Christmas is a season of joy, love, and reflection. It is a time to celebrate with family, friends, and loved ones, to exchange gifts, share meals, and express gratitude for the blessings of life.
Yet, amid the festivities, there is a segment of society that has no luxury to celebrate freely as they are often overlooked and neglected: the over 80,000 inmates serving various sentences in prison.
Remembering prisoners during Christmas is not just a charitable act; it is a profound expression of humanity, compassion, and the true spirit of the holiday season.
There is no gainsaying that prisoners are often marginalized and stigmatized by members of society. They live in isolation in custodial centers, cut off from their families, friends, and communities.
Unfortunately, many persons in custodial centers may be innocent of the crimes they are accused of. Many face mental, emotional, and spiritual struggles, compounded by the loneliness of incarceration. For them, Christmas can be a particularly painful time as they reflect on their mistakes and the lives they left behind.
For many of us living freely in Nigeria, the essence of Christmas lies in its message of love, forgiveness, and redemption. These values are embodied in the story of Jesus Christ, whose birth signifies hope and salvation for all.
Christ’s teachings encourage us to care for the marginalized, the downtrodden, and those in need. In Matthew 25:36, Jesus said, “I was in prison and you came to visit me.” This verse underscores the importance of extending kindness to prisoners as an act of service to God and humanity. It reminds us that the true celebration of Christmas involves not just enjoying the season but also sharing its blessings with others, especially those who cannot reciprocate.
There are several practical ways to remember prisoners during Christmas: one can visit the prison and offer words of encouragement as almost all correctional facilities allow visits during this season. A visit can be a powerful gesture, providing them with a sense of connection and hope.
Sharing words of encouragement and listening to their stories can make a significant impact on their emotional and physical well-being.
Secondly, if you are fortunate, donate gifts and essential items as many of them need necessities such as toiletries and clothing. Donating these items, especially during Christmas, can make their lives more comfortable, and also bring a sense of joy and normalcy.
Thirdly, you may want to support prison ministries and outreaches as a good number of religious organizations and ministries, such as the Prison Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), focus on providing spiritual guidance and support to prison inmates. Partnering with such groups through donations, volunteering, or prayer can help extend their reach and impact.
Furthermore, you may want to write letters to inmates. A simple letter can mean the world to someone in prison. Sharing messages of hope or just a kind word can uplift their spirits and remind them that they are not forgotten.
Also, if you are in a privileged position in government, advocate for prison reform. There is no doubt that beyond individual acts of kindness, advocating for systemic change in the Nigerian Correctional system is a meaningful way to support prisoners.
Campaigning for better living conditions, access to education, as well as reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration programs can create a lasting impact on their lives.
The Benefits of the above initiatives abound. Firstly, it promotes healing and forgiveness as extending compassion to prisoners fosters healing for both them and society. It reinforces the idea that people can change and deserve second chances.
It also goes a long way in reducing recidivism as such acts of kindness and inclusion can inspire prison inmates to reflect on their lives and make positive changes. Feeling valued and supported increases their likelihood of reintegration into society.
Also, a community that supports its most vulnerable members, including prisoners, is stronger and more cohesive. More so, acts of service, especially to those in need, enrich our lives and deepen our understanding of humanity. It reminds us to be grateful for our blessings and inspires us to live with greater purpose.
In conclusion, many lives have been transformed through simple acts of kindness during Christmas. For instance, in a custodial center located in North Central Nigeria, a group of volunteers organized a Christmas service and distributed care packages.
One inmate, who had been in despair, shared how the visit renewed his faith and gave him the courage to face the future. Such stories highlight the profound impact an act of kindness can make.
This Christmas, as you gather with your loved ones to celebrate, take a moment to think about those in prison. Consider how you can extend the spirit of the season to them. Whether through a visit, a donation, or a simple prayer, your actions can bring light to their darkness and remind them of the hope that Christmas represents.
This is wishing you a merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year ahead!
Kelvin Abuchi Ugwuoke, a Chief Superintendent of Corrections (CSC) writes from Jos, Plateau state. He can be reached via ugwukev11@gmail.com
