One of the last events of the Jubilee Year will be dedicated to a group that Pope Francis often visits during his trips: those who are serving a prison sentence.
1,000 prisoners, and 3,000 prison workers will convene in Rome, including chaplains and former prisoners that have already served their time. The organizers said prisoners sentenced for life could attend, but none sentenced to death.
MSGR. RINO FISICHELLA
Jubilee of Mercy organizer
'In his visits to prisons the pope has always called for hope. It has been one of his most recurring talking points, and a very important one, since many prisoners lack basic freedom and can never see their families.â?
On Sunday, before Mass at 10 a.m., Pope Francis will hear the incredible stories of some of these prisoners. One of them, for example, will be joined by his victim, who has forgiven him. The pope will also hear the story of a person whose brother was killed, and a minor who serving a prison sentence, and a prisoner who found faith in jail.
MSGR. RINO FISICHELLA
Jubilee of Mercy organizer
'I think the pope is very close to the people because he knows the situations where the dignity of the person is so damaged that it is almost insufferable.â?
In fact, during his visits to prisons, Pope Francis has insisted in what he considers to be a key issue: reintegration.
POPE FRANCIS
February 17, 2016
'At times it may seem that prisons are intended more to prevent people from committing crimes than to promote the process of rehabilitation.â?
Pope Francis wishes that prisons go from being simple storage space to centers that help prisoners reintegrate in society. He is sure to remind the world once again of the need for change during this special jubilee.
JRB/AG
CTV
-
-BN
Up:ag
#Papafrancisco
