A creative response to need in challenging time
Chaplains of all faiths at the Tarrengower Women’s Prison, located at Maldon Central Victoria, found it particularly difficult to engage with the residents on their return to the prison after the lockdowns held during COVID-19.
During the pandemic and lockdowns, the prison chaplains had aimed to stay connected with residents by sending them greetings with reflective messages. It had been a long time since they had seen one another face-to-face.
Once the chaplains were able to return on site to meet with the residents, the number of women at Tarrengower Prison had reduced significantly and engageing with them was a challenge. They were unknown to many of the women who had arrived during the lockdowns.
Prison Management encouraged the chaplains to think of some creative ways to engage with the women for pastoral conversation. One of the chaplains organised a book club, another organised knitting projects and another was able to continue her positive lifestyles program.
One of our CCV Chaplains, Trish Sharkey, organised for the women to work with mosaics as there were many donated tiles in the art room at the prison.
Whilst participating in these activities, conversations were interspersed, connections were made, and people were again engaging with one another again. Building blocks for the nurturing and growth of self were set in place – good foundations for a way forward.
At Tarrengower Prison, a Tranquil Garden has served as a reflective place for residents and staff to go to for over twenty years. Concrete slabs were laid at each end by the horticulture residents, so the garden had a tail and head, giving it the shape of a snake.
The mosaic thus started to take form in the shape of a snake – snakes shed their skin and reveal a new skin. Across many faiths and cultures, we learn of this, including for our Indigenous culture, other eastern faiths, and Christianity.
Children of the mums at the prison also got involved in creating this beautiful piece of art during their school holidays.
Their finished mosaic art piece was eventually unveiled and the event attended by the staff, residents and chaplains at Tarrengower Prison in 2024.
“The snake symbol is hope that residents of Tarrengower, upon their release, will shed their old way of life and leave from here with a new ‘skin’ ready to face the world again with a renewed resolve for living life well, if not shining!
The rainbow serpent features in Indigenous stories and in many biblical stories. The Aboriginal people believe that the rainbow serpent was God’s messenger, teaching moral and spiritual laws. It is a life giver as the rainbow serpent is a creator.” – Trish Sharkey
It is hoped that this project is inspirational for all the women as they leave Tarrengower Prison. A delightful occasion enjoyed by all present.
Our chaplains visit men and women in every prison and correctional centre in Victoria. They listen, connect, and endeavour to understand and comfort people who may otherwise feel lost or abandoned. They work as part of an interfaith network, working alongside chaplains from many other faith groups.
