yesterday. i saw the power of G-d and the futile anger of satan. I went to prison to pray with and console a 16 year old prisoner---innocent, terrified, a good boy. I had resolved to pray the simple exorcism of Leo XIII---it is not what you think: it is simply a prayer to thwart the power of the evil one, not to exorcise anything from this poor boy. When I arrived, the ward was silent. After saying the prayer to Michael the Archangel and beginning the Leo XIII prayer proper, the entire ward erupted into a clamorous din I have never heard before: and I was in a private side room with my charge--no one should have been able to hear us. It continued until the prayer was over and then abruptly ceased.

that place is so full of hatred and fear. I tried to explain to my charge that I have come to provide spiritual guidance and protection, but that I cannot guarantee what the Judge will say at his (then upcoming) hearing (which is today). But I looked him straight in the eye and said: right now you think the world is this moment--but this moment, however terrible, is but one moment: God wants to alleviate your suffering, yes, but the greater truth: God. Wants. You.

I hope this had an impact. For I know that God had chosen this boy, this young man, to be one of his servants. At any rate, through me he claimed him. And nothing happens except by the will or permission of God.

I won't list all of the many circumstances that feebly attempted to thrwart me. Before, I have entered that prison with no problems at all. This time, I had been shunted from one unit to another, finally told to leave because the ward in which my charge was confined had had 'incidents'---FOUR fights had broken out that day, and pepper spray had been used. After calling to ensure the 'coast was clear', I was still told to go away. I refused. I was finally allowed to wait inside the prison. There, I was assured I would be allowed to visit my charge soon. I was abandoned. Finally, after I confronted (politely) the guards, I was allowed to enter. The guards, whom I know, who had previously been polite, were insulting to my charge as he was called down to meet me. My God. it was amazing.

But all this was nothing but the lashing about of uncontrolled energy: it is no match for the overwhelming, serene and controlled power of our Lord. Tears come to my eyes now as I think of it. But at the time, I was dry-eyed, clear, direct and intense. I've never prayed such a powerful prayer over anyone before. My alb touched to my charge's body in protection, my other hand pressed on his head. My voice commanding.

Sweet Jesus, I do not know where this is all leading. Let it lead to the greater glory of God and let it lead to the remaking of the earth: one child at a time.

May Almighty God make of me a tower of guard, a force of good will, a pillar of strength, a conduit for his grace--this grace which is 14 trillion times greater than any power on this earth.