how to send a bible to an inmate

2 min read 07-02-2025

Sending a Bible to an incarcerated loved one can be a powerful way to offer support and spiritual comfort. However, the process isn't always straightforward. This guide will walk you through the steps, addressing common challenges and ensuring your gift arrives safely.

Understanding Prison Regulations: The First Step

Every correctional facility has its own rules. What's allowed in one prison might be prohibited in another. This is the most crucial piece of information to obtain before you even think about purchasing a Bible.

Contacting the Correctional Facility:

Find the correct contact information: Locate the specific prison's website or contact the facility directly by phone. Look for an "inmate correspondence" or "inmate mail" section.
Request the Inmate's Mailing Address: You'll need the inmate's full legal name and identification number to confirm their location and get their correct mailing address. This address will often differ from what you may expect.
Inquire about permitted items: This is the most important step! Ask explicitly about sending religious materials, specifically Bibles. Find out about restrictions on size, type (hardcover, paperback), publisher, and whether or not the Bible needs to be new. Some facilities only allow religious items from approved vendors.
Inquire about inspection procedures: All incoming mail is inspected. Be aware that your Bible may be checked for contraband. Some facilities may even remove or destroy pages they deem inappropriate, despite it being a standard version of the Bible.

Choosing the Right Bible

Once you have the necessary information from the prison, you can choose a suitable Bible. Consider these factors:

Size and weight: Prisons often have restrictions on package size and weight. Smaller, paperback Bibles are usually preferred for ease of handling and transport.
Type: While a beautiful, leather-bound Bible might be a thoughtful gift, a more durable and simpler version might be a more practical choice given the prison environment.
Version: Select a translation that you believe your loved one will find most accessible and comfortable to read. Common versions include the King James Version (KJV), New International Version (NIV), and English Standard Version (ESV).
Publisher: Some prisons have approved lists of publishers. Check your facility's rules before making your purchase.

Preparing and Sending the Package

After you've chosen your Bible, carefully package it:

Use sturdy packaging: Protect the Bible from damage during transit. A simple cardboard box is ideal.
Address it clearly: Use a permanent marker to clearly write the inmate's full name and identification number, along with the prison's full address.
Consider a return address: Many institutions insist on a return address for rejected items.
Use appropriate postage: Ensure sufficient postage to avoid delays.
Avoid additional items: Unless explicitly permitted, avoid including anything else in the package.

What to Do if Your Bible is Rejected

If the prison rejects your package, contact the facility immediately to inquire about the reason. It may be due to the size, publisher, type, or something found during inspection. You may need to try again with an approved version.

Alternative Methods: E-books and Audio Bibles

If sending a physical Bible proves impossible, explore digital alternatives:

E-readers: Some prisons allow inmates to have e-readers with pre-loaded content. Verify this with the facility.
Audio Bibles: Some prisons may permit audio devices. Again, check the institution's policy.

Sending a Bible to an inmate is an act of kindness and support, but it requires attention to detail and following the prison's specific regulations. Remember to always contact the correctional facility first – this will save you time and ensure your gift reaches your loved one.