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“After the retreat, we saw a significant increase in Mass attendance, enrollment in the Adult Christian Initiation program in prison and a greater number of men receiving the sacraments for the first time.”
Editorial (21/02/2024 09:32, Gaudium Press)
Jerry Trzeciak organizes spiritual retreats in a rather unique setting with a unique group of participants.
For the past few years, Trzeciak has been volunteering at the Jim Ferguson Unit of the Texas Department of Corrections, situated in Midway, Texas. This facility, housing over 2,000 men, primarily accommodates individuals with a history of violence and gang affiliation.
Collaborating with a Catholic lay group known as Kolbe Prison Ministries (KPM), Trzeciak and his team of volunteers conduct three-day retreats within the prison premises, with approximately 66 inmates participating in each retreat. During these sessions, volunteers engage in heartfelt conversations about faith, offer prayers with the incarcerated individuals, and facilitate Mass or communion services. Following the retreat, they extend their support by providing ongoing education opportunities, such as Bible studies.
A Significant Contribution
Trzeciak’s work, along with KPM, has received a significant boost in recent years, thanks to a generous donation of study materials from Ascension, a Catholic publishing company based in Pennsylvania.
“The retreats have consistently been well-received, and witnessing the growth of both the ministry and the influence of the Holy Spirit has been truly amazing,” remarked Trzeciak, a retired sales and marketing professional and a member of St. Anthony of Padua parish near Houston.
Despite the stringent security measures in place within prisons, the actual risk to volunteers involved in prison ministry remains minimal. Nonetheless, the prospect of entering a maximum-security prison, particularly with the intention of sharing religious teachings with inmates, can be daunting and requires some adjustment. Trzeciak emphasizes the importance of approaching the experience with love and an open mind.
Challenges and Transformations
Catholic prison ministries across the United States have encountered challenges in recruiting volunteers and securing adequate financial support to sustain their efforts. However, a significant shift occurred in March 2022, particularly in Texas, when Ascension partnered with KPM to facilitate a substantial donation of Bible study materials, primarily centered around Ascension’s flagship program, “The Bible Timeline: The Story of Salvation,” a comprehensive 24-session course developed by Jeff Cavins. Ascension is also renowned for producing Fr. Mike Schmitz’s popular podcast, “The Bible in a Year.”
This successful donation enabled nearly 400 inmates across various facilities in Texas and beyond to engage in Bible studies focused on “Bible Chronology.” Trzeciak noted that even before the donation, they had been utilizing “Bible Chronology,” observing its profound impact on the spiritual growth of incarcerated individuals. He highlighted the inmates’ keen interest in exploring themes of forgiveness, both in relation to others and themselves.
“The transformations we witness—among both inmates and staff—through the sacraments and through compassionate, humble, and open-hearted interactions are profound,” Trzeciak emphasized. “Whether it’s a simple hug, tears of self-forgiveness, or experiencing the grace of the Holy Spirit as these men surrender to the Lord, the evidence of transformation is undeniable. Following the retreats, we’ve observed a significant uptick in Mass attendance, enrollment in the prison’s Adult Christian Initiation program, and an increased number of men receiving sacraments for the first time.”
Source: Adapted from information provided by CNA and the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston.
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Lay people offer spiritual retreats in Texas prisons
“After the retreat, we saw a significant increase in Mass attendance, enrollment in the Adult Christian Initiation program in prison and a greater number of men receiving the sacraments for the first time.”
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