Pastoral Work in the Community: Cloverhill Prison, Dublin (Jaime)

Sep 11, 2017

Br Jaime Rosique MSC chose to spent his pastoral work placement in Cloverhill Prison, Dublin, alongside his fellow MSC brother Domenico Rosa. Here, he reflects on the lessons he learned during his three weeks in Cloverhill.

“Each of these people has a story, a load on their back that has shaped the life they have lived so far.”

When I was initially offered a choice between two pastoral placement experiences, I had little doubt as to which one I would choose. Although Cork and the L’Arche community were very appealing to me, as soon as I saw that the other possibility was to assist the prison chaplains of Cloverhill, I sensed that this was there the Lord wanted me to be. This was not the first time I has been offered that possibility as a pastoral experience, and I took the hint! Now, looking back, I can understand why He wanted me there.

The proposed placement programme covered a very busy and interactive experience. This included visiting several courts of justice, involvement in prisoners’ services such as the school or the library, a day at the visitors’ centre to experience the work done with the families of the inmates, and a breakfast at the Capuchin Day Centre, where it is not uncommon to find former prisoners once they have served their sentences.

On our induction day, we were given some reading material to help us to understand how the prison service works in Ireland, and which also provided information on some trends among the prison population (such as drugs, homelessness, and mental health issues). We were then given security instructions and introduced to several officers. Shortly, afterwards we began our visits.

The D2 Wing, where people with mental health problems are kept under close scrutiny and supervision, was the main focus of attention of our ministry. Here, we found ourselves working with the most vulnerable of prisoners. Their joyful and appreciative response to small gestures of kindness, such as simply listening to them, was overwhelming. Their gratitude made me think about my own appreciation of many things that I would often take for granted – things that mean a lot to those deprived of freedom.

The stories and anecdotes that have touched my heart are too many to be able to express them in a few lines. All I can say is that I found the experience very enriching. It has helped me to become aware of a reality that I would otherwise not have had the opportunity to experience. My time at Cloverhill has helped me to understand the many different factors that take somebody to prison, making me realise that, regardless of the offences committed, I was working with human beings who in many ways are victims themselves.

In other words, after the three weeks I spent at Cloverhill, I feel moved to remember that behind the news headlines, the court case numbers, or the PN numbers (Prisoner Numbers), there is a person. Each of these people has a story, a load on their back that has shaped the life they have lived so far – and these people and their stories have touched my own heart and life as well.

Br Jaime Rosique MSC

Pastoral Work in the Community: L’Arche Cork

Sep 4, 2017

Newly professed MSC brother Giacomo Gelardi spent some time working with the community at L’Arche Cork during the course of his novitiate year. Here, he shares his thoughts on the experience.

My life-giving experience at L’Arche “Le Cheile”, Cork

L’Arche “Le Cheile” in Cork was the best place I could have spent my pastoral placement. As soon as the door was opened to me, I was embraced by a gentle and loving welcome from the people who share their lives here, with beautiful smiles and real friendship.

I had not been at L’Arche before, but it felt like being at home. The community here opened their arms to me, a stranger in their lives, and received me as a friend. Thus, I soon realised that I was not there for them, but they were there to show me a different way of living – a way of loving and welcoming each other as precious gifts, enriched by our differences.

It took just a couple of days for my tiredness, worries, and anxieties to disappear, and I started to see the beauty of God’s presence in my life through them all. What impressed really me was their genuine nature, and the spontaneity that comes with being with one another.

The week started with a gathering of all members in a prayerful atmosphere. The community leader introduced the theme, then the members of different houses cheerfully performed songs and dances. “This must be a special day,” I thought. However, my new friend Maria explained, “This is how we start every week here at L’Arche – we come together and exchange our wishes for a good journey for the days ahead.”

My week was organised so that I could experience the different projects underway, and that day, it was time to visit the allotment. With Mike and Barry, two pillars of L’Arche Cork, we walked to the place where fruits and vegetables such as salads, tomatoes, and strawberries are grown. We watered and sowed the radishes; then, we all enjoyed a nice coffee at the nearby pub, before going back and sharing lunch together. Lunches and coffee breaks are fairly important social events here!

Over the course of the week, I spent time in the relaxation room listening to soft music with those who wanted a quiet moment. I had the chance to work with the younger lads who were making clocks and bird-houses in the woodwork course; I was also able to chat to and get to know some of the ladies while drawing cards or making candles, and I performed in improvised plays.

The week went by in the twinkling of an eye, and ended with a Mass where everyone took part, followed by singing and dancing together as a group.

During my three weeks at L’Arche, my experiences taught me that being with people is more important than doing. I learned that difference is our strength; difference is a gift.

Br Giacomo Gelardi MSC