Remember those in prison...

06Feb
Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them.

-Hebrews 13: 3


My daughter’s wife is a librarian at the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (formerly San Quentin State Prison) in Marin County, California. Although the death row inmates have been moved to other facilities, it remains a place of incarceration for thousands of men who have been convicted of violent and other crimes.


Charlotte started working there during the Pandemic after many years with the San Francisco Public Library. She liked the work immediately and felt that the residents (their preferred term) might benefit from her life-long love of needlework. She got permission to start a needlepoint group, believing those skills could be valuable to the men on many levels. The class was popular right away, attracting lots of participants. Some have become quite proficient and the men who participate take pride in their work and their accomplishments.


When I first heard that Charlotte was doing this, it tickled me as I tried to imagine a group of incarcerated men in their prison garb gathered together choosing thread colors for their needlepoint canvases. But, I think that’s exactly how it works! Charlotte is “in prison with them” and treats them as though they are companions on the journey, teaching them how to do something that has given her so much pleasure over the years. And it’s going strong! I’m inspired by Charlotte and I think she is modeling what St. Paul had in mind when he asked us to remember those who are in prison. 


Musical Reflection - Chain Breaker - Zach Williams


Dear God, there are prisoners behind unseen bars, as well. And while we may not be able to offer hands-on help to individuals in actual prison, we could be alert to recognizing those who feel incarcerated by unspoken circumstances in their lives. Open our eyes to their needs. Give us the ability to offer aid and comfort in a way that works for them. Amen.

Love Your NeighborCompassionFriendship

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