Chaplain Richard Clements was warmly thanked by prisoners for his guidance with heart-felt performances of kapa haka, Pacific Island music and jazz at the first Wellington Prison cultural performance concert.
One of the prisoners said that the concert was also for their families.
The Pacific Island Group in action at the
Wellington Prison Cultural Performance.
“It’s a chance for us to thank Richard and our families for being there for us during our time in prison,” he said.
“By practising for the concert we have all learnt to work together,” he added.
Members of the kapa haka group thanked Richard individually. They said that his support, and the support of their families, allowed them to focus on making positive changes in their lives.
When the Pacific Island Group took the stage, they soon invited families and guests to dance with them as they sang.
“It’s important that we rejoice and praise God for bringing our families to the prison to be with us,” said one of the men.
The Jazz Band completed the performance - a particular crowd-pleaser was the John Paul Young classic Love is in the Air, which had delighted family members and guests tapping their feet and singing along.
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ISSN 1178-8453