Connecting Our Dismas Fellowship Communities

Dismas, A Best Kept Secret?

Paul Tuck, Community Coordinator

Not too long ago, a fellow that I correspond with (he's in jail) told me that "Dismas is the best kept secret!" Perhaps he meant it as a compliment, but I didn't receive it as such. I don't want the fine work we do to be a secret! I want the whole world to know about Dismas! We are trying hard to get the news out that Dismas Fellowships offer a safe environment for individuals who have experienced incarceration and an opportunity to find community and acceptance.

This is why we have increased our online presence, particularly in social media (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn). This is why we are connecting with other groups to find some synergy in what we do. This is why we've been traveling to promote Dismas Fellowships (Eileen Henderson and I just got back from an electrifying evening in Kingston!) Do you want to get "the secret" out? Will you help us promote this one of a kind ministry that can make a real difference in the lives of so many? Let's get the word out!

On Friday, June 6 Toronto West will launch with an "Information Night" primalrily for potential volunteers, and then proceed "full steam ahead." The new group is organized under the board of "Toronto East" and will meet on the first Friday of each month, while the original Toronto Dismas will continue to meet on the third Friday of every month.

Community Coordinator Paul Tuck and DFN Chair, Eileen Henderson travelled to Kingston on May 27 to meet with some interested volunteers and potential attendees of a new Dismas Fellowship in that city.

The new Dismas will potentially meet at St Joseph Church , 392 Palace Road in Kingston.

Brockville Blessings!

Dismas Brockville reports meeting on May 12 with a supper of BBQ chicken and salads (and of course, some yummy desserts.) Eric Richards shared a testimonial called "The Life of an Inmate" addressing the struggles inmates face upon release. He is celebrating 7 years of freedom since his release. Earlier in the month Eric was invited to speak at Joyceville prison for 2 sessions. He had the opportunity to encourage over 50 inmates and shared with them some crucial information about Dismas Fellowships.

Cambridge Victoria Day BBQ

Dismas Fellowship Cambridge has had a string of meetings on holidays! May was no different, with our meeting falling on Victoria Day. We decided to enjoy our gathering outside with a BBQ and noshed on burgers and hotdogs with salads and fixins. And of course, no bbq is complete without ice cream for dessert. Thanks Mark H for slaving away on the grill! We were delighted to have 4 visitors from Dismas Woodstock in attendance!

By early evening the wind was too chilly for some, so we moved indoors to finish our time together with singing and the reflection time. As folks were leaving, Rosemary Redshaw gave out some free bread (they had an overflow) that had been donated to the Freedom Centre.

Buena Comida in Guelph.

Dismas Fellowship Guelph picked up a little momemtum with 2 first time guests on May 7. The group enjoyed Pam Tuck's "Chilequeles" (Mexican Lasagna) with rice, beans and tortilla chips. Lynn made brownies for dessert and Nancy made cupcakes. We were privileged to hear a short presentation from Eileen Henderson who shared some vivid stories from her recent mission trip to Rwanda. Hearts were both touched and challenged.

Hamilton Hospitality at its Best!

Dismas Hamilton met on May 16. Jeff and the kitchen crew made "Deep Dish Nachos" with salad and extra tortilla chips. We celebrated the birthdays of Rick and Sylvia and it was announced that Jim and Shelly (two attendees) will be getting married in June! Jon brought a great reflection called "Wait 'Til the Mixin' is Done!"

Kitchener Remembers Rwanda.

We had a great meeting of the new Dismas Fellowship KW at Stirling Mennonite Church. William prepared a feast of homemade meatloaf with lots of sides and for dessert there was pecan pie and Janet's gluten free upside-down cake. Eileen Henderson shared stories from her Restorative Justice trip to Rwanda (which she has done for over 16 years). What a delightful and soul stirring evening.

Dismas Niagara Meeting #3

Dismas Niagara met on May 26 with a very good attendance. Some folks from St. Barnabas prepared an outstanding meal of roast beef, potatoes and vegetables with a variety of homemade desserts. In the Circle, Matt shared a heartfelt reflection about his love for dogs and asked the simple question, "What makes you feel content or happy?"

EZ DISMAS RECIPES (A New Segment)

Pam Tuck's "Mexican Lasagna"

INGREDIENTS:

1 Bag Corn Tortilla Chips

1 Large jar of salsa (hot, medium, or mild)

1 can of cream of chicken soup

1 carton chicken broth

2 - 3 cups cooked chicken - deboned and shredded 

2 - 3 cups Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese (depends on how cheesy you want it)

This dish layers like a lasagna, with the chips taking the place of noodles.

Grease a 9 x 11 baking pan or casserole dish

Combine the salsa, soup, broth, and chicken in a large bowl.

Start with a layer of chips in the pan. Pour 1/2 of the chicken mixture over the chips. 

Cover with half of the cheese—repeat layers.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 - 60 minutes until cheese is bubbly. 

You can put this dish together and leave it uncooked in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to bake it. 

If frozen, you will need to increase cooking time. 

To make more than one pan, double or triple ingredients as needed.

Serve with sour cream, salsa, and chips. Enjoy!

Did you know that you can support your local Dismas Group and receive a donation receipt for income taxes?

The easiest way to support your local Dismas is to go to the Friends of Dismas Canada Helps Page, scroll down and select which Dismas you want to support.

You can click on the button below and make a secure donation.

SOCIAL MEDIA and WEBSITE UPDATES!

Carina Tran, is doing our social media posts. Please add us to your social media and share with others!

We are happy to announce that "TeeMan" from Hamilton is upgrading and editing our website. Take a look!

(Some direct links can be found below)

Do you need help, training, supplies or just someone to bounce ideas off of?

Call Paul Tuck at

(647) 525-8245

Or click below to send an email.