Holy Thursday is a powerful reminder that in the eyes of God, we are all created equal.
This was Bishop Vincent’s message during his visit to the maximum-security area of Parklea Correctional Centre to celebrate Mass and conduct the washing of inmate’s feet for Holy Thursday.
Over 30 inmates participated in the Liturgy, organised by Catholic Care Prison Chaplain Richard Korkor.
Richard conducted Holy Thursday liturgies throughout the week due to the demand. Over 130 men attended a liturgy, which is one of the largest numbers of participation to date (approximately 12% of all inmates at Parklea).
In one session Richard shared that after he washed one person’s feet, the inmate asked if he could wash Richards. The gesture stopped Richard in his tracks who accepted the invitation.
“This work [in prisons] helps you get down to the essentials … I’ve done my studies in theology, but this ministry has been my PhD,” said Richard.
“The Church will understand itself through the work she does when she reaches and encounters those on the margins” he added.
The chapel at Parklea Correctional Centre is a place of quiet refuge, where inmates can seek counsel, prayer, and support from chaplains of many faiths. Image: Diocese of Parramatta
As the inmates filed into the chapel, one had brought with him four original paintings of the Palm Sunday procession, hoping to decorate the Chapel with his art.
Bishop Vincent commenced with a warm welcome, “You are all welcome here regardless of your faith or denomination.”
Richard reiterated, “We never known what’s happening with the person next to us, we want you to feel safe and nourished here [in the chapel]. There are no rules, just honour that one principle as a way to show each other love.”
The liturgy commenced with the song ‘The Power of Your Love’, a favourite amongst the inmates. The room immediately filled with their voices, some raising their voices passionately, some singing quietly with eyes closed.
Bishop Vincent’s homily emphasised God’s unconditional love, despite the sins we have committed – God’s love for us is more powerful. He reminded the inmates that us “outsiders” are no different and also ask for God’s mercy and forgiveness.
Bishop Vincent washing the feet of inmates at Parklea Correctional Centre on Holy Thursday. Image: Diocese of Parramatta.
“We are called to love one another, as God loves us, even those who are vulnerable, or most difficultly, those who betray us,” said Bishop Vincent.
“On Holy Thursday and throughout the gospel, Jesus ignored the stigmas and labels against people in society but chose to see the value of their hearts.
“Jesus subverted the model of authority and service. Not only was it a service of humility and lowering oneself, but it was also an inversion of roles; foot washing was for slaves and servants. By doing this, Jesus showed his true love, true authority, and true service, that lies in the reinversion of pride and ego,” he said.
Bishop Vincent continued, emphasising that God wants us to care and love one another and endeavour to be the best versions of ourselves.
“You will be with me in paradise’ God said this to the most unworthy, stigmatised people. Jesus was perceived as a criminal on the Cross.”
“Jesus loves us despite the titles, status or wealth we may have – even if you are sitting here with a conviction. God does not look at these things; it means nothing to God.”
When it was time for the foot washing to commence, there was a quiet apprehension in the air. Looks of scepticism and uncertainty were exchanged.
Once Bishop Vincent kneeled for the first inmate, others had a change of heart and slowly took off their shoes, in preparation for their turn.
There is something deeply striking in watching a Bishop quietly introduce himself to an inmate, ask their name, and then kneel to wash their feet.
During the Prayers of the Faithful, Bishop Vincent asked the inmates to share a prayer aloud. A few prayed for their hopes for happiness and to receive forgiveness, whoever that may be from.
As the liturgy came to a close, Bishop Vincent offered this final encouragement, “No matter who we are, circumstances, labels, stigmas, what people on the outside may think of you, God loves you and this is the basis of your dignity and hope.”
In his thanks to Bishop Vincent, Richard said “this visit reminds us that those on the margins have an inherent human dignity and worthy to be seen and heard.”
Bishop Vincent washing the feet of inmates at Parklea Correctional Centre on Holy Thursday. Image: Diocese of Parramatta.
One inmate reiterated, “In my 11 years I’ve been in here, this is the first time any Bishop, from my area has come to see me.”
Following the liturgy, attendees had quiet conversations over traditional Easter hot crossed buns.
Speaking with one inmate, he shared that during his first time in prison he visited the chapel once, found it “boring,” and didn’t return.
He decided to give it another try some time later. Since then, he has attended weekly for six months, saying he’s not sure what has changed, but he now enjoys coming and looks forward to spending more time in the chapel.
Special thanks to Parklea Correctional Centre’s Governor and staff as well as Richard Korkor, our Catholic Care prison chaplain, who kindly organised Bishop Vincent’s visit and the Holy Thursday Liturgy.
