Sunday 15th November is the beginning of Prisons Week. It’s a time of prayer for the many people affected by the reality of crime and imprisonment, as we explore what hope can be for all those affected and how people and relationships can be restored. Here’s some material to help us reflect:
We live in a troubled world where it’s easy for some to lose hope, and that can be particularly true for those affected by the reality of crime.
The challenge of Prisons Week 2009 is to ‘hold fast to hope’ – a hope that’s not just a fanciful optimism, but one that is rooted in the Christian hope that the divine spark is in all people, that no-one is beyond redemption, and that change does and can take place.
Hebrews 10. 23-25
“Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another.”
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 activities 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.
For more information: http://www.prisonsweek.org/2009/
