Circle of the Word involves a range of supplies, papers, and other materials. Managing all this stuff is part of the work. You’ll need something to take it in and bring it out. I use a big bag that has exterior pockets. I have seen others use small rolling suitcases for jail programs. Something that closes at the top would be nice. I have to wrap my bag in plastic when it rains. You have to be careful to pack everything you need and then to get it all back again when the Circle is over, except for the approved hand-outs (my participants keep the story map).

To help me remember what I need to pack, I use a checklist. Download a sample materials checklist here…

For talking pieces and visual storytelling I often use materials crafted to accompany specific biblical stories available at Worship Woodworks. These materials are designed to use with children, but most adults enjoy them as well. I discovered this on a biblical storytelling mission trip to the West African country of Cameroon.

I use a small table-top pocket chart to hold graphics or other papers for display (like the check-in and connections charts). I set this on a chair next to me in the Circle. This prevents me from breaking the Circle by standing up and maintains a more egalitarian atmosphere. Pocket charts are available at school supply stores.

Some of the story pages on this site have photos of talking pieces I have used for those particular stories. These are just to give you an idea of the kind of things you might use. Be creative and try to use things you have around the house or church. Or ask you friends. This is a great way to make use of knick-knacks, which some of us have far too many of!

Certificates

Award a certificate for participation in Circle of the Word after an announced number of classes. These are an occasion for acknowledging, affirming, and celebrating something positive the inmate has done for their personal and spiritual growth.

If you are leading your program in a prison with a stable group you will award this at the end of the session. Occasionally this is possible in a jail as well, but if you allow new people to enter at any time, as I do, it’s difficult. At the jail I award a certificate for every four sessions that an inmate attends.

Here is a sample Circle of the Word certificate which you may freely adapt to suit your situation. (This is a Microsoft Word document.)