H.I.S. will be offering a monthly service opportunity to the congregation.  Look for monthly service opportunities here, in the monthly Celebrate! or  the weekly Daily Celebrations! (aka the Blue Sheet) publications.

On June 19, the day before Father's Day, a long orange and black bus pulled into the SJLC parking lot. After gratefully receiving a small pillow, a throw, and decorated bags filled with games and treats (items donated by the SJLS children and the bags filled by the Cub Scouts), the families ate a quick breakfast and climbed aboard the bus. Making Father's Day cards on the way, the families and chaperones arrived at the prison early. We solemnly went through the security clearance and the doors loudly clanged shut behind us.
     We chaperones were privileged to watch children jump into the arms of their fathers with a big whoop, and fathers with big smiles wipe the tears out of their eyes. During the four hours of visitation, the children stayed close to their fathers, talking adamantly or laughing loudly as they played board games. One of our chaperones offered to hold a Bakersfield screaming baby so the father and the other children could play and talk, but he declined the offer with a smile, saying, "I just can't let go of her." A number of inmates came to shake our hands and thank us for making it possible for them to see their children. The girl sitting in front of us on the bus was 6 years old, and it was the first time she was meeting her father. A Bakersfield family with four children were so excited because this was the first time they could be together as a family. Usually two would come at a time with their mother and grandparents (the prisons set a limit of 5). Another girl from Bakersfield was thrilled to get cursive writing lessons from her father.
     Saying goodbye was the most difficult time as the fathers hugged their children goodbye and watched silently until they disappeared down the hall and out of sight. Our group was taken to a church in Soledad where they were fed and, in small groups, talked about their feelings. They were given stationary and envelopes to write to their fathers and a lunch for the bus.
     This day of ministry was for the children and they were so happy to see their fathers. Thanks to all of you who donated items for the bags, treats, throws, etc. Your help and donations were very appreciated by the children and their parents. SJLC prayers followed us through the day. Thanks also to the chaperones for their energy and their ability to be so present for the families. From Matthew 25:36: "I was in prison and you came to visit me".