Even in the pope’s absence, the Vatican sought to intervene in the Russia-Ukraine war during its Via Crucis prayer at the Colosseum, featuring, for the second time, people from both countries calling for peace.
Four years ago, Deacon Tracy Esper never dreamed he’d be involved in prison ministry.
“This is totally different from anything I’ve ever done,” Esper said last week about his faith enrichment efforts at the Federal Correctional Institute in Milan. “It’s so rewarding and a blessing to be a part of this program and work with other ministers. The Holy Spirit works through me to help (inmates)… I’m very thankful.”
The married Catholic deacon assigned to Divine Grace Parish in Carleton and Maybee began his fourth year of full-time prison ministry in January. He visits the prison off Arkona Road just east of U.S. 23 four days a week to meet in groups or cohorts with mostly Catholic inmates looking for spiritual direction and guidance.
Prison ministry requires good listening skills, flexibility
Four years ago, Deacon Tracy Esper never dreamed he’d be involved in prison ministry.
“This is totally different from anything I’ve ever done,” Esper said last week about his faith enrichment efforts at the Federal Correctional Institute in Milan. “It’s so rewarding and a blessing to be a part of this program and work with other ministers. The Holy Spirit works through me to help (inmates)… I’m very thankful.”
The married Catholic deacon assigned to Divine Grace Parish in Carleton and Maybee began his fourth year of full-time prison ministry in January. He visits the prison off Arkona Rd. just east of US-23 four days a week to meet in groups or cohorts with mostly Catholic inmates looking for spiritual direction and guidance.