Yes, Virginia, good things CAN and DO happen behind prison walls! Granted, we don’t hear about them often enough, but yes, they do happen and continue to happen.
An incarcerated friend of mine recently told me about a group of men with whom he meets for their own bible study. That, in itself, is a very nice thing. But they go one step further. They take up a collection when they meet…for new inmates who have nothing. One man was lucky enough to have two tvs. Recently, he gave one of them to a new prisoner for four months until he gets settled.
They also get together to celebrate birthdays. They pool the treats they have purchased from their store orders and make feasts for all of them to share.
A group downstate periodically puts out requests for items like batting and thread – because there is a group of prisoners who make quilts, bags, stuffed hearts and bears for children of prisoners who attend the One Day with God Camp.
Bible studies and religious services within prisons are open to approved volunteers. To attend these is a rewarding experience for all. The prisoners are committed, aware of needs of family and friends, as well as of world events. They request prayers for needs that are outside of themselves. They have learned to care about others, and they express themselves well and without embarrassment. Their words are inspirational to me!
Volunteers write letters to prisoners, and also respond with prayer to prayer requests they submit. To know that they are not forgotten means the world to these men and women.
The Prison Creative Arts Program in Michigan annually exhibits both artwork and literary endeavors of prisoners. There is amazing talent inside those walls!
Yes, Virginia, good things are happening in there. I pray for the TRIUMPH of GOOD over the EVIL that still exists within.
The Prisoner's Prayer Book 