First faith-based prison opened in the United States ( 2003-12-25 16:42) (Agencies)
``For the people who are
skeptical about this initiative, I am proud that Florida is the home to the
first faith-based prison in the United States.''
Bush said it was the first of its kind, meaning a prison focused on
encouraging the spirituality of inmates of all faiths.
Other prisons have used religious thinking to try to turn inmates away from
crime. From 1829 to 1913, for instance, the Eastern State Penitentiary in
Philadelphia used a Quaker-inspired system in which prisoners were isolated from
each other and made to perform labor in hopes of encouraging spiritual
reflection and change.
Inmates at the Lawtey prison in north Florida were told more than a month ago
that it would be converted to a faith-based institution, prompting 111 to
transfer out. But their beds were quickly filled with volunteers from other
prisons.
``We've developed a cocoon, a place where they can practice their faith and
not have the severe negative pressures and interactions that naturally take
place in some of our institutions,'' said Correction Secretary James Crosby Jr.
Officials hope the program will lead to fewer repeat offenders.
The governor said about 38 percent of Florida's released inmates will be back
in prison at some point.
``Wouldn't it be nice if we could figure out a way to lower that 38 percent
closer to zero percent, for your family and your community?'' Bush asked to
rousing applause.
Howard Simon, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of
Florida, called the prison part of ``a major constitutional showdown'' over
government funding for religious programs.
He said before filing suit, the ACLU is waiting for the results of a test
case challenging a state voucher program that gives students taxpayer money to
attend religious schools.
Marlin Cliburn, a Baptist, transferred to Lawtey from Manatee County, where
he was serving 6 1/2 years for aggravated assault and fleeing officers.
``My life was headed down the wrong road,'' he said. ``I've kind of seen the
light. I've been screwing up my whole life. I see this as a turning point in my
life.''
During the dedication ceremony, many prisoners jumped to their feet and
clapped in rhythm as a gospel singer sang ``His Eye Is on the Sparrow.'' Some
shouted ``Sing it!'' and ``Amen!''
Later, Bush told the inmates: ``I can't think of a better place to reflect on
the awesome love of our lord Jesus than to be here at Lawtey Correctional. God
bless you.''
