One thing I have done in prison that I had never done in the outside “world” is lead bible studies and teach lessons in the chapel. The chapel at FMC Lexington Satellite Camp is filled with women who are truly engaged spiritually, and has numerous opportunities for fellowship and service. We have a Prayer Circle Bible lesson every day at 6am, 3:30pm and 8:30pm. I speak at these every Saturday. I prepare 2 lessons per week, choosing a religious book that complements the bible, or passages from the bible itself and apply those lessons to every day life inside and outside our prison walls. I also have taught an entire 12 week series on “Battlefield of the Mind” from Joyce Meyers, which included a certificate for participants from Religious Services.
This week’s book that I shared was called “Bad Girls of the Bible- And what we can learn from them” from Liz Higgs. Liz chose 10 “bad girls” of the Bible (Delilah, Jezebel, Potiphar’s Wife, Lot’s Wife, The Woman at the Well, The Woman with the Alabaster Jar, Miccah, Rahab) and created modernized fictional stories about them, as well as summarized the stories of them in the Bible. It is a fantastic, clever and creative way to teach us about these stories, and was a fun way to share these lessons in church. It’s also a great book for bible studies, as it poses questions you can use at the end of each chapter.
I had heard before that being incarcerated often brings people closer to Christ and God’s teachings. This has been the same for me. Regardless of being in prison, I personally am at peace. I have been able to continue my acts of service to helping others while in prison, and my faith in God has not waivered, but made it stronger. Being able to share the various lessons, create and teach bible studies has had a tremendous impact on my soul. Singing in the choir and learning new gospel songs that I had never heard before has brought me joy. We also are fortunate to have some wonderful chaplains in here-including Chaplain Caldwell and his wife Kim, and Bishop William Morton. Their sermons have given me relevant and timely topics to consider during my time in here. More than once I have felt like their sermons have spoken directly to my situation in here.
When I have felt lonely and terrified, anxious and depressed, I only had to call on God to be with me, and I was at ease. Never before have I been able to do this successfully. I am blessed beyond measure with a wonderful husband and amazing children. And though I would much rather be home away from here, I know He is always with me. And for that, I will forever be grateful.
