12/11/2020
At the dawn of 2020, my heart was full of excitement with the promise of growth and expansion. Our retreat program was thriving in 3 units at Monroe Correctional Complex and we were scheduled for a first retreat across the state at Coyote Ridge Corrections Center. Together with an advisory committee, we were putting together a business plan for the coming 3 years and I was elated at the possibility of hiring part-time support!
2020 had other plans for JRJI NW and for all of us. Yet from the Spirit and the generosity of so many, the Blessed and Beloved correspondence program was formed, followed by other new ways of continuing to provide support to our friends behind bars, including our monthly Pandemic Novenas, video and audio recordings and more.
Companioning presence is what JRJI NW is all about. Over the past 8 months, 75+ volunteer writers have become a lifeline of friendship and solidarity for participants who had grown to rely on our programs. I cannot thank them enough for being our “first responders”! They offer comfort, companionship and a faithful presence that says, “You are seen. You are not alone. You are not forgotten”.
No one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy. All are beloved of God. These are the foundational truths upon which JRJI NW stands. When I think of other 2020 highlights, I return to a moment before the pandemic began, during a visit to SOU, a unit that houses men with severe mental illness and those who have attempted to end their lives. It’s a hard place to do time - less programming, more hours each day alone in a cell and a much more restricted routine with fewer opportunities or privileges. Yet right there, in a place of so much suffering, I experienced a moment of exquisite tenderness.
I had just begun a communion service when a voice called out,
“Can I have an exorcism please?”
An exorcism? For a moment I froze. I felt panicked, not knowing what to do. When I looked up, I was staring right into the eyes of Gabriel, a gentle soul who is unfailingly kind to the other men. He suffers from schizophrenia which, combined with a drug problem, landed him in prison for a non-violent crime. He prays fervently for God to silence the voices in his head which will not leave him alone.
“I don’t know anything about exorcism, but I’d love to pray with you. Would it be all right if we all gather around?”
Imagine then a motley crew of wounded healers gathering in support around Gabriel, because that’s exactly what happened. Hands gently placed on his head or extended over him in blessing, men stood with heads bowed reverently - wild-haired, tattoo covered, hands shaking – a loving circle of solidarity, emanating a deep desire for Gabriel’s suffering to end. When Gabriel opened his eyes, another voice whispered, “Can I have an exorcism too?” It was a moment I’ll never forget.
All of us who are part of the work of JRJI NW have the rare privilege--be it through correspondence or physical presence--of walking closely alongside those whom much of society rejects as beyond redemption. We “defy that lie” by going to the darkest places and discover there is so much light, like the dazzling light that illuminated the men encircling Gabriel. We see God’s indelible brushstroke on each person and hold up a mirror for the beholder to recognize the same.
Thank you so much for your interest in JRJI NW and for your part in making our growing ministry possible. I wish you could witness directly the healing that takes place. At the end of our very first retreat day Bill, who had been praying for years to experience an Ignatian retreat, said with tears in his eyes, “This is a miracle. We are talking and listening to one another. We are becoming friends.” Retreat after retreat, similar sentiments are expressed. Thank you for helping to make these miracles possible!
As the end of the year approaches, I would like to invite you to join with us. If you are able to make a financial gift to JRJI NW, you will greatly aid our ability to encircle others with the kind of support for which Gabriel felt safe enough to ask. Information on how to make a gift is in the attached image; your support makes available an abundance of healing grace.
Know we are eternally grateful for your prayers as well!!
Should you want to reach out for any reason, please know I am always available to talk with you. Please don’t hesitate to email me at [email protected]
I wish you blessings and hope in this season of awaiting the coming of light.
Gratefully, Jennifer Kelly
Director, JRJI NW
