There were 21 men attending the 3 church services at the Riverside Jail for this report period. Again there have been several repeat inmates coming to our service. Rather than one inmate there have lately been several who are using the Full Text Quarterly "My Bible Lesson" during the services, and keeping them for later study. There are now two inmates who have their own copy of [Science and Health, with Key to the Scriptures, by Mary Baker Eddy], a first in all the years of my holding church services in a county jail. One of these said with his usual excitement, "I'll tell you how I use my books, first you pray while holding the book then open it at random and read the very first thing you see---this is how God speaks to me." I shared that this is how I understand Mrs. Eddy would use her Bible.

Reported June 2008, Christian Science Chaplain, Riverside/San Bernardino Committee

The first pod Chaplain John visited was attended by three newcomers. All had experienced a connection with God at some point so they discussed the significance of the Bible and he introduced the textbook. One said he knew of the book and had been looking for it in the book cart but couldn't find it (there is a problem in keeping the three books in constant circulation) so he was told he could buy one at the [local] Reading Room since he is to be released next week. All three wanted to know the location of the Reading Room. The discussion then focused on God directing our thoughts.

One man stated that 30 minutes ago he was going to hang himself in his cell when he heard the announcement that the [Christian Science] Chaplain was available. With that comment, they started talking about God loving each one of His children, without any reservations and that His love never abandons us no matter where we are. They talked about thoughts that are not from God, and this was certainly one of them, and how we need to fill our consciousness with Godlike thoughts at all times to overcome devilish thoughts. He cried that his world had collapsed around him, so they discussed how we can leave our baggage behind us and start anew by acknowledging God's ever presence.

As they were ending the session, everyone was feeling much better about themselves and one in particular expressed a nice sense of joy. Three very grateful persons departed after the reading of the Lord's Prayer with its spiritual interpretation. It is so humbling when one acknowledges that God always puts us in the right place at the right time and then directs one what to say!

 

Reported June 2008, Christian Science Chaplin, Sacramento Committee Chaplain, East Bay Committee"

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