“I was in prison and you came to see me.” Matthew 25:36
Prisoners’ Sunday is the national day of prayer and action for prisoners and their dependants as marked by the Catholic Church and across the Christian denominations. It is a day to direct our thoughts and prayers to prisoners, their families and children. Prisoners’ Sunday is the time to reflect on how we as individuals, as a Church and as a community are serving those affected by imprisonment.
Pact, the Prisons Advice and Care Trust is the national Catholic charity supporting prisoners, people with convictions, and their families. This year marks 125 years since the charity’s formation as the Catholic Prisoners’ Aid Society. Today Pact supports people of all faiths and none, working in more than 60 prisons, in courts, and in communities across England and Wales. The support of Catholic parishes has been and continues to be invaluable.
Our Bishop Richard is the Liaison Bishop for Prisons for the Catholic Bishops’ Conference (CBCEW) and works closely with Catholic charity Pact. Highlighting the impact of Pact’s mission and vision he said: ”Pact’s work is deeply rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, restoring hope and dignity to thousands of people affected by imprisonment. Staff and volunteers work in 68 prisons across England and Wales. We know that retaining strong family bonds is a significant factor in preventing reoffending; Pact’s care and practical support help people in prison stay connected with their families.” Listen to Bishop Richard here
Parish Second Collections this weekend will support the work of Pact and enable the charity to do more for prisoners and their families. Help Pact build bridges of hope for prisoners and their families this October. Donate to Prisoners Sunday Appeal
Prisoners’ Sunday marks the first day of the ecumenical Prisons’ Week (13-19 October), a dedicated week of prayer across our Christian communities. The 2024 Campaign is Jesus looked at him, and loved him. This year you are invited to remember that he looks at you and loves you, as he looks at them and loves them.
Prisons Week aims to encourage prayer and awareness of the needs of prisoners and their families, victims of offenders, prisons staff and all those who care, reflected in the Prisons Week Prayer offered throughout the week:
The Prisons Week prayer
Lord, you offer freedom to all people. We pray for those in prison. Break the bonds of fear and isolation that exist. Support with your love prisoners and their families and friends, prison staff and all who care. Heal those who have been wounded by the actions of others, especially the victims of crime. Help us to forgive one another, to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly together with Christ in his strength and in his Spirit, now and every day. Amen