ABSTRACT
This chapter offers a survey and update regarding the changing role of religion in US correctional programming. Drawing from archival and site-based research, this chapter explores issues regarding “religious establishment” versus “religious liberty” in US corrections. While religious programs offer powerfully transformative access to social capital for many prisoners, the growing prominence of religious volunteers with program authority over US prisoners raises both opportunities and concerns. The changing role of religion in US prisons will be explored in four key areas: lack of state neutrality toward religion, excessive state entanglement with religious service providers, inadequate solicitation of alternative programming, and a de facto measure of coercion in delivery of services. The chapter concludes with grades in each area and a set of recommendations.
