September: Prison Awareness Month
In the Gospel according to Saint Matthew, Jesus says, “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.”
In response to Jesus’ call to minister to those in prison, and to raise awareness of the effects of incarceration in our wider communities, the Diocese of Arizona has designated the month of September Prison Awareness Month. Those in prison and correctional institutions are so often neglected by society and, sadly, by the church. Bringing them the message of Christ's love and forgiveness can take many different forms, and there are many opportunities for just about anybody who has a heart for serving God's people.
Many of Saint Philip’s parishioners participate both through the Diocese and directly in other prison ministries in men’s and women’s prisons in Arizona. Inmates and staff at these prisons need our prayers, particularly during the current COVID-19 pandemic, when they are not permitted to have family members and volunteers visit them.
Here are a few vital ways to help:
Donate women’s personal hygiene and household products for newly released residents of Magdalene House. We will be taking donations from 1:00pm-3:00pm next Sunday, September 27, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the parking area outside the Saint Philip’s Murphey Gallery. The following items are especially needed: towels, napkins, facial tissue, Swiffer refills, Swiffer pads, laundry detergent and bleach, trash bags, multipurpose disinfectant, cleaner liquid, hand and liquid dish soap, toilet bowl cleaner, pajamas (small, medium, large), and new sneakers (any sizes). For more information, contact Fr. Peter Helman, and visit www.bridgesreentry.org.
Volunteer to help prepare for Camp Genesis next summer, organized by the Diocese of Arizona at Chapel Rock (Prescott, AZ) for children who have parents in prison. For more information, contact Deacon Kim Crecca of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Tucson.
Join the Sunshine Club to send birthday, Christmas and general support cards to residents of Perryville Women’s Prison. To get involved, please email Sunshine Club coordinator Maryanne Vermillion.
Visit the “Women of Perryville Art Exhibit” at Coffee Exchange (6841 E Camino Principal, Tucson, AZ 85715) this October through December.
Want more information? Contact Jim Prescott-Smith, or visit the Dicoesan web site and click on “Prison Awareness Month.”