Many Catholic parishes around the country minister to those who are incarcerated and to their families, but the Covid pandemic has caused prisons to lock down, not allowing visitors and allowing little to no interaction between inmates. Visiting the imprisoned is one of the corporal works of mercy, but how can we do that when visitors are prohibited? How can we bring hope to those on the margins when we can’t physically be with them?
A listener named Hector recently called-in to The Patrick Madrid Show to share how Relevant Radio was there for him in the difficulties of isolation during his time in state prison.
Hector said, “I listened to you while I was in the institution, and you really helped me keep myself sane when I was going insane with all of the Covid-19 stuff. You and Cyrus do such a good job that I said, ‘You know what? I’ve got to call these people when I get out.'”
Hector explained that when he was looking to turn his life around he found hope and inspiration thanks to Relevant Radio. He told Patrick, “Your conscience begins to convict you and you want to make that change. In there I happened to get [Relevant Radio] offered to me to listen to, to counsel me. And it was a good tool that I enjoyed.”
Not only did Hector find hope, but he also found healing by listening to Relevant Radio. He said, “What a wonderful thing to know what an important part a mother plays. I was never in tune with Mary the way you taught, but now I’m starting to look at things from your perspective. I lost my mother when I was young, and then I got to know how Mary experienced everything Jesus was going through. I’m just thankful that was introduced to me.”
Patrick thanked Hector for sharing his story, and noted that his call was a reminder for listeners to pray for those who are incarcerated, and for their families.
But Hector isn’t the only person who has been impacted by Relevant Radio while in prison. A listener named Mary Sue called in shortly after Hector and said, “I volunteered in a prison in New Jersey and I brought in the little flyers that talk about [Relevant Radio]. There was one man, he was so excited, and he shouted out, ‘Relevant Radio changed my life! Take this, take this. This is a great message!'”
In this men’s maximum-security prison, she saw how the programs of Relevant Radio had an impact on those who listened. Mary Sue said, “People started looking, and they do get radios so they can listen. The people attending Mass grew and it was really inspirational. The chapel was really respected – it was a place where they wanted peace, and they received it.”
Did you know that you can help us bring peace, hope, and inspiration to the imprisoned, the homebound, and others who are feeling alone? Relevant Radio is a listener-supported apostolate, and our broadcasts are only possible through the generosity of listeners like you! Support our Give Hope Pledge Drive and help us bring Christ to the world!
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