This first empirical study on differences between prison ministries in the US and Germany enables a dialogue between chaplains of both countries. What can they learn from each other? What do they have in common - that thus has been transculturally tested? The divergent theological-philosophical backgrounds of the two criminal justice systems are presented along with their different accentuations of retributing punishment and rehabilitating restoration. Religious extremism of inmates and "switching" of religious orientation in prisons are discussed, the roles of volunteers assessed, and...