Prisoners Archives

‘Extraordinary’ program guides inmates’ journey to the world

Nov 28, 2019

A voluntary faith and character-based program, created by state law, aims to assist inmates in their adjustment to prison, help them take responsibility for their actions and reduce recidivism, meaning the tendency to relapse into criminal behavior.

By Associated Press

Concern for inmates, prison reform is obligatory act of mercy, pope says

Nov 8, 2019

Visiting the imprisoned is an act of mercy that has implications for all Christians and not just those involved in prison ministry, Pope Francis said.

By Cindy Wooden

Pope offers pat-on-the-back for Ukrainian, Russian prisoner exchange

Sep 15, 2019

On Sunday Pope Francis gave a shout-out to Ukraine and Russia for the recent exchange of 70 prisoners, voicing not only his happiness for those set free, but his hope that the gesture would help bring an end to the ongoing conflict between the two nations.

By Elise Harris

Texas prison ministries bring grace, sacraments behind bars

Sep 1, 2019

A longtime effort of Kolbe Prison Ministries and Texas diocesan correction ministries, Kolbe prison retreats, named for the Polish martyr, offer incarcerated men and women the chance to experience God’s redemptive grace and mercy with a weekend featuring the sacraments, small-group sharing and more, organizers said.

By James Ramos

Pope demands respect for Geneva Conventions as anniversary looms

Aug 11, 2019

Often an outspoken champion for the protection of the most vulnerable, Pope Francis on Sunday issued an appeal for the international community to adhere to legal limitations for times of war outlined in the Geneva Conventions, the 70th anniversary of which will take place Monday.

By Elise Harris

Be servants to one another, pope tells prisoners before washing feet

Apr 18, 2019

Jesus’ gesture of washing his disciples’ feet, an act once reserved to servants and slaves, is one that all Christians, especially bishops, must imitate, Pope Francis told hundreds of inmates and prison employees on Holy Thursday.

By Junno Arocho Esteves