Saw something unique last Sunday when I went for the service at the Willow Creek Church, South Barrington (Chicago). The whole congregation was packing Christmas gifts for the prisoners.
The sense of involvement by every parishioner was written on each one's face. Like Heather Larson said "we want to be a church not only about words, but a church with action. We want to roll up our sleeves and do something now to bring hope to those who are in prison" She explained everything in detail, as to what has to be packed and how.
The sense of involvement by every parishioner was written on each one's face. Like Heather Larson said "we want to be a church not only about words, but a church with action. We want to roll up our sleeves and do something now to bring hope to those who are in prison" She explained everything in detail, as to what has to be packed and how.
Bryan Stevenson who is the founder of Equal Justice Initiative, is responsible for the reversal (or relief) of 125 wrongly condemned prisoners on death row. He says in 1972 US had three hundred thousand prisoners. To day the figure stands at 2.3 million people. His key word is "Redemption"
While this was going on, the kids were in an adjacent enclosure doing their bit and helping in the packing.
Later all held up the bags and prayed before it was packed into boxes and labelled.
I have put what ever I could capture into a short video so that you can see the flow of event.
I hope to attend one more service this coming Sunday before I leave Chicago. (the music and the singing is something that is very appealing)
I hope to attend one more service this coming Sunday before I leave Chicago. (the music and the singing is something that is very appealing)
15 comments:
125 wrongly condemned prisoners on death row. That is why I am so against the death penalty.
Unique indeed. I'm ambivalent about this. I'm against death penalty and for fair trials, but I'm always with the victims and think punishment for crimes should not be ridiculed by sending gift packs to the prisoners.
Hari OM
Definitely unique. Given that India has just released four wrongly-accused Brits (after four years of incarceration), I too am a supporter of a more just justice system everywhere in the world. Like Duta, though, I am wondering at the gift parcel idea; they are not prisoners of war, or refugees... hmmm, one to ponder. YAM xx
i like the idea! i think it shows what they believe - gods love to everyone. if one prisoners life can be changed then its totally worth it. i'm sure many inmates haven't been shown enough love in their life
I should imagine that some of the prisoners would not deserve a Christmas parcel from charity and other would, the wrongly accused.
It's a very nice gesture, but the USA sure needs penal reform.
A wonderful gesture.
I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas :)
Very inspiring post.
That's a beautiful gesture. Such deeds really really matter to so many people...God bless everyone, there
I hope this philanthropic attitude continues all year.
That's quite inspiring.
Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas.
All the best Jan
This is an amazing message. And what a meaningful way to celebrate the holidays! Merry Christmas!
I love packing shoe boxes for children overseas. That is what our church does, but this year, I didn't have the money. I was quite disappointed.
Thanks for visiting my Writing Nook a couple years ago. I have been locked out since then. Finally got back in.
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