Prisons’ Sunday on 13 October marks the start of the annual week of prayer to raise awareness of issues faced by those affected by the criminal justice system.
It is a day of prayer and action for prisoners and their dependents across Christian denominations, working together to make a difference for people out of sight and often out of mind. It will be marked in the Cathedral with the Criminal Justice Affairs Group (CJAG) having an input to the morning service.
For the past nine years CJAG has attempted to shine a light on criminal justice issues which affect the whole of our society. The situation is grim with an increasingly punitive approach resulting in prison numbers growing, inhumane living conditions and a lack of resources to address offending-related problems such as poor mental health and drugs. There is little available support in the community and so the cycle of offending continues.
Please pray for all those in and affected by the criminal justice system, and for the work of CJAG and all those working for a more compassionate and humane approach to crime:
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.
