How does the body of Christ respond to the complex web of human tragedy represented by mass incarceration? Clearly there is a need for the church to engage in social action to address the systemic injustices that caused and that maintain mass incarceration. The church needs to function in its prophetic role. At the same time, there is the need for grass roots ministry with specific individuals, fulfilling Jesus’ mandate to visit those in prison (Matthew 25:31-46).

Last summer I attended an immersion experience at an Ohio state prison for a group of Christians from around the country. The group was mostly United Methodists, whose Board of Church and Society sponsored the “All In” experience. But we were also Lutheran, United Church of Christ, and probably a couple other flavors of Christianity as well. For three days we met with the “men in blue” in small groups and in plenary sessions.

On the second day the men were asked to give their recommendations for positive action to address mass incarceration. The next morning they presented a thoughtful list of varied suggestions. Their spokesman concluded the presentation with the tag line, “Do something.” This became a catchphrase for the whole group.  If the church’s work is guided by informed reflection on current realities, prayerful discernment of God’s will, and deep knowledge of biblical stories, those who follow the call to “Do something” can act with confidence whether their approach is systemic, interpersonal, or a combination of both.