CAthOLIC CRIMINAL JUSTICE CHAPLAINCIES CCJC

The CCJC Forum on "Inmate Lives Matter" is an impactful and meaningful initiative that seeks to involve a diverse range of stakeholders. Chaplains, legislators, police, courts, correctional professionals, offenders, ex-offenders, victims, and families are all encouraged to participate. This initiative is specifically designed from a female perspective and guided by the principles of Catholic social thought. By bringing together a range of voices and perspectives, this forum has the potential to drive positive change and elevate the importance of prisoner welfare in the public discourse.

Our initiative is remarkable as it fosters an environment of open communication, mutual understanding, and collective action across diverse perspectives in the criminal justice system. By embracing restorative justice, we can extend compassion and support to all involved, while redemptive justice allows personal growth and transformation. Join us in our mission to create a more just and equitable society.

1. Opening Ceremony:

• Begin with a prayer and a message emphasizing the sanctity of life and the Catholic commitment to justice and mercy.

2. Keynote Address:

• Invite a prominent figure from the Catholic community or a respected Catholic leader in criminal justice to deliver a keynote address.

3. Chaplaincy in Corrections:

• Organize sessions discussing Catholic chaplaincy's unique role in providing inmates spiritual support and guidance by clergy and laity.
• Highlight successful chaplaincy programs and their impact on rehabilitation. Redemptive justice is what is done within you.

4. Legislation and Policy:

• Engage legislators to discuss how Catholic principles can influence criminal justice policies.
• Explore ways to advocate for legislation that aligns with Catholic social teachings on justice and mercy. Restorative justice is what is done for you.

5. Law Enforcement and Courts:

• Include sessions with police officers and judiciary members discussing their challenges and the importance of compassionate justice.
• Emphasize the principles of restorative justice and Catholic teachings on forgiveness.

6. Correctional Programs:

• Showcase Catholic-led rehabilitation and education programs within correctional facilities.
• Discuss the role of faith-based initiatives in promoting positive change among inmates.

7. Testimonials and Stories:

• Feature personal stories from ex-offenders who have experienced transformation through their faith.
• Include victims' perspectives and stories of forgiveness and healing.

8. Family and Community Support:

• Address the impact of incarceration on families and communities from a Catholic perspective.
• Explore ways dioceses and Catholic organizations can support families affected by the criminal justice system.

9. Theological Reflections:

• Provide theological reflections on the concept of redemption, forgiveness, and the Catholic call to serve those who are marginalized.

10. Networking and Collaboration:

• Facilitate networking opportunities for chaplains, legislators, law enforcement, and other attendees to collaborate on initiatives that align with Catholic values.

11. Closing Virtual Mass or Prayer Service:

• Conclude the conference with a Virtual Mass or prayer service, emphasizing the collective commitment to justice, mercy, and the inherent dignity of every individual.

The CCJC Forum is a powerful platform for promoting respectful dialogue, collaboration, and sharing of best practices in the context of criminal justice reform from a Catholic perspective. It seeks to highlight the principles of restorative and redemptive justice, which are central to the broader mission of the Catholic Church in promoting human dignity and social justice. By bringing together people from diverse backgrounds, the CCJC Forum hopes to foster a culture of mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation that can positively impact the criminal justice system. Join us in this important endeavor to make a difference in the world. creates a space for respectful dialogue, collaboration, and sharing of best practices to improve the criminal justice system from a Catholic perspective and emphasize the principles of restorative justice and redemptive justice with the broader mission of the Catholic Church in promoting human dignity and social justice.