PROGRAMS

Prison Dharma

The Fourth Mindfulness Training of the Order of Interbeing states,” We are committed to finding ways, including personal contact…to be with those who suffer, so we can help them transform their suffering…”

For a decade, some FCM members have volunteered to share the dharma in small sanghas of inmates on two half-days each month, in four nearby Florida State prisons. We spend two hours together in sitting and walking meditations, gathas and recitations, dharma talks. We exchange deep listening about the men’s suffering and struggles, and deep sharing of the dharma and encouragement of the participant’s spiritual practice, growth, and redemption.

These bi-weekly visits are important to the men inside. “I have 69 roommates, many with mental health challenges. Our small sangha of like-minded guys is literally a refuge where I feel safe and supported. I’m encouraged by the teachings that remind us again and again of what is possible for us, even during our stay.” In another prison, an inmate said matter-of-factly, “I’m in here facing a 40 year sentence. I have only three jobs: AA meetings; my court appeals; and my Buddhist practice. That’s all I need.”

And these bi-weekly visits are important to those of us coming from the outside, as well. As Susan put it. “Who’s teaching? Who’s learning? I always leave with some treasure.” John shared after a few visits that, “I’ve learned more from these men than I would have imagined.” Chris Gahles, who began our FCM prison program a decade ago, put volunteers’ experience this way. “What could possibly be better than sitting in a small circle sharing the dharma?”

New volunteers are accompanied by more experienced FCM volunteers for several months. Some feel comfortable on their own right away; most feel confident in three or four months. We visit each prison either alone or in pairs.

We are looking for women and men volunteers who are FCM members, with a daily practice for a couple of years, and who have participated in some intensives or retreats. Women’s presence in these small, sacred, sangha circles often seems to encourage larger attendance, greater vulnerability, and deeper sharing.

If you are interested in learning more, or have any questions about, our Prison Dharma Program, ask any of the current ten volunteers you may know. And feel free to call or text Ned Bellamy at 727-642-5900 or email him at nedbellamy46@gmail.com.