January 2021 Vol. XVIII - FROM THE INCARNATE TO THE INCARCERATED Issue 5
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January 2021 Vol. XVIII Issue 5 NATIONAL MONTHLY 40/-
FROM THE INCARNATE
TO THE INCARCERATED
PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021 1
Christmas Celebration at Christmas Celebration and Criket
Chavakkad Subjail Match at Sagar Central Jail
Christmas Celebration at Aluva Christmas Celebration at
Subjail Ambikapur Central Prison
First PMI Prayer Group Members at Christmas Celebration at Banda
St Apostolic Seminary Kottayam 1981-1988 Subjail
Christmas Celebration at Christmas Celebration at
2 Bengaluru Central PrisonPRISON Berhampur
VOICE Central
: JANUARY Jail
-2021
Christmas Celebration at Jashpur Christmas Celebration at
Prison Jharsuguda Subjail
Christmas Celebration at Christmas Celebration at
Jharsuguda Women Prison Kalaburgi Prison
Christmas Celebration at Open Air Christmas Celebration at
Prison, Devanahalli Ottapalam Subjail
Christmas Celebration at Pala Christmas Celebration at Vaithiri
PRISON VSubjail
OICE : JANUARY -2021 Prison 3
Christmas Celebration with the Mentally Christmas Celebrations and Medical
Challenged Children, Bengaluru Camp at Joherganj Sub Jail
Christmas Holy Mass and Celebration at CST Little Flower Major Seminarians
Ernakulam District Jail Visiting Ernakulam District Jail
Jail day Celebrations at Jail Welfare Day Celebration at
Attakulangara Women Prison Kottayam Prison
Jesus Youth Audio Visual Team Performing PMI Bengaluru Celebrates
Music cum Drama Show at Ernakulam Christmas at Jeevodaya
4
District Jail
P RISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021
Contents
Patron
Most Rev Dr Allwyn D'Silva
NATIONAL MONTHLY
Managing Editor
Rev Dr Francis Kodiyan MCBS
Chief Editor
Sr Amala DC
Circulation Managers
Fr Benny Thomas Pachanal CRSP
Fr Rajendra Kumar
Editorial Board
Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his
Fr G J Anthonysamy
blood, you have no life in you. Those who eat my flesh Fr Wilfred Fernandes
and drink my blood have eternal life, and I will raise Fr David MSC
Sr Jobina UFS
them up on the last day (Jn 6, 53-54)
Magazine Staff
Ms Teena Antony, PhD
Editor’s View.....................................06 Sr Basil SCS
Are You Willing? Sr Joanna SCS
Sr Rosily SCC
National Coordinator’s Desk.............07
“Help a Prisoner's Child
Which Way to Jesus .........................09
Prevent a Potential Graphics and Layout
Dinto Tom K T
Juvenile Delinquents Reformers ......11 Criminal”
Premodaya .......................................13 80% of the children of Printing
Sevasadan Printing Press
prisoners are potential Koramangala, Bengaluru
Bro Marcel Van.................................15
criminals unless somebody
Sr Helen Prejean CSJ ......................17 takes care of them. Prison Prison Ministry India
52, Thomas Layout
Asha Sadan, Noida ..........................19 Ministry India has begun
Sarjapur Road
a scheme to educate 1000 Carmelaram
Christmas Celebration
children of prisoners: Bangalore-560 035
in Odisha Jails ..................................20
Karnataka, India
Kindly contribute
PMI Pune Spreads
Rs. 5,000/- for the education 09447710488
Christmas Cheer ..............................22 9880022209
of a child.
Prisoners’ Children Educators ..........23 Email
BANK DETAILS:
prisonvoice123@gmail.com
PMI Ruby Jubilee .............................24 A/c Name : Prison Ministry India nationalpmi2015@gmail.com
Bank : South Indian Bank
Jingle Bells in Juvenile Jail ...............26 Branch : Sarjapur Road
A/C No : 0416053000001419 Website
Writing My Wrongs ...........................27
IFSC Code : SIBL0000518 www.prisonministryindia.org
PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021 5
Editor’s View
BLESSED NEW YEAR 2021
With immense gratitude and highest
appreciation to Sr Rosily SCC for her
valuable service as the chief editor of Prison Sr Amala DC
Voice let me begin with wishing all of you Chief Editor
a happy New Year 2021. Every end marks
peace. Though we don’t have permission
a new beginning though we are still under
to visit prisoners very often, we are able to
the threat of the invisible enemy covid19.
