How Faith-Based Education in Prison Transforms Lives: Insights from a Mixed Methods Evaluation
Every year, millions of men and women cycle through the U.S. prison system, with the vast majority eventually returning to their communities. Yet, the journey from incarceration to successful reentry is fraught with challenges-recidivism rates remain stubbornly high, and many struggle to find stability and purpose after release. Amidst these realities, new research shines a light on the transformative potential of faith-based educational programs behind bars.
The Urban Ministry Institute: More Than a Seminary Education
The Urban Ministry Institute (TUMI) is a faith-based, seminary-level higher education program operating in dozens of state and federal prisons across the United States. But TUMI’s impact goes far beyond academic instruction. Recent evaluation results reveal that TUMI is equipping incarcerated men and women with the tools for Christian leadership, personal growth, and community service-both inside and outside prison walls (LaBarbera, 2023(b), LaBarbera, 2023(c)).
Researching Well-Being Behind Bars
To understand the scope of TUMI’s impact, a mixed methods evaluation was conducted with 266 participants, including both currently and formerly incarcerated individuals in Texas, Kansas, and California. The research combined focus groups and surveys, exploring participants’ experiences and measuring well-being using the Flourishing Scale (LaBarbera, 2023(b); LaBarbera, 2025).
Key Findings: Transformative Effects on Well-Being
The evaluation uncovered three primary themes related to well-being:
- Healthy Thinking Patterns: Participants reported that TUMI helped them develop self-awareness, self-respect, and a new sense of identity. Many described gaining confidence, academic self-efficacy, and the ability to view themselves as role models and leaders.
- Prosocial Behavior: The program fostered positive behavioral change, including improved impulse control, problem-solving skills, and freedom from substance use disorders. These skills are vital for navigating prison life and preparing for reentry.
- Positive Interpersonal Relationships: TUMI participants described stronger relationships with others, both inside and outside prison. The program’s emphasis on community and service encouraged empathy, cooperation, and support among peers.
Notably, participants scored exceptionally high on measures of psychological well-being, even when compared to other groups facing less adversity. This is significant, as low well-being is a known risk factor for recidivism.
Why Well-Being Matters
Research consistently shows that educational programs addressing mental health and well-being are most effective in reducing recidivism and supporting successful reentry (LaBarbera,2023(c)). By promoting healthy thinking, prosocial behavior, and strong relationships, faith-based programs like TUMI provide essential protective factors that help individuals overcome stress and adversity during and after incarceration (LaBarbera, 2025).
Beyond the Classroom: Lasting Change
The impact of TUMI extends beyond individual transformation. Participants often become leaders and mentors within their prison communities, contributing to a healthier institutional culture. After release, many continue to serve and lead in their neighborhoods, breaking cycles of reoffending and fostering hope for others (LaBarbera, 2023a).
Conclusion: A Path Forward
The evidence is clear: faith-based educational programs like The Urban Ministry Institute offer far more than theological training—they cultivate well-being, leadership, and resilience among incarcerated individuals. As correctional systems and communities seek solutions to the challenges of reentry and recidivism, expanding access to such transformative programs is a promising path toward lasting change (LaBarbera, 2023(b); LaBarbera,2023(c); LaBarbera, 2025)
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For more on this research and its implications, explore the full evaluation and related resources at https://doi.org/10.1186/s40352-025-00340-w
