About

My primary vocation at this time is visiting men in prison as a volunteer chaplain. Most maximum security prisons have areas of isolation and administrative segregation, often called solitary confinement or “the hole.” It is in those areas where I go door-to-door to listen, encourage, challenge, or simply be present.

Being incarcerated can lead to frustration and a loss of hope. Everything can look bleak; life can seem lonely and without meaning. So, I journey with them, and I find the experience of encountering the forgotten, the abandoned, and those despised by society, to be at once an immense challenge as well as a blessing.

It is important to say that the last thing we talk about is faith or religion … unless an offender wants to. I’m not there to push anything upon anyone. There is whole world out there to be illuminated for those without radio, TV, regular access to newspapers, magazines, few quality books. And it’s a good visit when there can be smiles and laughter on both sides of that solid steel door.

Another portion of my life is working with a sheltered workshop which employs around 110 adults with developmental disabilities.  Authentic and joyful people.

Fishing, walking, running, reading, listening to classical music and NPR, all help keep things in balance. Family includes my wife, two adult children, and three grandchildren. This thing called retirement can be quite busy and very rewarding.