New York Theological Seminary started a Certificate in Ministry program for Sing Sing inmates in 1996. This program allows inmates who have not graduated from college to take a 1-year intensive course taught by seminary faculty which leads to this certificate. Since Governor Pataki took office and eliminated all state-funded higher education throughout the prisons, NYTS provides the only higher education opportunity for the inmates.

In the spring of 1997 Hans Hallenbaek invited a number of us to visit his certificate class and get to know its students. Deborah Moore then wrote a proposal for an alumni Bible study which would bring together graduates of the certificate program with members of our congregation for study and fellowship every two weeks. The prison accepted the proposal and we began our class in September of 1997.

Last year, our group consisted of 6 Katonah folk, plus one from Purdys and 6 inmates. 

This fall, our inmate class has grown to between 15 to 20 inmates with 5 from our congregation: Pat & Arlene O'Connor, Mary Seefeld, & Bob Lukey. We are studying the book of Acts.

Together, we study God's word and discuss its implications for our lives. The opportunity to share our various insights is very stimulating and helps us deepen our understanding of the scripture. Plus, it's exciting to see our classmates work to use the Bible to create a new, positive life for themselves after falling to the bottom of society's barrel. It's a real opportunity to see the power of Jesus' message in action.

As we drive to the prison together, we're our usual selves. But after our class, we go home filled with the Holy Spirit's excitement and joy. The inmates pour out such love and gratitude to us for our efforts that we leave the prison walking on air. Our participation in this class is a very great gift from God.