"I was in prison and you came to visit me" (Matt. 25:36 NIV).

Indiana—These words, included in a parable of Jesus, highlight an example of the caring ministry of His people. On Sabbath, Dec. 9, 2006, approximately 18 students and staff members from Indiana Academy (IA) were privileged to participate in a prison ministry called “Christmas Behind Bars.” Under the direction of Lemuel Vega, from Bluffton, Ind., a large group of volunteers gathered at the Marion Seventh-day Adventist Church to assemble Christmas gift bags for prisoners in a variety of county and state prison facilities.

Each year the number of prisoners who have been reached through this unique outreach has increased; 7,000 bags were prepared this year. During the holiday season, other volunteers distributed the bags to waiting prisoners in the respective prisons.

At first glance, the process seemed overwhelming as IA students and staff members approached the packaging assembly line. Very quickly, however, the process fell into a rhythm as the grocery bags were stuffed with gifts. Gift items included Christian literature, Bible study enrollment cards, snacks, fresh fruit, peanuts, toiletry items, and Christmas cards.

Among the volunteers were members of a youth group from another denomination in northern Indiana. The opportunity for IA students to interact with their peers from another faith group was positive as they worked together in this selfless ministry.

Reflecting on the event, Megan Dupont, a senior student, said, “I felt happy that we could be helpful to others on Sabbath during Christmas time, working for the good of others who are in jail on the holidays.”

Jessica McConnell, also a senior, said, “It was really cool to know we were helping so many people in so many places. We were able to bond with others and have fellowship with other people from other churches.”

Beth Bartlett, Indiana Academy registrar