Last night at the AGM of Prison Fellowship Invercargill I was nominated for the Chairman’s role for the year. For the past 9 months or so I’ve been doing the Interim Chairman’s role since Bill Cunliffe relocated back up north. It has been an interesting 9 months getting my head around what Prison Fellowship is all about, how it’s been operating here in Invercargill, what it envisages doing into the future, and how we can foster relationships with those working in “Corrections” as well as those working in the prison assisting inmates. Also how we as an organisation can provide support for those that are both in, and who have gone through the corrections system, along with their families in the community.
This is no easy task especially when the dice often appears to be stacked against those coming out of the corrections system. But is something in which we need to do our bit if we are to help them contribute positively in the community.
In my years serving with The Salvation Army so far, I have been hugely encouraged by the massive turn-around that some previous inmates have had when they are befriended by people and made to feel as if they are valued and loved. Many of whom go on to recognise that they have a contribution to make within their community to provide a safe environment. I have seen hardened criminals literally come alive and strive to make a difference in the lives of their previous gang associates, families and friends.
Therefore, it is important for us all to treat others the way that we would like to be treated as we don’t know what one simple gesture of kindness could do to impact the life of another person regardless of what they have done in the past.
The life and times of Perry... 