Christian Re-Entry Assistance Program
Christian Training School for Ex-Offenders (CTS) began in 1983 as part of Kings Crossing Prison Ministries. Originally a 90- day, 12-bed residential aftercare program for Christian Males, it was extended to 120 days. The residence was a 3400 square foot structure with separate quarters for the “resident manager” and his wife. Classroom instruction was given six hours per day, Monday through Friday, utilizing church staff, leaders, and area ministers. The basic curriculum was Old Testament Survey, New Testament Survey, Do’s & Don’ts for Christians and, Why I’m a Member of the Lord’s Church. Assignments, daily/weekly tests, term papers, and a final exam per course preceded a formal “Graduation.” The final month was spent finding employment and transitioning into a place of their own. The residential and “classroom instruction” aspects ended in 1993. Over ten-years, 75 men from twelve states participated. Some financial assistance came from sister congregations, individual Christians, businesses, and foundations. State and federal tax dollars were not accepted.
Why was the residential program discontinued? Here is a list of major factors:
1. The primary motive of most CTS applicants was to find an address to parole to while the primary purpose of CTS was to “more perfectly teach” and “ground” them in the faith. A “disconnection” between these goals created conflict.
2. In the beginning, CTS sought to create a class/group of twelve Christian men at the same spiritual place and gradually mature them in faith and practice. By narrowing the field to baptized believers, we anticipated great success. However, each man was in a different place (his own place) with differing needs.
3. With a group of twelve, rules and regulations applied equally did not allow for individual needs. There were also physical, learning, and psychological differences.
4. We failed to properly assess and address the power of chemical addictions, the need for skilled/ongoing treatment, and the natural attraction between sexes.
5. Ministering to a group of twelve required enormous financing, beginning with the “Resident Manager.” We believe the “Resident Manager” plays the most critical role. Hidden costs were underestimated. The expense of the residence, utilities, maintenance (inside and outside), furniture, appliances, repairs, etc., was unexpectedly high.
What are the advantages of CTS as it operates today?
1. We are no longer “property owners” with its associated expenses.
2. We minister to ex-offenders wherever they live . . . halfway houses, with family or friends, in a place of their own, etc.
3. By coming to us for help – voluntarily – we gauge levels of interest/commitment.
4. We are not limited in number - especially not twelve.
5. Not limited to “male” ex-offenders, but females also.
6. Ministry to ex-offender “families” (spouse/children).
7. We “tailor” studies and assistance to individual needs (including non-Christians).
8. If an ex-offender messes up, it occurs prior to a steep 90-day investment. The depth of assistance given is in proportion to the depth of the ex-offender’s desire.
9. We try to immediately incorporate the ex-offender into the congregation. A congregation is limited in the number of ex-offenders that can be effectively assimilated at the same time.
10. Ex-offenders are quickly engaged in Christians Against Substance Abuse and become volunteers in the many aspects of Kings Crossing Prison Ministries.
How does the current process work?
1. We prefer to know when an ex-offender is to arrive (two years notice is ideal). We maintain a file on each, allowing us to be prepared to meet individual needs.
2. The local District office of the Board of Pardons & Paroles for the State of Texas conducts an “Orientation” twice monthly for new parolees. We are present or provide information packets. Since its inception 20 years ago, we have served on the Community Partnership Council for the local parole board.
3. Too often, an ex-offender just “shows up.” Scheduling an appointment helps. It all begins with an assessment of needs, including those of a spiritual nature.
4. If the person was active in Bible studies, we seek to resume the study.
5. In the initial interview, we communicate was we can help to meet his/her needs:
- Texas parolees are required to attend two 12-Step meetings every week.
- We give them a list of weekly CASA meetings.
- We share a list of companies who hire felons.
- We share “Street Sheet” – a list of resources (medical, dental, housing, food, clothing, etc.).
- Through our “Little Angels” program, we offer $25 Wal-Mart gift cards for children (birth-12). • The Texas Inmate Families Association (TIFA) support group meets in our office complex on the second Tuesday monthly, 7-8 p.m.
- Most parolees have personal needs (hygiene items, underwear, work clothes, etc.). Some have start-up needs such as kitchen items, plates, silverware, pots/pans, etc. Others need furniture, appliances, etc. These are addressed individually.
- Information concerning Kings Crossing Church of Christ is shared – our location, phone number, times of assembly, etc.