Being Dominican

Sister Stories

Reflection on Preaching: Eleanor Lang, OP

Sr. Eleanor Lang, OP Since my retirement I have found another way to carry on the charism of Holy Preaching of the Dominican Order through prison ministry.

My primary involvement in prison ministry now is through the Kairos Program, an international program based on the Cursillo method for Christian Living, adapted for incarcerated persons. It consist of three days spent in prayer, listening to talks on all aspects of Christian living, discussions, and music all of which is presented by a group of volunteers.  I feel that my Holy Preaching is evident not only in formal homilies but during our one on one conversations where I explain their misunderstanding of scripture, offer support and encourage each to follow a Christian way of living now and after they are released.  One of the most important gifts that we offer is the knowledge of God’s love, mercy and forgiveness and their need to forgive others, as well as themselves. We then try to prepare them for their fourth day, which is the rest of their life.  We encourage them to become active members in the Church once they are released.

In my preaching to them I come home with a deeper faith and a closer relationship with my God.  I feel that I receive more than I could ever give.