Write NC State Senators and Reps

I just recently learned that it is possible the Community Work Crew program is in jeopardy. I have been a chaplain at Swannanoa Correctional Center for Women (formerly Black Mountain Correctional) for almost two years. It has always amazed me what a difference the work crew can make in a woman's behavior, demeanor, and outlook. I've often wondered about it and even spoken with several inmates about why this is true. I always get the same answers: First, Mr. Hambor, their "boss" as they call him, has a positive influence on them. Second, they are able to stay busy every day, and they feel their work is truly worthwhile as they actually are able to give something back to the community. Third, work gives them a sense of purpose, something every human being needs.

We have several really great programs at SCCW, and they are essential to helping these women stay out of prison. And it's not all about keeping them out, either. I want them to learn to be good citizens. They will live in our neighborhoods, and how great for those who served on the CWC to aleady have a sense of pride about keeping the litter picked up. They also go out with the Black Mountain Beautification Committee and plant flowers. I think the grossest thing they do is clean up the Civic Center after things like the circus and concerts. They still do it with a sense of pride, though. One of the greatest jobs they do, however, is preparing and serving food at the Welcome Table. They get to work with a five-star chef who teaches them about the preparation of healthy food. Then they are able to see those who are able to pay a little extra for lunch enjoying a meal with folk who are hungry. True hospitality and love in action.

I know the North Carolina budget is in trouble. I know cuts must be made, but please, please write your legislators and ask them to keep the Community Work Crews in the budget.

Tenebrae

Last night about fifty inmates gathered with us in the chapel at Swannanoa Correctional Center for Women. As we were planning the service, Lynn and I wondered if we really wanted to offer this service of darkness. After all, it is very dark in prison. As I began to read more about the traditional service I realized you cannot truly appeciate the light of Sunday without the darkness of Thursday and Friday. And so it was.

Lynn led an amazing service of communion, and at one point she said she was going out on a limb and asked if anyone would like to offer a song. A young lady stood with some uncertainty, but soon it was obvious that a strength beyond herself flowed through her mouth, and the room was filled with the beautiful song of thankgiving. Holy ground.

As I looked into the eyes of each of those women and repeated those sacred words, "The body of Christ is broken for YOU," I could feel their gratitude. Holy ground.

The lights were dimmed, and one by one, women stepped forward and read a gospel passage, each extinguishing a purple candle. Darkness descended. The reading was completed by one of our faithful volunteers, Hamp, who fought back tears as he read about the death of Jesus and extinguished the Christ candle. His heart-felt words resonated throughout the room and tears fell.

Silently they left the dark room and walked across the dark prison grounds, yet as they lifted their eyes to the night sky, God provided the light of a full moon. Holy ground indeed, even behind the razor wire. Thanks be to God.