Religious ministry to the incarcerated is as old as incarceration itself. The long tradition of prison chaplaincy is continued in the Arizona Department of Corrections (ADC) through the services of a variety of different channels.

The Pastoral Activities program of the ADC consists of 44 chaplains and approximately 800 religious volunteers who provide religious services and coordinate religious privilege accommodation for the approximately 70 different religions routinely represented in the offender population.

While religious services are coordinated by the chaplains, these services are presented by both chaplains and the approximately 800 religious volunteers. In addition, other community groups and individuals assist with special services and seminars scheduled periodically at each complex.

An additional 200 volunteers assist the ADC with provision of other services, including substance abuse meetings, education, and administrative tasks.

Studies have shown that offenders active in religious programming are less likely to be involved in negative behavior within the institution, profit from a spiritual support system during transition, and also develop skills that enhance their chance for long-term success in society.

Providing offenders the opportunity to examine their behavior in the light of the teachings of their religious traditions assists in holding offenders accountable for their actions and presents them with hope for a change to more appropriate behavior and positive personal outcomes.

Religious Services ensures that offenders are provided access to religious activities, religious materials, religious diets, and other legitimate requirements of their faith. Regularly scheduled worship/study opportunities are provided for the religions represented in our offender population based upon inmate requests and available time and space for services.

Mission of Religious Services

To provide an opportunity for offenders to pursue personal development, find hope and understand accountability through connection with religious leaders and personal religious commitment.

Further Information