The predominant sentiment expressed by the men attending a morning Mass celebrated by Bishop Earl Fernandes on Tuesday, June 24 at the North Central Correctional Institution (NCCI) in Marion was gratitude.
They were thankful that the bishop of the diocese took the time to share the Holy Eucharist in their chapel and to speak directly to them on the feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist.
Bishop Fernandes has frequently visited correctional institutions since he was appointed to lead the Diocese of Columbus in 2022. During his visits, he not only celebrates Mas but hears confessions and brings hope to the incarcerated, especially this year during this Year of Hope being observed in the Catholic Church.
Some of the approximately 50 men who came to Mass at NCCI were Catholic and some were not.
Chris Watkins is not Catholic but said he’s learning about the faith and enjoys praying the rosary and studying scripture.
“I think it’s wonderful that the bishop is here celebrating the Mass,” Watkins said.
Barry Thiery, a cradle Catholic, appreciated the bishop’s encouragement for the incarcerated men.
“It’s good to know that the bishop comes here and recharges the Catholic community,” he said. “It shows that he cares about us guys who are incarcerated.”
Likewise, Memo de Jesus said, “I’m grateful that the bishop is celebrating Mass here today.” Joe Periat agreed, saying, “It’s really special that the bishop is having Mass with us today.”
Tom Gilman, who is Catholic, said, “I think it’s great the bishop coming out. He’s a very busy guy, and for him to take the time to stop at a prison is pretty cool.”
Bishop Fernandes, who was assisted at the Mass by Deacon Earl McCurry, told the men in his homily to follow the example of St. John the Baptist.
“Our first reading from Isaiah says, ‘I will make you a light to the nations that my salvation may reach the ends of the Earth.’ Those words are also spoken to each of you, even in this place, which, at times for you, can seem like it is dark,” the bishop said. “God is calling you to bring His light here, to tell others about Jesus and the salvation He offers. …
“You are my missionaries in here. I need each and every one of you to be on a mission from God. And you are to bring God’s mercy, God’s forgiveness, and God’s love and healing to everyone you meet. …
“I would like to come back here one day and see a big banner that says ‘Mission Accomplished.’ John the Baptist was the first to shed his blood for the Messiah after the Holy Innocents, and I’m sure when he got to Heaven there was a big banner there saying ‘Mission Accomplished.’”