help them by taking care of their children’s
I don’t think we have, or this generation
education and many other projects launched
has experienced anything like this before.
by the initiative of Rev Fr Francis Kodiyan,
The year 2020 landed with this novel virus
PMI National Coordinator.
which wreaked havoc across the globe and
still continues its onslaught unabated. The When PMI Celebrates its Ruby Jubilee let
uncertainty looms large and we don’t know us be conscious that the purpose of Jesus’
how long or how far it will continue to keep incarnation was to bring good news to the
us in fear. It is not in resisting the situation, poor, to proclaim release to the captives
we will triumph over it, but in becoming and recovery of sight to the blind, to let
aware of it. Hence, how we deal with the the oppressed go free, and to proclaim the
situation is very important. How are we year of the Lord’s favor (Lk 4, 18-19). The
going to do it? We have, so far, resisted it goal and task of Prison Ministry India are
partially, complained about it, and also tried also the same, liberating and redeeming
to somewhat fit into this new scenario. Now prisoners. Let us intensify our redeeming
is the time to look ahead and see how we mission of the lost.
can redefine ourselves in this restricting
scenario. It’s almost like imprisonment It is relevant for us to remind ourselves of
where we do not have much freedom that the New Year resolutions proposed by the
we used to have before. We will have to be Holy Father Pope Francis: 1) Don’t gossip
more flexible in 2021 and beyond because 2) Finish your meals 3) Make time for others
unexpected calamities may happen. 4) Choose the “humbler” purchase 5) Meet
the poor in the flesh 6) Stop judging others
As we enter into the New Year, let us focus 7) Befriend those who disagree 8) Make
on how well our goodwill and genuine commitments, such as marriage 9) Make it
service will impact the entire world especially a habit to “ask the Lord” and 10) Be happy.
our brethren behind the bars. Let us resolve
to live a life of dedicated service that will I wish we change our direction and not
positively impact the world in general dates, change our commitments and not
and the incarcerated in particular. That’s the calendar, change our attitude and not
how we at PMI National Office started the actions; and bring about a change in our
visiting the prisons even during this time faith, force and focus and not the fruit. May
of pandemic by giving gifts, performing we live up to the promises we have made
cultural programmes and disseminating and may we create for us, our loved ones,
the Christmas message of love, joy and the people around us and above all the lost
sheep of Jesus the happiest moments in life.
6 PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021
PMI BURNING BUSH
SPIRITUAL BANQUET
Il Resveglio - The Reawakening
In preparation and commemoration of
the Ruby Jubilee, PMI convened an online
retreat from 13-19 September 2020 to Rev Dr Francis Kodiyan MCBS
reawaken her volunteers. The theme was National Coordinator & Secretary to CBCI
“Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and for Prison Ministry India
Christ will shine on you” (Eph 5:14). Many
retreat participants asked for the continuity and jacob – and that He is Yahweh “I am
of the spiritual experiences they had during who I am”. God is calling PMI volunteers as
the retreat. As a lasting fruit of the retreat He called Moses, to liberate the incarcerated.
PMI decided to have an online spiritual The PMI Burning Bush Spiritual Banquet
banquet every month in the evening of intends to set the hearts of PMI volunteers
every first Friday. During this Jubilee year, on fire, to understand the depth of their
PMI chalked out various programs like 40 call within the call and thus totally dedicate
Special Task forces, Incessant Intercessory themselves for the integral development of
Invocation for the Incarcerated, 40 houses prisoners and their children. “Come, I will
for the released and reformed prisoners, send you to Pharaoh to bring my people out
scholarships for 400 children of prisoners, of Egypt. I will be with you” (Ex 3, 10-12)
releasing 400 prisoners and so on. I invite all
Inaugural Banquet
of you to earnestly pray for the fruitfulness
of PMI Ruby Jubilee programs and to On Friday 2nd October 2020, the Burning
actively participate in the Burning Bush Bush PMI Spiritual Banquet was inaugurated
Spiritual Banquets. by Very Rev Fr Varghese Karippery, the
cofounder of Prison Ministry India. Mar
Burning Bush Spiritual Banquet
Jose Pulickal, the Bishop of Kanjirapally
The unburnt bush (Ex 3:4) on Mount spoke out of his experience as one of the
Horeb is an icon of theophany – the source pioneers of Jesus Fraternity at St Thomas
of God experience, a symbol of God’s Apostolic Seminary, Kottayam and out
communion with man; it’s an embodiment of his rich experience as the Director of
of divine revelation - God revealing his the rehabilitation center for released men
plan to man. It narrates the story of God’s prisoners at Snehashramam, Thrissur.
