Informal style
- This is probably the first and last time you will see me with my ”dog’s collar”, commented Reidar Faanes who is more accustomed to adopting an informal approach in his work as prison chaplain. The simple ordination ceremony was conducted by Cathedral Dean - Olav Dag Hauge from Oslo Diocese. The tone of the ceremony itself was also somewhat informal. The bishop’s formal letter of appointment was read to participants before a short speech was held on the importance of the work of chaplains in the prison community. Olav Hauge clearly enjoyed himself as he recounted how he had told others that he was going to Oslo Prison to appoint a priest!
Chaplains contribute in many areas
Short speeches were also made by Director of Oslo Prison - Are Høidal, and Regional Director - Ellinor Houm, on behalf of the Norwegian Correctional Services (“kriminalomsorgen”). Both emphasised the importance of the work of chaplains within the prison. And even though prison chaplains receive their salary from the Church, this certainly does not prevent them from contributing in many areas within the prison environment. They are also actively engaged in tasks together with prison management and with all other members of the prison staff. As Faanes commented: if he is to help the inmates it is essential for him to have a close relationship with all members of staff too.
10 years experience
Reidar Faanes is one of two chaplains at Oslo Prison and has the responsibility for Department B. He brings with him ten years experience from his chaplaincy at Ullersmo Prison (approx. 55 km north of Oslo). He is, therefore, well prepared for his new tasks at Oslo Prison. He estimates that approximately 80% of his time will be spent on conversations with inmates, and he will, of course, speak with persons from all religions. – My job is not to be a missionary – conversations with inmates range from dealing with practical issues to the deepest personal crises, he comments as he emphasises of course the importance of confidentiality and discretion practised in his dealings with everyone.
Church Services every Sunday
Church Services are held every Sunday in the prison. In addition to the chaplains taking turns to lead the church services, the local Oslo Missionary Society and the Salvation Army also take turns. Other volunteers also participate to sing, play music, and also to chat with the inmates after the sermon. Due to capacity restrictions the number of participants is limited to 26 persons – and there are rarely spare places to be found.
- Inmates experience the church services to be spiritually stimulating and there is rarely any form of disturbance, comments Faanes, who also tells a story from his time at Ullersmo Prison, when he met a sacristan inmate who had been a member of the Hells Angels.
- He certainly kept order in the ranks, of that you can be certain!
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