The bad news for 2007 is that HMP Wealstun still hasn't shut up shop. It is still a fully functioning prison, even more fully occupied since last year, with a full complement of spiritual and emotional needs. The good news is the same good news that Elisha had for his servant, namely that the army on the plain is smaller than the army on the mountain. God is in charge and Satan is living on borrowed time.
The team
From King's - Margaret B, Cath F, Ruth and Stephen T, John K, Sheila D, Cyndy K, Mark K and Sue M. Welcome to Mark who will be joining us in November. Sue will be leading a small group on Sycamore Tree. More below.
We also value the ministry of Peter and Lorna M and Sylvia C from the Life Destiny Church in Harrogate.
We continue to minister as best we can to those we come into contact with. For me, in my capacity of chaplain, that means three times a week, for the rest of the team, monthly on the third Sunday of each month. [But see below]
We have felt throughout the year that, in spite of appearances to the contrary, the Holy Spirit was preparing the ground for some degree of awakening. So, what does the fruit of that awakening look like?
On the surface, average Sunday morning attendance on the Closed side of the prison is around 15. There are real signs of Holy Spirit work in the lives of the men. A significant feature is the number of men recently who have asked for Bibles. I don't just mean the little Gideons (something about the paper…)
There are five Bible study groups, sponsored by King's, that meet during the week. Two other groups meet, run by different churches.
Sycamore Tree A Victim Awareness course run by Prison Fellowship. This is a high profile programme overseen by the chaplaincy. Results obtained elsewhere make it a desirable course from the prison's point of view. Nationally the recidivism rate for those who have done the course has gone down significantly. The course is based on the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19 who has a life-changing encounter with Jesus and, as a result, recognises clearly that he has made many victims and promises to make full restitution.
The course consists of 6 morning sessions. Sue, Ruth, Cyndy and myself will be leading small groups.
Beneath the surface – who knows? What is particularly heartening is evidence that those who come down to the chapel off the wings are getting used to us! Also getting used to simply being in a church service. Small gains……
Please pray for
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The inmates and their families, the staff, the team from King's, all the volunteers who go in from Prison Fellowship Wetherby, Life Destiny Church Harrogate, Within the Walls. That the Christian chaplaincy will provide a consistent, bold and Bible-based witness and service to all who seek it. |
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The Sycamore Tree course, currently under way. For a second course, planned to start in January, and further courses depending on funding being made available. |
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For the Lord to call other members of King's to prison ministry. |
Especially thank God for the army on the mountain and the quiet but powerful work of the Holy Spirit.
John K.