Session 2: Incarceration from a Family Perspective

Presenter: 
Rev. Dr. Traci Blalock Phillips

Discussion Questions:

Exploring Disenfranchised Grief in Incarceration Contexts

Dr. Phillips introduces the concept of 'disenfranchised grief' to describe the unique and often unrecognized emotional struggles faced by families of the incarcerated. Reflecting on her insights, how can faith communities and leaders better recognize and address this specific form of grief to support these families effectively?

Challenges and Opportunities in Prison Ministry

Considering Dr. Phillips' journey and her emphasis on comprehensive prison ministries, what are the key challenges that faith leaders and communities face in establishing effective prison ministries? How can these challenges be transformed into opportunities to foster healing and spiritual growth both for the incarcerated and their families?

Resources

  • Cudjoe-Wilkes, Gabby, and Andrew J. Wilkes. Psalms for Black Lives: Reflections for the Work of Liberation. Nashville: Upper Room Books, 2022.
  • Goode, W. Wilson, Charles E. Lewis, and Harold Dean Trulear. Ministry with Prisoners & Families: The Way Forward. 1st ed. Valley Forge, PA: Judson Press, 2011.
  • Henning, Kristin N. The Rage of Innocence: How America Criminalizes Black Youth. First edition. New York: Pantheon Books, 2021.
    Phillips, Dr Traci Blalock, and Dr Harold Dean Trulear. From The Playpen To The Penitentiary: Afromanticism. Independently published, 2022.
  • Trulear, Harold Dean. Healing Communities USA Training Guide: Balancing Justice With Mercy. Edited by Denise Strothers. Kindle., 2021.
  • Balancing Justice with Mercy: An Interfaith Guide for Creating Healing Communities: https://assets.aecf.org/m/resourcedoc/aecf-BalancingJusticewithMercy-2008.pdf

Next Steps

  • Call to Action: Reach out to a community organization working with families affected by incarceration. Offer your support or engage in a conversation to understand their challenges and needs. How might you remain connected with them in a significant way? List the organization in the forum to create a running list of organizations for participants. 
  • To prepare for session 3, reflect on the role you believe faith leaders should play in justice work. How can they effectively use theological insights and biblical teachings to address modern-day injustices?