Submitted by Betty Downs, a Canyon Lake UMW

Muriel Oates, who has been a volunteer chaplain at the 587-bed facility at Pennington County Jail for eleven years, is crazy about the United Methodist Women’s unit from Canyon Lake UMC in Rapid City.

“These UMW women have been a godsend to my ministry,” says Rev. Oates, a Dakotas Conference clergy retiree.

The UMW unit of three circles (Brunch Bunch, Common Threads and Morning Glories) provide cookies for the officers at the jail three or four times a year. They have contributed many books to the prison library and helped finance 30 Bibles donated to inmates.

Muriel’s job is to encourage those jailed to attend groups, sponsored by volunteers, on abuse counseling, Bible study, AA, parenting and religion. She also spends time with a Native American drum group.

Captain Yantis of Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, recently recognized 50 of the 160 jail volunteers for their hours of caring in many different capacities. The event was held at Canyon Lake UMC’s Christian LIfe Center. UMW members provided refreshments and played host for Pennington County Sheriff Kevin Thom, Chief Deputy Brian Mueller, Captain Haga and Officer Steele.

“I am so appreciative of all they have done; they have been ministering right along with me as I volunteer my duties,” says Rev. Oates.