Row Over Religion's Role in US Jails

June 25, 2007

Author: Justin Webb

Source: BBC News

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/6228854.stm

Supporters of President George W Bush say it's one of his greatest achievements: encouraging religious organisations to help with the provision of basic social services.

Bobby Lytle says the InnerChange programme has changed his life

The White House has doled out millions of dollars of public funding to these bodies - many of them representing evangelical Christians.

But in one area an effort is being made in the courts to stop the practice.

The "InnerChange Freedom Initiative" has seen evangelicals take over wings of prisons around the nation and set up special courses for chosen inmates.

Supporters say it cuts down repeat offending - but opponents say it is evangelism by the back door, paid for in part by the state.