Prison Committee NEWDo all the good you can, With all the means you can, In all the ways you can, In all the places you can, At all the times you can, To all the people that you can, as long as you can. John Wesley This year we wanted you to hear the voices of those involved in prison ministry. The voices of those living in prisons who are members of our prison worship groups and the voices of those living outside prison who go behind the walls to pray. Voices Beyond the Walls “Prison cult groups continue to struggle with racial conflict and gang violence in a Quaker-style context.” “What will this place look and feel like in 30 years? If there are changes, who will make them, who will be first? It seems certain that this prison cult group and others like it have the information and energy to begin this work. " "Attica existed just over 30 years ago. Despite everything we complain about now, the fact is that prison conditions are much better today than they were 30 years ago. Change is possible. Don't give up. The changes we want are logical , humane and fair. This is an unbeatable combination." “Those of us in this Quaker meeting usually have interesting discussions when we reflect on questions for the Meeting Status Report. This year we found that, although some questions were less applicable to a prison meeting, we had an informative discussion on the issues of overcoming racism... and on our vision for the future. The question on racism has elicited various responses that we are more Caucasian than the general prison population. We have had more Latino and African American brothers among us. Some have questioned whether we are as welcoming as we could be. One person said that Quaker worship was “not by... paper......nincarceration if necessary. • Recognize the God-given capacity for redemption that lives in all humans. • Focus on rehabilitation, not punishment or revenge. • Help offenders work towards repentance and take responsibility for their crime. • Act with compassion, forgiving and promoting healing, without confusing forgiveness. with the acceptance of the crime.• Fairness. The rule of law must be applied equally to all, regardless of race, class, gender or income level. “The Quaker presence is much appreciated by the men” Those who worship with us behind the walls tell us that Quaker prison meetings provide a safe place of refuge and a basis for positive changes in life. If you would like to visit a Quaker prison meeting to share how the Spirit is moving in your life or regularly participate in a worship group, please contact us. The Prison Board needs you!