Prison Contemplative Ministry

Presentation – Prison Contemplative Ministry

Sunday June 23, 2024, 12:00 – 1:30 in the Friendship Hall

You are invited to attend a presentation on the contemplative ministry that supports and guides Folsom Prison inmates in the practice of Centering Prayer. This ministry was initiated by a group of inmates over twenty years ago who desired a deeper relationship with God through the practice of contemplative meditation.  Their actions resulted in the eventual creation of a prayer group known as the Prison Contemplative Fellowship, and the ministry that supports it.  A ministry that aligns with the principles and guidelines provided by Contemplative Outreach LTD, an organization cofounded by Father Thomas Keating. 

By attending the presentation, you will learn about thehistory of the Prison Contemplative fellowship, the ministry involved in its support, the ministry’s core principles and practices, and the impact this ministry has had on those involved.

Included in the presentation will be a viewing of the Documentary titled “Holding Still”.   A film that focuses on a diverse group of prior and current inmates who speak candidly in their ownwords (at times using vulgarity) providing a riveting telling of their lifestory and their years-long journey practicing Centering Prayer while incarcerated at Folsom State Prison.  They speak personally and honestly, with the intention to share Centering Prayer with other incarcerated men and women, so that they may know its power to heal trauma and transform toxic shame.

The goal in providing this presentation is to tell others about the Prison Contemplative Fellowship, express how participation in the ministry has inspired us and the spiritual growth we have experienced.  And that others who hear of the ministry may wish to give it a try.

We in this ministry are inspired by the words of Jesus“I was in prison, and you came to me”. Matthew 25:36; “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me” Matthew 25:40.

For more information contact Terry Bridges at Terrycbridges@gmail.com or Chuck Schaller at ChuckSchaller2@gmail.com