Clergy Visitation Policy

Effective February 1, 2005

General admittance into the facility for such a visit requires the presentation of a valid DMV identification card or valid driver’s license, and being at least eighteen (18) years of age. Status as a registered clergy member entitles a minister to hold a pastoral visit with an inmate. It does not include privileges to visit personal or family relations. After verifying the required materials, chaplains will approve ministerial visitation privileges and coordinate visits with the Shift Administrator/Front Desk Personnel.

Ordained clergy and licensed ministers who are associated with a church, christian group, or other religious order are eligible to receive a non-contact pastoral visit with an inmate incarcerated in the FCLEDC. These do not count towards the inmate’s two (2) visits per week limit. Clergy are allowed a thirty (30) minute daily visit in the regular visitation rooms during the following times: DAILY (except Friday):
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
3:00 - 5:30 p.m.

Process

An individual makes his/her request to visit an inmate known to the Front Desk Personnel or a chaplain.
If the minister’s name is already registered in the Ministers Visitation Book, he/she is granted a visit upon meeting the basic requirements described in the section above.
If the minister’s name is not registered in the Ministers Visitation Book, the Front Desk Personnel will provide the minister with a copy of the procedure and requirements. If necessary, the Front Desk Personnel can contact a chaplain in the building or the chaplain on call for assistance. The chaplain will explain the process and arrange a review of the minister’s documentation.
If a minister brings the necessary documents to the Front Desk for review, the Front Desk Personnel will contact a chaplain in the building or the chaplain on call to review them. The chaplain will arrange to review the minister’s materials before making a decision about the status of the minister’s visitation privileges.

Eligibility and Approval

Three (3) of the four (4) elements of proof are required:

Written documentation of ordination
Written documentation of holding a church ministry staff position
Written documentation of a ministry license
Written documentation of representing a church/religious order

Additional Information

Ministers seeking further clarification about this privilege can contact: Forsyth Jail and Prison Ministries
307 Craft Drive
Winston Salem, NC 27105
(336) 759-0063