In a truly groundbreaking initiative, Living Parchment Ministry (LPM) successfully conducted a four-day health expo at the Federal Prison Commission Higher Security Center, also known as Aba Samuel Higher Security Prison in Gelan sub-city, from March 26-29. This marked the very first time such a comprehensive health outreach had been extended to the all-male inmate population of this higher-security facility, which houses approximately 5,000 prisoners across four zones.
LPM secured permission from the Federal Prison Commission, paving the way for a remarkable week. The team, comprising 5 dedicated medical doctors, 4 skilled nurses, and 13 invaluable volunteers – a total of 26 participants – received a warm welcome from prison officials on the first day.
Ahead of this four-day service, the team had engaged in a special program of prayer and fasting, submitting everything to God and earnestly seeking His guidance for the health expo and their interactions. Lizibie Fentaw, Living Parchment Ministry’s Circulation Head, meticulously organized and coordinated this entire effort from the very beginning.
A Zone-by-Zone Impact
The expo unfolded across different zones of the prison, reaching hundreds of prisoners. Each health check-up included blood pressure readings, blood glucose monitoring, a stress test with pulse at rest, followed by another measurement after a light stretch. BMI (Body Mass Index) and body fat were also measured. These comprehensive services were paired with medical, spiritual, and psychological counseling.
- Day 1 (Zone 1): The team provided health services to 110 prisoners. Importantly, 20 inmates committed to Bible study.
- Day 2 (Zone 2): Building on the success of the first day, 220 prisoners received health check-ups and counseling, with 25 individuals deciding to study the Bible.
- Day 3 (Zone 3): The momentum continued as 250 prisoners accessed health services, and 30 more registered for Bible study.
- Day 4 (Zone 4 – Sick Bay): The final day focused on Zone 4, an area dedicated to sick prisoners and also housing very high-level inmates. Of the 34 prisoners in this zone, the team provided check-ups and counseling to 25 of them. Twelve prisoners from this zone committed to Bible study.
By the end of the four days, LPM had served a total of 605 prisoners with vital health check-ups and counseling, leading to an impressive 87 individuals registering for Bible study.
Addressing Loneliness and Offering Spiritual Comfort
Beyond physical health, the LPM team encountered a significant number of prisoners battling deep loneliness and distress, with some even contemplating suicide. The counseling sessions, combined with prayer and simply the genuine presence of the visitors, had a profound impact. Many prisoners expressed how deeply moved they were by the visit, noting that they often feel neglected and profoundly lonely.
In addition to the medical and spiritual care, numerous books were distributed. For the Amharic-speaking prisoners, 176 copies of Christ’s Object Lessons, various other Spirit of Prophecy books, and many tracts were thoughtfully given. For the non-Ethiopian English-speaking prisoners, books like The Desire of Ages and other relevant titles were provided.
These materials were given to individual prisoners and also left at the small library in each zone, ensuring ongoing access to spiritual nourishment. Notably, some well-known individuals imprisoned in the facility were also able to participate in and benefit from the services.
The entire expo, including medical supplies, books, and other related expenses, amounted to close to 40,000 Birr, or about 300 dollars. This significant cost was covered through a combination of generous donations and LPM’s own resources.
Living Parchment Ministry extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, especially the dedicated medical doctors and health professionals who volunteered their time and expertise to make this pioneering event a success.
