| Religious Services - Frequent Questions |
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| May I send a book to an inmate? |
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Books (sacred or not) must be sent in accord with the Mail Rule. Simply, books must come directly from the publisher or an authorized distributor.
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| Can my spouse get his/her wedding ring? |
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Wedding bands are authorized through the chaplain's office. The ring should be mailed directly to the chaplain. If the ring meets department standards, the chaplain will authorize the ring to the inmate. A record of receipt will be forwarded to the inmate's property list.
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| What do I need to do to be a volunteer? |
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You need to fill out a volunteer application, pass a background check, and attend an 8-hour training session. Also, we look at our need for the specific religious service you provide.
Religious volunteers are authorized to bring certain items into the institution to facilitate their activity. Authorized Items
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| What are religious diets? |
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The Oregon Department of Corrections accommodates an inmate's need for a mandated religious diet in two ways:
- Meat Alternative Tray, a meat/meat product-free meal, always available.
- Kosher Diet, a diet prepared and served in accordance with the religious dietary requirements of Kashruth. Available to certified Jewish inmates only.
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| Can an inmate get married while incarcerated? |
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The Oregon Department of Corrections permits inmates to be married within its correctional facilities. The marriages take place twice a year, on the fourth Mondays of April and October. Inmates may request the necessary forms and marriage application from staff.
All guests must be approved for privileged visiting. No food, cameras or special clothing may be brought into the facility for the marriage.
For further information about being married within DOC institutions refer to the Department of Corrections Rule on Marriages (Inmate) OAR 291-133-005 through OAR 291-133-045, Rule #133.
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