Article September 25, 2000 Issue

Holy moments behind bars

Hearts touched by God's love

By Ellen Moore Thompson

Each of us wore a photo identification tag around our neck. As we walked down the corridors, the doors opened electronically and then clanged shut, locking behind us. We knew we were being watched. If we got lost in the maze of colorless hallways, a voice would come from nowhere directing us to our destination.

We were about to conduct a church service on a Sunday afternoon in our county jail. After the guards had announced the service over the loud speaker to the various pods, a number of young men entered the little room that served as a chapel. The door was locked behind them. A few of the men sat in pairs, the others quietly off by themselves. They were openly friendly and seemed earnestly grateful that we had chosen to spend some of our Sunday afternoon with them. Indeed, we were happy to be there, feeling the presence of God bringing us together as brothers and sisters who cared for each other.

My role during the service was to read from the Bible. Two friends were with me. One would be reading from Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy. This book gives a spiritual and inspired sense of the Bible's message. The other friend would play the piano to accompany the hymn singing. The congregation particularly loved the musical part of the service. Singing together united and uplifted us all.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Poem
In awe of Love
September 25, 2000
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit