Archdiocese Corrections Ministry honors Sister Dorothy Rasche

The Corrections Ministry of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis recently honored Sister of Providence Sister Dorothy Rasche, SP, for her ministry work at the Rockville Correctional Facility.

The Corrections Ministry conducted its annual conference on October 9 at Roncalli High School in Indianapolis and presented Sister Dorothy with the 2021 Corrections Ministry Service Award.

“It’s nice to have been recognized for the number of years I’ve ministered in the prison ministry,” Sister Dorothy said.

Corrections Ministry Coordinator Deacon Marc Kellams said he could think of no one worthier of receiving the award.

“Sister Dorothy is a stalwart in visiting those who are incarcerated,” Deacon Marc said. “Sister Dorothy has not only given of her life to serve those imprisoned. She has brought inspiration and hope to those who are incarcerated.”

Sister Dorothy began her ministry work at the facility in 1997. She said she was at a luncheon with Father Joe Kern (RIP), who ministered at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, and he had requested the assistance of the Sisters of Providence with the ministry.

For the most part, since 1997, Sister Dorothy has been a mainstay for those incarcerated at the all-women facility, visiting them on Friday evenings from 7-8:30 p.m. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions, Sister Dorothy’s visits to the facility stopped in 2020 and half of 2021, but she was able to visit the inmates again beginning this past summer.

“The purpose is to bring Christ to the women,” Sister Dorothy said. “All we can promise them is that we will pray for them.”

Deacon Marc said the work Sister Dorothy and others do in prison ministry is critical for the inmates.

“Ninety-five percent of those who are imprisoned are eventually released,” Deacon Marc said. “If they are released with a love of the Lord in their hearts, they have a much better chance to be successful and thus not recidivate. Recognizing her selfless service is a mere token of our appreciation.

“Ministry in the jails and prisons could not occur without the selfless acts of so many who have dedicated their time and prayer to serve. People like Sister Dorothy faithfully visit inside the walls and serve as the face of Christ to those who are so desperate for hope. Christ gives them that hope.”