Training Field Ministers.
Transforming Prison Culture.
Groundswell Prison Network is a collaborative movement that identifies, equips, and mobilizes incarcerated individuals to serve as spiritual leaders throughout correctional facilities, transforming prison culture from the inside out.
Prison Culture
Every correctional facility has a culture.
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Beyond policies, programs, and security protocols, there is an unwritten environment that shapes the daily lives of everyone who lives and works there. This "prison culture" influences how people relate to one another, how conflict is handled, whether trust is possible, and what behaviors are rewarded or discouraged.
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For many incarcerated individuals, prison culture is defined by survival rather than growth. Fear, isolation, hopelessness, manipulation, gangs, addiction, violence, and deep mistrust often become accepted realities of everyday life. Even where correctional staff work tirelessly to create safe and constructive environments, these cultural pressures can make lasting personal transformation and moral rehabilitation difficult.
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Groundswell Prison Network is a collaborative movement committed to transforming prison culture by identifying emerging leaders from within the incarcerated population, equipping them through theological education and leadership development, and mobilizing them to serve as mentors and spiritual leaders throughout their correctional facilities.
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We call them Field Ministers.
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Healthy prison cultures are built when trust replaces suspicion, service replaces self-interest, and hope overcomes despair. As Field Ministers faithfully serve those around them, they become catalysts for positive change within the prison community.
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Their influence extends beyond the chapel walls into housing units, classrooms, work assignments, recovery groups, and everyday interactions. Over time, these faithful leaders help cultivate a culture of life, hope, and flourishing that reflects the kingdom of God.
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Jon Wiest
​​​​Founder & Director
Groundswell Prison Network
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Director of Prison Theological Education
Wesley Seminary
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