Westchester Reporter

Westchester County Department of Correction Commissioner Joseph K. Spano announced that His Eminence Timothy Cardinal Dolan of the New York Archdiocese conducted a mass at the facility. The event was attended by 60 residents, Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins, WDOC personnel, Correction Advisory Board members, New York State Commission of Correction personnel, and clergy from various faiths. The mass focused on themes of unity and redemption during the holiday season.

Commissioner Spano expressed gratitude for Cardinal Dolan's visit: “We are mindful that being incarcerated during the holiday season presents additional challenges for our residents and their families. To have his Eminence Cardinal Dolan say Mass for our residents leading up to the Christmas Holiday is truly a gift and one that is sure to have a positive impact on their lives.”

Deputy County Executive Jenkins added: “It was truly an honor for our Department of Correction to host this solemn ceremony during the holiday season. A time to be thankful for what we have and to focus on helping those who are less fortunate. Cardinal Dolan’s support and words of encouragement were impactful and surely benefited attending residents.”

Deputy Commissioner Michael Gerald highlighted the importance of religious support in rehabilitation efforts: “Support from the religious community plays a major role in our rehabilitation efforts, both during and after incarceration. This special mass is a blessing that dovetails well with the robust on-site spiritual care services being offered to support the diverse faiths and needs of our residents.”

Cardinal Dolan's message emphasized hope, love, and redemption. He previously visited the Westchester County DOC in December 2021 when he held mass for about 50 female residents.

The mass included participation from DOC Director of Pastoral Care Chaplain Vicki Mills, Associate Director Father Jude Egbeji, Father Gonzalo Morocho, Rabbi Abraham Horowitz, Reverend Rick Vargas, Imam Ismail Rashid, and Father Ihor Vorortsov. They assist with worship phases including sacrament celebration, scripture studies, correspondence study programs, religious material distribution, and follow-up ministry.

The Westchester County Department of Correction is recognized nationally for its rehabilitation program system and holds accreditation certifications through several organizations.