One of the greatest joys in my ministry as a chaplain is watching the faces of women as they realize I’m not going to condemn them for having a “non-Christian” faith practice. Sometimes they insinuate (or say it outright) that they have not felt this acceptance at other prisons. More often than not, in my experience, these women have roots in Christianity, but they have chosen to follow another practice. Some had horrendous experiences that sent them searching.
Yesterday, though, I had the joy of talking with a woman who grew up with a strong family practice of Native American spirituality. In the past I’ve spoken with several Cherokee and Lumbee women, but they did not seem to embrace their native spirituality. These conversations had hints of women being told or taught those ancient practices were wrong.
It will take some work, but I am so excited for the opportunity to learn from “S”. The first order of business is to request a visit from our American Indian Chaplain, Raymond Clark, to assist in purifying an area for a sacred prayer circle. I love to hear him play the flute. That music somehow reaches deep into my soul and draws me right into the Holy Presence. Aho.
