A group of teen-agers called “Shining Light” sang and danced their way into the hearts of hundreds of San Quentin inmates in June.
The group from Lebanon, Pennsylvania, at first appeared somewhat apprehensive about performing in front of a large group of convicts. But once the show began, with the music thumping and the youngsters gracefully dancing in twos, threes until the whole stage was covered with their rhythmic motions.
They performed to the lyrics of “Push-Push-Pull, Keep on Moving” and the expressions of “Free from the hordes of emotions affecting mankind, freedom through Christ,” it became obvious that this show was something special.
After the singing and dancing, the stage was set up for acting with an educational delivery. Signs displayed key words: ADDICTION, DEPRESSION, ABUSIVE and PARALYSED. With stern expressions, the young actors defined the powerful meaning of these words, all the while causing the viewers to think critically over the impact it had over their lives.
The second act brought in a kid named “John Paul,” a “Wonderfully, Especially Made creature, more precious to God, more than the moon and the sun.” He was showing us how a young boy tries to fit in with the crowd, and that regardless of their rejection, or his imperfect flaws, he was no mere mortal. He could just be himself, just as he was created by the creator.
We witnessed testimonials of abusive families, of the hopelessness a child must face alone in the world. Yet we were able to discern that there was a way to make it stop, to find that small portion of self-worth in our heart, and the freedom to live life on life’s terms was available through Christ Jesus.
The “Shining Light” ministry showed us through their songs, that “You can make it in this thing called life.” With a powerful and soulful rendition they sang, “Get up now, get up now.” The entire audience stood to clap, swing and sing along with the “Shining Light” teens.
We knew the show would end and that we would have to go back to our hot steel cells. But one thing that would make our return much easier than before was that into our minds and hearts a small seed of hope was planted by a group of young Lebanon teens. We knew with some certainty that change is hard work. But, as you keep working, focusing, and leave all the baggage behind, work for the future, then the hope for living in this world shall be restored.
Because the “Shining Light” were minors at an adult prison, the policy of non-contact was in effect. The teens and the prisoners were not able to hug or shake hands. We were only able to wave.
Associate Warden Curzon thanked them for a wonderful show, and on behalf of Warden Cullen he extended a standing invitation for a return performance.
