Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Castel Gandolfo (Agenzia Fides) - “Prisoners easily can be overwhelmed by feelings of isolation, shame and rejection that threaten to shatter their hopes and aspirations for the future. In this context Chaplains and their collaborators are called to be heralds of God's infinite compassion and forgiveness. In cooperation with civil authorities, they are entrusted with the weighty task of helping the incarcerated rediscover a sense of purpose so that, with God's grace, they can reform their lives, be reconciled with their families and friends, and, insofar as possible, assume the responsibilities and duties which will enable them to conduct upright and honest lives within society." Pope Benedict XVI said this on 6 September at Castel Gandolfo in his address to participants in the 12th World Congress of the International Commission of Catholic Prison Pastoral Care, currently being held in Rome on the theme: "Discovering the Face of Christ in Every Prisoner" (see Fides 5/9/2007).
“Your ministry requires much patience and perseverance - the Pope said - Not infrequently there are disappointments and frustrations. Strengthening the bonds that unite you with your bishops will enable you to find the support and guidance you need to raise awareness of your vital mission.”
The Pope continued "Judicial and penal institutions play a fundamental role in protecting citizens and safeguarding the common good. At the same time, they are to aid in rebuilding "social relationships disrupted by the criminal act committed" (cf. Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, 403). By their very nature, therefore, these institutions must contribute to the rehabilitation of offenders, facilitating their transition from despair to hope and from unreliability to dependability.”. In this task, the Pope underlined, public authorities must eschew "any means of punishment or correction that either undermine or debase the human dignity of prisoners… In this regard, I reiterate that the prohibition against torture cannot be contravened under any circumstances”.
Lastly the Pope said he hoped the Congress would offer the participants and opportunity to share their “experiences of the mysterious countenance of Christ shining through the faces of the imprisoned. I encourage you in your efforts to show that face to the world as you promote greater respect for the dignity of the detained. ”. (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 7/9/2007; righe 27, parole 379)
