byDale Russell
*“I had been shouting so much that I’d lost my breath, and just then the jailers rushed in and started trying to release the chaplain from my grip. One of them moved as if to strike me. The chaplain quietened them down, then gazed at me for a moment without speaking. I could see tears in his eyes. Then he turned and left the cell.”
*The Stranger by author Albert Camus
For 15 years we have had the joy and privilege to know dozens of prison chaplains. Most of the time they were our front line, go-to people, to enter the prison door. It would be easy to say 90% of them were genuine believers, and are always a joy to work with. Each of the visits to the prisons requires communication with these special folks.
One of our long term chaplains, Tom Armstrong, was interviewed a couple of years ago and described his role as chaplain, the important aspects of the position, and his thoughts on observing Visions of Hope.
*Every cell holds a story, a life discarded by society.
(1:32 min)
“Lift my captive soul from this dark prison
so I may render to You my gratitude;
Then Your righteous people will gather around me
because You will treat me with astounding goodness.”
Psalm 142:7
*Behind each cell door, a person yearns to be seen, heard, and understood.
(1:42min)
“You will help the blind to see.
You will free those who are in prison,
and you will lead those who live in darkness out of their prison.“
Isaiah 42:7
*Society creates prisoners, but it is also our responsibility to restore their humanity.
(2:50 min)
“Remember those who are in prison as if you were in prison with them.
Remember those who are suffering as if you were suffering with them.“
Hebrews 13:3
* In prison, hope is a flickering candle that never fully extinguishes.
(1:28 min)
“Master, when did we find You hungry and give You food?
When did we find You thirsty and slake Your thirst?
When did we find You a stranger and welcome You in,
or find You naked and clothe You?
When did we find You sick and nurse You to health?
When did we visit You when You were in prison?“
Matthew 25:37-39
*Quotes from American Prison by Shane Bauer.
Have you considered all of Matthew 25?
For most of us, we can check all the boxes until we get to the last one.
What will you do with that?
Let’s talk. 541-420-6611 info@visionsofhope.org