For this month’s Writers Connection Thursday Sept. 22, we make our annual trek to the Oregon State Penitentiary for a Writing Outreach. We will present essays on the topics of 1) Re-entry into Society 2) Does rehabilitation work? 3) Second Chance – What do you consider it to be?
Last year they asked me to emcee the event, which is for the 7th Step program in the prison. I will do the same this year.
We are not allowed to take photographs, but last year they sent us photos of the event, which I need to scan and post.
It is an interesting and rewarding evening. I remember the first time stepping foot into the prison, and going through the several sections of gates and hearing the doors clang behind me as we got deeper and deeper inside the prison walls, until we were in the final meeting room. The prisoners are always very thankful and we share a mutual respect. They really appreciate our visit. I am reminded of the words of Jesus, in Matthew 25- “When I was in prison, you visited me. . .”
By way of reminder, we do need to be pre-approved for security purposes for this event and a limited number are allowed to attend (approved participants have received their confirmation emails). We leave at 4:30 from the church Thursday September 22. Participants need to bring ID, and wear no metal, jeans or jean material nor any light blue clothing.
Reminder for NEXT MONTH- Writers Connection returns to the third Thursday of the month, Oct. 20, where we will feature Gina Ochsner as our guest speaker. Details to follow.
Hi Rebecca-we missed having you- great to hear from you in Austin-…the evening turned out great and a man came to the Lord during the event we learned later!! …keep in touch- cornelia
O how I would love to participate in that event! I am enjoying the warm weather here in Austin and missing you all! As for your evening at the prison … enjoy it for me! The Lord will bless your words.
Truly ~ Rebecca Voigt