On 1/18/11, The Eagle Tribune published this Letter to the Editor. LINK
I am writing today to acknowledge the volunteers who helped bring a bit of Christmas joy to men at the Lawrence Correctional Alternative Center (LCAC) this past Christmas Eve. Dozens of people from churches in New England and as far away as Tennessee, Florida, and North Dakota provided homebaked cookies, candy, gift bags, greeting cards, and tracts. We had a bag for every man: over 325 in total!
Additionally, men received the gift of entertainment thanks to the talents of 21 actors, musicians, and singers who came from First Presbyterian in Ipswich, New Testament Christian Fellowship in Manchester NH, New Life Christian Assembly in Haverhill, Harbor Church in Portsmouth NH, Ward Hill Church of Christ the King, and Market Street Baptist Church in Amesbury. There was even a contingent from Free Christian Church of Andover, who came just to share their Christmas with the men.
This event was sponsored by New Brothers Fellowship, so I would be remiss not to acknowledge the churches and individuals who support this work with their financial gifts. Not only do they fund NBF, a prison aftercare ministry that provides support for men upon their release from a correctional facility, but they also fund the position of the Protestant Chaplain and Interfaith Coordinator for the Essex County Correctional Facilities, Rev. Doug Gregan.
Last, but by no means least, I want to recognize the support and cooperation of Superintendent Joseph Furnari, Director of Re-Entry & Programs Sean Lebroda, and the entire correctional staff at the LCAC. My most sincere thanks to them all!
You know, we hear a lot lately about former inmates who are unreformed and unrepentant, and the pathos and hopelessness of prison. I can tell a different story. Thanks to volunteers such as these, inmates at the Essex County Correctional Facility in Middleton and LCAC can find Christ-centered services, Bible studies, and programs to attend every day. As a result, there are many men who have made real and lasting changes in their lives during their incarceration. The truth is, there is a vibrant witness of hope at the ECCF and the LCAC. I witness it every time I go inside, and I hear the testimonies from my husband every day. Men once alienated from society by their own wrong choices, are now making a positive difference in our communities. They have turned away forever from a life of crime and addiction. Instead, they are caring for their families and living right before God and man.
Thank you so much for allowing me this opportunity to shine a light on some very positive things happening in prison right here in Essex County. Thanks to a supportive administration and corrections staff, and the many dedicated volunteers, new life is springing forth behind the brick walls and barbed wire. It’s a precious thing to behold!
Sincerely,
Caroline Gregan
Co-Director of New Brothers Fellowship
& Prison Volunteer
