Hey, whatever works. There's this thing called parole and hanging out with people who are trying to make a good impression is a good idea if you want to get out or survive IMO.

Because they ARE in prison and are hoping there is some divine intervention, because they are looking for an opiate of any kind, because they have no hope otherwise, because they want absolution for their "sins"? And, religion is another way to get "high." Think pentacostal worship services : )

They are trapped in a smaller box, and need to escape reality.

I think the word "irrational" has something to do with it.

Because they are scare of not being forgiven by god and they need to put a front of rehabilitation for the parole board. I asked an ex con and he give me the answer I am putting here.

something to fight the boredom.