love for man and tells the tale of Moses’ Highlighting Jesus’ special mission for
vocation to liberate the people of God from the lost and the wounded he invited PMI
the Egyptian bondage. This is the holy place volunteers to express more tangibly their
where Moses was appointed and anointed compassion and affection towards brethren
by God to lead the people of God out of behind the bars. Mar Jose Pulickal who
Egypt and into Canaan, the land of milk and donated his ancestral house and property
honey; the place where God revealed His for the integral human development of
name that He is the God of Abraham, Isaac prisoners’ children inspired PMI volunteers
PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021 7
From National Coordinator’s Desk rosary on all the three days. God is the Good
to dedicate totally for the liberation and Shepherd who is always in search of the lost
redemption of prisoners and their children. sheep and when He finds it, He celebrates.
Fr Reji Koodapattu CMI and team led God alone has the blue print of our lives
the Eucharistic Adoration and praise and and as such God alone knows our beginning
worship. On 6th November 2020 Rev Fr and He alone knows our end.
Maverick, the Director Caritas Goa, led Burning Bush Prayer
the Burning Bush Spiritual banquet. He Lord our loving Father, we thank and
spoke on the ‘Restoration towards Eternal glorify you for the divine providence and
life’. Rev Fr Savio Fernandes Assistant heavenly protection of PMI volunteers
Director of Caritas Goa and his team lead all over India. Merciful Father, we entrust
the PMI volunteers into praise, worship the PMI Burning Bush Spiritual banquet –
and adoration. It was indeed a spirit filled preachers, participants, organizers, sessions,
banquet wherein everyone who participated arrangements and equipment into your safe
was enlightened and motivated to work for divine hands. Lord Jesus, you invited the
eternal life. apostles to come away with you to a lonely
Burning Bush Advent Retreat place to rest a while for their sanctification
There is a reason for closed doors, and empowerment. Bless us O Lord to be
unanswered prayers and blocked roads. the lamb of the world, to be the salt of the
If your plans don’t work out it is because earth, to be the light of the world, to be the
God has better plans for you. Our journey ransom for many, to be the stone rejected,
on this earth is full of surprises, difficulties, to be the body broken, and to be the blood
challenges, joys and sorrows, ups and downs. shed. Anoint us O Lord, with the power
To face our day-to-day challenges, it is very of the Holy Spirit and renew us to commit
important to keep ourselves in prayers. ourselves to search, serve and save the lost.
Just as food gives strength for our bodies, O Holy Spirit, fill us with your fruits, gifts
prayers provide us with the spiritual strength and charisms, let sinners be converted,
to face difficulties or challenges in our lives. the sick be healed, the consecrated be
Keeping this in mind PMI conducted a renewed, the faithful be strengthened and
three-day online Advent retreat from 4-6 souls in purgatory be liberated. Shower
December 2020 under the leadership of Rev your deliverance power on us and lead us
Fr Henry Falcao Director of the St Joseph to release, reform, rehabilitate, reintegrate
Vaz Spritual Renewal Retreat Center Old and redeem our brethren behind the bars.
Goa. Fr Xavier Braganza, PMI volunteer, O Blessed Mary Mother of Our Lord Jesus,
Panjim, Fr Saturnino Colaco and Fr Henry mediatrix of sinners, pray for the salvation
Falcao preached the retreat and conducted of the lost and for the reawakening of our
Eucharistic Adoration. The theme was Chairman, founders, coordinators and the
God’s Love. The retreat began with praise entire PMI family. The saints who suffered
and worship by Mr Magnus. Panjim prison and glorified the Lord in prison St John
ministry volunteers namely Mr Walli de the Baptist, St Paul, St Maximillian Kolbe,
Lima Fernandes, Mrs Jocelyn Rodrigues, venerable Van Thuan and all the saints
Mr Denzil Martins, Mr Michael Martins and and angels intercede for the anointing and
Mrs Goretti Martins lead the retreatants in sanctification of all the retreatants. We ask
this prayer through Christ our Lord, Amen.
