Last Monday I celebrated Mass for the Solemnity of the Assumption of Our Lady at Dooly State Prison in Unadilla. These guys only get to attend Mass once a month. Since last month I was not able to go, they hadn’t attended Mass for two months. We arrived a bit late and the men were already gathered, eagerly waiting for us. They had just finished setting up the table and chairs in the multi-purpose room for Mass. Their faces lit up as soon as they saw Deacon Jim and me walk into their world through the secured door.
Prison ministry opens your eyes to an unfortunate and uncomfortable reality: we who are not in prison often take the Eucharist for granted. These men are hungering for Christ. These men are hungering for the Eucharist. Mass gives them an oasis to be strengthened with God’s grace and to rest in the Lord. It also provides them with an air-conditioned room during the scorching summer heat!
The truth is that some of the most pious and engaged congregations I have celebrated Mass for have been at Dooly State and Macon State Prisons. These men do not take their encounter with Christ in the Eucharist for granted. During the prayers of the faithful, they pour their hearts out to the Lord. They receive the Eucharist devoutly and meaningfully. Most kneel up against their chairs with their elbows resting on the bottom on the chair.
Prison ministry allows you to experience a manifestation of the mercy of Christ. These men are in prison, but they are free in Christ. To the world they are murderers, rapists, drug dealers, etc. but to God, they are His children and they know it. I have encountered great holiness in these prisons. I have encountered great love in these prisons. Those who have been forgiven much, love much – and this is evident in prison ministry.
Jesus called his disciples to visit those in prison. He has taught us that whenever we visit a prisoner, we visit Him. This is true. Prison ministry has led me to a closer encounter with Christ. I have found Christ in my ministry as a priest where I least expected to find Him. Actually, I have found Christ where I least wanted to find Him. I know I shouldn’t be surprised since God always seems to surprise me. Yet, I am surprised and grateful.
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