Md. Code Regs. 12.12.17.06

Current through Register Vol. 51, No. 22, November 1, 2024

Section 12.12.17.06 - Chaplaincy Services

A. Policy.

(1) It is the policy of the Institution that an inmate shall have absolute freedom of religious belief.

(2) Within security and program limitations, the Director shall ensure that each inmate has reasonable opportunity to exercise his or her religious beliefs.

(3) The Director shall ensure that each religion receives equal status and protection.

B. A chaplaincy service, in conjunction with other Institution programs and activities, presents the opportunity for an inmate to make incarceration a productive period of personal change and growth.

C. Inmate participation in religious programming is voluntary.

D. The Director shall ensure that religious services are conducted by chaplains or approved volunteer clergy and are available to the general inmate population.

E. Religious activities are subject to supervision by Institution security staff.

F. Abstention from Offered Food Items.

(1) An inmate shall be permitted to abstain from regularly offered food items that the inmate believes to be prohibited by the inmate's religion.

(2) A 7-day menu shall be posted on each side of the food serving line in a menu box with a glass front. Pork items shall be marked by an asterisk. Foods which are a nutritionally equivalent substitute shall be provided on the food line for inmates who require a pork-free diet.

G. Ceremonial Food Packages. When consistent with the operational capabilities of the Institution, food packages of a ceremonial nature shall be admitted during religious holidays. These packages shall be provided free of charge to the Institution in a factory-sealed container, and shall be subject to inspection and approval by the Director.

Md. Code Regs. 12.12.17.06