8 PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021
Which Way to Jesus
On a cold Harmattan morning three palm
fruit farmers were warming themselves
by the fireside. Soon two of them were
engaged in a heated debate comparing their
religions to decide which one was the true
religion. Okoro, the oldest among them,
sat quietly listening to the debate. Suddenly
the two turned to him and asked, “Decide Fr Allam Sagar Manoj Kumar
for us, Okoro which religion is the right
one?” Okoro stroked his white beard and magi or the three wise men were nature
said thoughtfully, “Well, you know there worshippers, people who divined God’s will
are three ways to get from here to the oil by reading the movements of the stars and
mill. You can go right over the hill. That is other heavenly bodies, then we can see how
shorter but it is a steep climb. You can go the visit of the magi challenges some of our
around the hill on the right side. That is not popular beliefs.
too far, but the road is rough and full of
Like the palm fruit farmers, religious people
potholes. Or you can go around the hill on
of all persuasions tend to think that their
the left side. That is the longest way, but it is
religious tradition is the only way to God.
also the easiest.” He paused and then added,
This is what some of us hear when we hear
“But you know, when you get there, the mill
such words of Jesus as: “I am the way, and
man does not ask you how you came. All he
the truth, and the life. No one comes to the
asks is, ‘Man, how good is your fruit?’
Father except through me” (John 14:6). We
In the stories of Jesus’ birth, two special hastily conclude that the way of God equals
groups of people came to visit the new the way of our religious tradition. Yet the
born babe: the shepherds and the magi. The word of God cautions us against such a
church has no special feast to commemorate narrow interpretation. “For my thoughts
the visit of the shepherds but we have are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my
this special feast of Epiphany today to ways, says the Lord” (Isaiah 55:8). That is
celebrate the visit of the magi. Why is that? why we are fascinated with the story of the
It is because the visit of the magi is an eye- visit of the magi. It is a unique story that
opener. The shepherds learnt of the birth opens our eyes to the fact that God is not
of Jesus through a direct revelation from limited to any one religious tradition.
angels appearing in the midnight sky. This
Notice how people of different religious
is direct and supernatural revelation. Many
traditions came to know that the Son of
of us have no problem with that. The magi,
God was born. The shepherds who were
on the other hand, learnt of the birth of
regarded as unclean and could not take part
Jesus by observing a star. The star did not
in Temple worship without undergoing
say anything to them. They had to interpret
purification came to know through a direct
this natural sign to know what it meant
vision of angels. The magi knew through
and where it led. If we remember that the
a reading of the stars and King Herod’s
PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021 9
Which Way to Jesus
scribes came to know through searching
the scriptures. Visions, stars, scriptures
are different ways of arriving at the same Prison Life,
truth. Of course, this does not mean that A Great Leveller
any religious tradition is just as good as the Fr Stan Swamy SJ
other. Notice how Matthew indicates that
when the guiding star got to Jerusalem its
light failed and the magi had to consult the Inside the daunting prison grates
scriptures to direct them to Bethlehem. All belonings taken away
Over and above the natural light of the star But for the bare essentials
the magi still needed the supernatural light
of scripture to finally get to Jesus. ‘You’ comes first
Yet the crucial question in the story remains: ‘I’ comes after
Who actually got to find Jesus? Herod and his ‘We’ is the air one breathes
scribes who had the scriptures failed to find
Jesus but the magi who followed the natural Nothing is mine
light of the stars were able to find him.
Nothing is yours
Why? Because the Jewish authorities, even
though they possessed the shining truth of Everything is ours
revealed scriptures, did not follow it. They
did not walk in the light of the scriptures. No leftover food thrown away
The magi, on the other hand, who enjoyed All shared with the birds of the air
only a star light, followed its guidance. It is They fly in, have their fill and happily fly out
not the possession of the truth that matters,
it is how prepared we are to walk in the light Sorry to see so many young faces
of the truth that we possess. It is better to Asked them: “Way are you here”?
have the dim light of the stars and follow They told it all, not mincing words
it than to have the bright light of the Holy
Scriptures and neglect it.
