I was naked and you gave me clothing,
I was sick and you took care of me,
I was in prison and you visited me.
    Matthew 25:3

Christmas dinner can be a wonderful occasion. With family, friends, gifts, good food, laughter, a time to remember for many years. Let us tell you about a different Christmas dinner, a somewhat strange Christmas dinner, a dinner that has come to be known as -- My Dinner at Clinton State Prison.

Several years ago, a person we knew casually, not quite a friend, got into some serious trouble. At that time, when she desperately needed friends and support, her husband walked away from her, her children did not visit her, the rest of her family either disowned her or was too old and living far away. I guess the Lord decided to select us, timid, hesitant, reluctant us, to go and tell her The Lord Loves You.

At Christmas time, the prison allows inmates, who have shown good behavour during the year, to invite guests to share a dinner party. This means the inmate may enjoy a quiet meal in pleasant surroundings, rather than the usual chaos and regimentation of the big dining hall. Because we were going into the prison, rather than the usual visiting room, there was a rather stringent inspection. I shall always remember being checked out by a huge German Shepherd dog. Mental note as he shoved his muzzle into my pockets to sniff around: Next year buy fresh clothing, wash with strong bleach.

Dinner was a selection of hot dogs, with macaroni and cheese, side salad and dessert. After dinner, we spoke with several of the women, sang some carols. Then, some of the women spoke about their lives. They stressed how they planned to straighten themselves out, to lead a new life. They would never be back in prison again. A particularly heartbreaking moment when considering a recidivism rate of about 70 percent.

As we drove home, heading south on Route 31, that clear, cold evening, both of us in quiet, deep depression, was the Lord's love and forgiveness shining over Clinton? I hope so.

       Loving heavenly father,
Comfort those who are lost and lonely
Hear the prayers of those who are grieving and sad
Remember those who are far from home or along
Inspire your children to reach out to those in prison
Send your blessings to the poor and needy
That all may know the love, joy, peace and hope of this Holy Season.

Epilogue
Our friend completed her sentence a few years ago. Her experience strongly affected her outlook and behaviour. She has a job and has found some one to share her life. She has had some limited, uneasy contact with her children. It's been a difficult start, but maybe the relationships will grow. She has moved away to a new life. We don't have contact with her any more, except for an occasional email.

During the time we were visiting the prison on a regular basis, we lost a few friends who disapproved of the person. We were warned several times of the many bad things that could come of our relationship. Finally, there was that problem with the local police, coupled with some nasty legal bills.

Contributed by Rosemary
Sunday December 23, 2007
Liturgical Year A Week 4