Drawing from his own experiences, George Williams, S.J., helps students engage in theology and encounter Christ in prison ministry.
Santa Clara University’s Jesuit School of Theology encourages students to go to the margins and accompany those that others have forgotten. JST’s prison ministry practicum provides a tangible opportunity to serve where there is a critical need. George Williams, S.J., designed the course to equip students with the practical skills needed to serve at San Quentin State Prison and Federal Correctional Institution, Dublin.
Engaging in real social justice work was vital to Fr. Williams’ own theological studies. He says, “It was the prisons, the prisoners, who formed me and who taught me the most about what theology is. It’s certainly not something you can get out of a book. It has to come from people and from hearts.”
The prison ministry practicum involves both praxis and theory, focusing on the current United States’ prison system and its inherent structural racism. Through their service at the prison each week, students form relationships through simple conversation, finding authentic human connection.
Sarah Ash, M.Div. ’19, is a student chaplain at FCI Dublin. Through moments of authentic encounter, she sees the gift of each woman. “As much as these women are punished by being separated from society, society is punishing itself by separating itself from the talents of these women.” She is inspired by the positive attitudes and the determination of the women.
Ultimately, prison ministry is a work of hope. It is about finding light amidst darkness and negativity. “But the light’s already there,” says Williams “We don’t bring Christ to prison. He’s there. But we have to witness his presence to the people there. Showing them where to look at the light.” After experiencing and participating in so much violence, people in prison are hungry for forgiveness and reconciliation. Prison ministry embodies the Jesuit charism: finding God in all things. Even in the dark place that is prison, God is there.
To learn more about this and other ministries at the Jesuit School of Theology visit jst.scu.edu/info.
Written by Maddie LaForge, M.Div. ’21.
Maddie LaForge comes to JST after teaching for two years in Tacna, Peru through the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. Prior to JVC she studied theology and psychology at Spring Hill College. For Maddie, the M.Div program is an opportunity to integrate these passions while actively engaging with a faith that does justice.