St. John’s, Monroeville, provides food for body and soul in its prison ministry

By The Rev. Sandra Meaher, Rector
St. John’s, Monroeville

MONROEVILLE, AL — St. John’s, Monroeville, has been very involved in its prison ministry outreach program. Beginning in early summer a group of parishioners from St. Johns have been conducting services at L.I.F.E Tech campus, a program of the Alabama Pardon and Parole board located in Thomasville, Alabama. This is a six month program for men on parole to help them make a smooth transition from incarceration to the free world.

The services are held on the 2nd and 4th Sundays and include Holy eucharist, Bible study and fellowship led by the rector Rev. Sandra Mayer. Approximately 25 men participate on a regular basis.  On a Sunday in October, a special service, Mass On The Grass,  took place under the trees on t he sprawling 93 acre campus. Music for the service was provided by several of the residents who performed some of their own compositions.

Following the service, a cookout of t dogs, hamburgers and all the trimmings was enjoyed by all. The food was provided by donations from Monroeville merchants and St. John’s parishioners.

On Sunday, November 28th, a thanksgiving meal, complete with ham, turkey and all the trimmings was shared with the residents…all 200 of them! There was enough food for each resident to have second helpings…and the only food left over was one-half pan of dressing and some cranberry sauce. Members of St. John’s along with some special friends served the residents in the dining hall that had been decorated with lovely Thanksgiving centerpieces. A wonderful time was had by all who participated, especially those of us who worked serving the residents. It was a testimony to the willing hearts and hands of those who understand the meaning of Jesus’ role as servant, and want to follow in those footsteps.