This is an overview for teaching the HATS classes. Methods of teaching will vary from individual to individual and as experience warrants.

Content in class
The instructor should feel free to add or omit class informational content from the seven subjects listed in the HATS Instructor Manual. The subject content is Bible based. This approach serves at least three purposes. One, references can be looked up by the attendees to get them to use their Bible. Second, Bible verses can be a jumping off point to share what the instructor would like to talk about. And three, the verses help the instructor to keep focused on Bible texts which the inmates can study on their own. The information in the HATS Instructor Manual can serve as a springboard for what the instructor would like to present. Also, there is more than enough content to use in an hour period. Content in teaching the class will expand or change as the instructor relates to the inmates and their needs. There is no reason to be concerned about an overlap of a subject from week-to-week. Extension of the classes format can be seen as a practical possibility. The important issue in teaching is to go with one's inspirational approach and demonstration in one's daily life.

The seven subjects and supplemental materials
While the HATS classes contain seven subjects, the supplemental materials have been developed as aids to expand on important, practical, spiritual issues to be discussed as needed. Class discussions will help the instructor to know what to do.

Graduation and number of classes
A HATS Certificate and the Prayer Guide are given out by the instructor after teaching the seven classes. However, one may wish to increase the number of classes for graduation, depending upon the particular jail, prison and the needs of the inmates. Inmates attend classes from usually about three months to as long as ten months. The instructor should not be concerned when attendees start attending the classes during any subject of the seven. As the inmates continue to come, they will receive the total HATS curriculm over time if they are truly serious about their spiritual growth.

Preparation Thoughts

Inspirational approach
Each instructor should keep his thought open to an inspirational approach when it comes to the type of content for the class. The instructor's own weekly Bible study, daily thought and actions, and prayerful preparation should largely determine the approach. The instructor should develop Bible research subjects as inspiration comes to one. The supplemental ones listed as part of the HATS Instructor's Manual are not an end-all as far as subjects are concerned.

Spiritual growth
As the instructor continues to teach the classes, the approach will evolve in a way that will be the most helpful to the attendees. If the instructor's approach is selfless and loving, it will be guided by spiritual growth.

Keep your thought open
It's important to keep one's thought open to new ideas to develop. Ideas will come as the instructor thoughtfully work to meet the needs of the attendees. Practical progressive solutions will appear.

Class Interaction

Focus of thought
First, one should keep thought focused on giving HOPE to the inmates. Second, focus should be gien on thoughts which show HOW the inmates can change their lives. Third, the instructor should expect HEALING through prayerful preparation.

Active interchange
The inmates will listen avidly as the instructor addresses directly what their major concerns are; and what is on their mind in the class session itself. The inmates will walk out of class gratified that they have received something from the class when there is this kind of heart-to-heart exchange.

Sample Handouts »