“Go and make disciples of all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  Teach them to observe all things that I have commanded you.  And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” - Matthew 28:19-20

We believe that we have been called to use the gifts God has given us to reach unbelievers for Him and to encourage, and build up His Church.

Somerset County Jail

One of my favorite venues is the Somerset County jail in central Maine.  It may be the only county jail in Mine with a room sey aside specifically as a chapel.  All the others I've performed in hold my programs in multi-purpose rooms / libraries.  It's a bright, beautiful high-ceilinged room with portions of the cement block walls painted to look like stained glass windows.  These include 'windows' depicting creation, the fall, the flood, Christmas, the crucifixion, empty tomb and more. Furthermore, right in the center of the stage at Somerset (located in the small town of Madison, Maine) the initials for the jail are laid into the tile floor: SCJ.  This is also the initials for my ministry: Supreme Court Jester.  I won't say it makes me feel at home, exactly, but it does make me feel especially welcome.  

I did three shows there recently: one for the women, and one each for the minimum and high security men's groups.  It was on a weekday morning for a change, which allowed them tohave enough security to accomodate me, although it sounds very strange to put that sentence in writing.  Anyway, I spoke with the officer in charge of programs, and we will target shows around school vacations so I can do week day services from now on.

The first program was for the women.  I feel a special compassion for incarcerated women; is it because Ihave three adult daughters?  Regardless, the show was a great time, with the exception of one renegade fly-away dove earlyon.  Fortunately, she settled up high on one of the small, barred windows near the ceiling, and she didn't distract from the rest of the show.  Although I planned a lot of funny routines,and we had a good time,I ended with my illusion/story of Jesus' encoutner with the Samaritan woman at the well.  This left them attentive, hopeful, and in a couple cases, teary-eyed.  

While resetting for the frst group of incarcerated men , I was able to coax Lotte (the dove) down to the floor,and she behaved herself the rest of the morning.   Both of the men's shows were well attended, and in both cases, some of the men were fellow believers.  I got quite a few 'amens' and 'that's rights' from these brothers in Christ.  In both these shows I also included a lot of humor, but led to a serious witness for a closing.  I used my illusion/story of the thief on the cross who called out for mercy.  Again, the Holy Spirit was very present (I know, when is He not.  But sometimes it's like He's the very air in the room.)  A few of the men also brushed away tears of hope and grace as the service sended.

Perhaps the best outcome of the day was that the lady who has been leading Bible studies there for 17 years came and watched my first show.  This gave her a feel for what I do and can help in the future to follow up the things the men and women are introduced to in my show. She can then build on what I've done, and correct errors I've taught if necessary.

Blog Archive

A Few Testimonies

The presentation was fun and encouraging... The gospel message was clear and encouraging. I purchased your book and just finished it. Your scope is broad and again encouraging. May God continue to bless your ministry. I will encourage others to read your book. -Parishioner of a local church

"Hey, I  wanted to say that was a great message in chapel today! It touched something:) thanks for doing it!" -High School Student  

"We are so grateful that you brought your amazing ministry back to our church this year... The Gospel message you bring applies to all!  It is such a positive, valuable work that you do."  -Coordinator of Christian Ed. UCC Church

"There's no questioning it. This is powerful stuff. It's extremely touching at times, never less than entertaining, and I see a lot of sincere love for Jesus in you guys."  -Dwight Lilies, song writer

The Lord has given you a wonderful window through which to present the Gospel!   - Field Director of Alliance Missions to Paraguay

"What a wonderful ministry to both children and adults.  In past years it has been a struggle to arrange programing that would hold the attention of all ages, but also challenge each heart with God's gift of Salvation.  Thank you for sharing your ministry."  -Sunday School Sup't.

Tag Cloud