, anthropological spirituality, enabling dialogue with secular spiritualties.

What Was Found?

I argue that for (ex-) prisoners, Christian transformation (metanoia) is less concerned with sin, repentance, or atonement, than a vision of theosis, rooted in cruciformity and conformity to a kenotic way of life. The men’s ‘cruciformity’ was felt as isolation, institutionalisation, the need for identity and love, addictions, and the stigma of prison. Transformation included a changing picture of a God of love; being made in God’s image and epistrophic return to the true self. Self-giving and trustworthiness modelled by Christians encouraged conformity, contributing to theosis. Alcoholics Anonymous inspired an understanding of spirituality which the ‘church’ failed to develop thus increasing isolation. Community chaplaincy was vital to embed transformation in community.

What Conclusions Were Drawn From the Evidence?

Deeper engagement with the men’s spirituality – their lived experience of the faith – alongside the physical support offered by community chaplaincy is vital to this group of men. Volunteers or chaplains need spirituality and theological training to support prisoners’ Christian spiritual experience and knowledge of secular spirituality. Prison chaplaincy is effective at institutionalised support, but structures and models of living need to focus on resolving (ex-) prisoners’ challenges and reconciliation in the community. This requires knowledge of their experience of cruciformity, their theological imagery, and encouragement of a more epistrophic return to God affirming original self-worth and kenotic self-giving, enabling an understanding of ethical practices.