code orange

Yesterday I wrote about the "Code Orange" alert level that has now been in effect for a couple of weeks. As a result, most of our Bible studies and services have been cancelled.

I am counting my blessings, however. I am thankful because not everything has been stopped.

Our chapel is still open every Sunday morning for the main worship service, as this event is overseen and run by my chaplain, who is a New York

State employee, and not simply a volunteer minister.

In addition, we have our Sunday afternoon beginnier's Bible class, and we have a great time in it. Plus the prayer meetings and choir practices are still continuing. These things are also supervised by the chaplain.

Nevertheless, perhaps upwards of 85 percent of our Christian activities have been cancelled. The affects of the tragic September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks are still rippling across the country, even in here.

But as this year begins, I hope to renew my strength as well as make a fresh start.

I never make new year's resolutions. However I do hope to get closer to the Lord with more prayer time and deeper studies into the Scriptures.

I pray, too, that the Lord presents more opportunites in 2004 for meto tell others what He has done in my life. I always want to be an

encouragement for those who feel as if they have no hope.

Likewise, I desire to be a faithful servant for Jesus my Messiah as I live out my life in this prison.

David Berkowitz

January 2, 2004