After the glorious Easter vigil last night there was little time to rest. I was out of the house early on this Easter Day to clebrate 9 a.m. Mass at St. Michael's Mission in Bush, La. St. Michael's is a small mission church assigned to the care of St. Jane de Chantal Parish in Abita Springs. I was assigned this Mass so I could make a surprise visit to the Rayburn Prison. Despite all our best efforts to minister to the men at the prison, they never have a visit on a holiday like Christmas or Easter. And this is understandable. For the Deacon, he must always remember his family obligations too. But today, thanks to an understanding family and a fortunate schedule, I managed to make it to Rayburn before 11:30 a.m.
Once I began to visit the dorms and see the men from our Catholic faith community they were very happy, and a bit surprised, to see me. They were genuinely happy to see someone who was willing to share even a part of the day with them. I have found, after doing this ministry for over a year now, it's just being present to them, and talking with them and bringing Jesus to them; yes in Word and most definitely in the Eucharist; but also in a willingness just to be with them and let them know someone cares and is praying for them.
Now that I am home relaxing with the family, I can reflect on what has been a very special Easter. The Vigil was amazing last night and Mass with the folks from our Mission was quite nice. And I'll never forget my first Easter day in prison!
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