At present, verse by verse correspondence courses in Genesis, Job, Act, 1st and 2nd Corinthians are offered, free of charge, to anyone desiring to enroll. Four lessons at a time are mailed to the student. When these lessons are returned, they are graded and returned to the student with four more lessons. A certificate is awarded when the student completes the study. Only one course may be taken at a time.
"Reflections" is the LOOPS newsletter featuring articles by ex-inmates, loved ones, scriptural encouragement and other subjects of interest pertaining to prison.
The formulation of support groups consisting of an inmate's loved ones, ex-inmates and other concerned individuals. These groups have become a tremendous source of spiritual comfort and support. The format is very flexible and meetings can be sponsored by individuals, groups or churches. Training by LOOPS personnel is required prior to forming a support group. If you are interested in becoming a LOOPS support group leader, please contact LOOPS Inc. LOOPS also conducts classes for ex-offenders that provide training for re-entry into society and prevention of returning to prison.
In-prison seminars consists of three types: Discipleship, Marriage and Children.
Discipleship seminars are conducted Friday evening and during the day Saturday. Volunteers are utilized with group work and inmate participation. Some seminar programs are "Doing Time", "Dealing with Authority", "Garbage to Gems", "Keys to Bible Study", "ABC's of Christianity", "Ambassadors in Bonds", "Growing in Grace" and "Making it in Prison". Certificates are awarded to participants.
Marriage seminars consist of inmates and their wives being together for ten to twelve hours on Saturday addressing the stress placed on their marriage by incarceration, using Bible principles in the solution. Husband and wife volunteers are involved with inmate couples to facilitate group work. Meals are provided for the inmate couples, marriage vows renewal are optional and certificates are awarded.
Children seminars consist of children 1st thru 6th grade, accompanied by their mother. This is six hours of teaching activities that address the problems of incarceration placed upon each family member, especially the children. Again, volunteers are utilized in various activities, plus the noon meal and awarding certificates.
This program was begun in Ector County, Texas (Odessa), designed to serve everyone involved in the incarceration process in regard to spiritual needs. Chaplains are encouraged to be available to anyone in the jail setting that needs a listening ear, a helping hand or a word of encouragement, regardless of who that someone may be.