International networks

A chaplain will help anyone who asks, including correctional staff and community volunteers. But even our very talented chaplains can't do it all. Each individual's spiritual path is unique, and it is our partnerships that complete the equation of effective ministry.

• Interfaith Committee on Chaplaincy – A committee of religious bodies in Canada who act as a liaison between faith groups and the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC). For example, the Interfaith Committee is crucial in the recruitment of chaplains across Canada. Read their MOU with CSC.
• Church Council on Justice and Corrections – A national coalition of churches who emphasize addressing the needs of victims, healing, and crime prevention. They are pioneers of the restorative justice approach.
• Canadian Families and Corrections Network – The CFCN is an information network for families of offenders. The Web site has some good resource materials for both adults and children, as well as resources for offenders themselves.
• National Associations Active in Criminal Justice – Simply stated, the NAACJ's mission is to give a unified voice to its impressive list of member organizations and contribute to a just, equitable and effective justice system in Canada.
• Bridges of Canada - the national provider of chaplaincy services in CSC.
• Faith Community Reintegration Programs (FCRP) - FCRPs provide faith-based support for recently released offenders returning to the community.

At the Correctional Service of Canada, Chaplaincy Services often works in the following areas:

• Restorative Justice – Restorative justice is an effective approach to justice that emphasizes repairing the harm caused by criminal behaviour.
• Victims Services – Victims of crime deserve an effective voice in the criminal justice system. They have the right to know about any parole hearings or release dates of the offender who harmed them, as per Section 26 of the CCRA.

• International Prison Chaplains Association – An organization that recognizes the institutional life of prison chaplains can sometimes isolate them from their faith communities. The IPCA helps chaplains worldwide stay connected with some good resources.