God behind Bars: An Empirical Approach to Prison Ministry in the United States and Germany

This first empirical study on differences between prison ministries in the US and Germany enables a dialogue between chaplains of both countries. What can they learn from each other? What do they have in common - that thus has been transculturally tested? The divergent theological-philosophical backgrounds of the two criminal justice systems are presented along with their different accentuations of retributing punishment and rehabilitating restoration. Religious extremism of inmates and "switching" of religious orientation in prisons are discussed, the roles of volunteers assessed, and promising restoration methods presented - such as the so-called "Circles" or religion-related rehabilitation programs, which have been proven to reduce recidivism by changing inmates' mindsets. The book examines chaplains' working styles in ten fields of activity as well as their theological and political leanings, their job satisfaction and factors contributing to overload, their time management, and their "dreams" of what could be done better. Dr. Daniel Birdsong Lampe is a German and American citizen. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Heidelberg in Germany and his M.Div. from Duke University Divinity School in North Carolina, USA. At Duke, he also attained special training in clinical pastoral care and prison ministry. As chaplain, he experienced ministry within the American penal system. He currently lives in Heidelberg, working with integration of migrants.