PRAM seeks to develop and encourage programs within participating parishes to support incarcerated men and women and their families, and to foster their successful transition back into the community through attitude adjustment and other assistance.

PRAM’s objective is to build a theological foundation with the congregations to help PRAM be sustainable over the long haul. PRAM is trying to move beyond the one or two person ministry, based on one person’s inspiration, to larger and more sustainable ministries. Currently, teams are visiting and holding focus groups inside the Monroe Correctional Facility (MCCF) in Brighton, NY. The program is being facilitated though a process modeled after Adult Children of Addiction.

Long term, relationships are being formed with the programs at the University of Rochester. Also, cooperative efforts are being developed with local non-profit organizations doing prison and re-entry work in the Rochester area, through the coalition of agencies known as Safer Monroe Area Re-entry Team (SMART).

St. Thomas’ congregation includes the names of individuals and their families who are a part of the focus groups in the weekly prayers of the people. In addition, the Fiber Ministry at St. Thomas’ makes prayer shawls for individuals being released. This provides a constant reminder of prayer and support in recovery.