Confirmed in Jail

To the Editor:

On Sept. 11, Auxiliary Bishop Dominick Lagonegro once again returned to St. Paul in Chains Chapel within Green Haven Correctional Facility to celebrate the sacrament of confirmation. For well over a decade, he has administered the sacrament to incarcerated men who take RCIA classes at St. Paul’s Chapel. This year 10 men were able to receive the sacrament with their loved ones present by the kind permission of the facility’s administration. Also attending were many of the facility’s staff as well as many of the Catholic volunteers who devote their time, faith and energy to minister to the incarcerated men of Green Haven. Along with the bishop,  these men and women truly bring to life Our Lord’s injunction to visit the imprisoned.

The service was heartfelt both physically and spiritually. The incarcerated men who serve as altar attendants led the catechumens and clergy in a stately procession through the facility to St. Paul’s Chapel. Bishop Dominick’s homily touched on the gifts bestowed by the Holy Spirit and how they must be used to mold a Christian life. Music was also provided by a choir of incarcerated men. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass was offered, with some of the catechumens making their First Holy Communion.

In closing, the incarcerated men of St. Paul’s Chapel give their sincere thanks to Bishop Dominick for his inspiring presence among these “lost” sheep.

We also praise God for our correctional chaplains, Father Gamini Fernando and Deacon Robert Buckner. May Our Lord continue to bless their mission.

Jared Bozydaj

Stormville

Bozydaj is an inmate at Greenhaven Correctional Facility in Stormville.