How do we welcome people who have their lives turned around for the better? Do we sing with the angels? Here’s our daily reflection.
You can find the readings for Thursday of Week 31 (memorial of St Illtyd) here
According to government figures, around 75% of ex-prisoners reoffend within nine years, and 40% within the first year. Adult offenders have a proven reoffending rate of over 27%
We often think of prison as being a place where those who have broken the law are punished—which of course it is, but it is more than. It also keeps society safe from the most violent and hardened of criminals. However, an important part of the prison system is rehabilitation. With the numbers of those reoffending, we have every right to ask the question, whether the system works.
In the gospel, Jesus is criticised for welcoming sinners and eating with them. In his response through his parables, he illustrates how God goes out of his way to rescue those who have lost their way in life. “I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.’
We know that many people are affected by the criminal justice system: offenders and their families, victims and the wider community. How do we view those who have gone astray? Are we intent solely on punishing offenders, or do we want to give them a chance to rehabilitate and become responsible citizens? Do we rejoice like the angels when one person turns their life around? Or do we view them with cynicism and suspicion? How often do we pray for those who have done something wrong?
Mass today on Thursday 6 November is at Ss Dyfrig and Samson at 10am
South Cardiff Ministry Area 