From each as per capacity
As Christians we believe that our religion To each as per need
possesses the fullness of truth. But how Is waht socialism all about
does that benefit us if we do not walk in the
truth? Nature worshippers or non-believers Lo, this commonality is wrought by
who are sincerely committed to following
compuision
the dim light of natural reason may arrive
at Jesus before Christians who have the if only all humans would embrace it freely
exalted truths revealed by God but who and willingly
do not walk the walk of faith. This is the all would truly become childre of Mother
challenging truth we celebrate today in the Earth
story of the pagan wise men who seek and
find the Lord.
10 PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021Juvenile Delinquents
Reformers (JDR)
Introduction
Juvenile Delinquents Reformers is one
of the PMI Special Task Forces and PMI Sr Lini Sheeja MSC
volunteers join hands together in reforming
and redeeming these children of ours. The Why Juvenile Delinquency?
term ‘Children in Conflict with Law’ refers
to anyone less than 18 years of age who The root causes of Juvenile Delinquency
comes in contact with the Justice System are well documented and researched. They
as a result of being suspected or accused are poverty, school problems, economic
of committing an offence. The General problems, alcohol and drug abuse,
Assembly on 29 November 1985 adopted community atmosphere, getting acquainted
the United Nations’ Standard Minimum with bad company and ultimately falling
Rules for the Administration of Juvenile into bad habits, bad family atmosphere, lack
Justice, and for the first time the word of family support, substance abuse – home
“Juvenile” was coined. This change in life, substance abuse – personal, physical
terminology was then reflected in domestic abuse at home, lack of adult interaction,
law with the passing of the JJA 1986. The peer pressure – neighborhood influence,
Act was further amended in 2006 and 2011, low self-esteem and trauma, single parent
and was known as the Juvenile Justice Act families, separated families, frequent parents
2000. The Act was later amended in 2015 conflict, lack of trust and confidence
and is known as the Juvenile Justice Act among the parents, psychological problems
2015. in parents, sibling rivalry due to unequal
treatment between children.
Juvenile Justice Act 2015
The Crime Committed by a Juvenile
Under JJA 2015 there are two categories of
children, (1) Children in need of Care and The common crime committed by Juveniles
Protection, (2) Children in Conflict with is theft or larceny. Young or adult, may
Law. The Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, defines take to a wrong path to improve their
the legal framework in which juveniles can financial conditions. Teens become Juvenile
appear before a judge. Juveniles in conflict Delinquents due to lack of finances. When
with the law must be distinguished from they experience poor economic conditions,
children in need of care and protection. they start engaging in the wrong activities.
Offences covered under Juvenile Justice Act They may start selling drugs or steal things
2015- Petty Offences, Serious Offences and to improve their economic conditions. Some
Heinous Offences. others are Vandalism and graffiti charges,
PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021 11Juvenile Delinquents Reformers the noble qualities or they can be looked
shoplifting and other petty theft charges, down for being in Observational Homes
Simple assault (especially due to fighting for correctional behavior. On the one hand
incidents), underage drinking violations, due to poverty children are deprived of
joyriding a car, murder and rape. education and forced to work from a very
young age and shoulder responsibilities
Domestic Work and Hazards beyond their age and capacity. On the
Children are the priceless gift from God other hand children from well-to-do strata
and are the treasure of each family. The of the society have access to money and
family and the community have the primal opportunities and live in the lap of luxury
goal in shaping the personality of children. with nothing denied to them.
Sadly, many children are forced to work Give Roots, then Wings
from a young age. The hazards linked to
child domestic work are a matter of serious There are two things that we can give our
concern. Some of the most common risks children. One is roots and the other is
children face in domestic service includes: wings. Our children are taught to aim high.
long and tiring working days, use of toxic We teach our children to look up, but we
chemicals, carrying heavy loads, handling fail to teach our children to look down. We
dangerous items such as knives, axes, and have to give our children first roots and
hot pans, insufficient or inadequate food and then the wings. As children are physically
accommodation, humiliating or degrading fed, they also need to be fed emotionally,
treatment including physical and verbal psychologically, mentally, spiritually and
abuse, sexual abuse. These hazards need socially. Every child is a different kind of
to be seen in association with the denial of flower and all together they make this world
fundamental rights of the child. a beautiful garden.
Number of Juvenile Homes in India PMI Services for the Juveniles
There are a total of 815 Juvenile homes in PMI offers individual counseling, moral
India. They are overcrowded because of the class, English class, Computer class, life-
number of juveniles accused and they need skill training program, recreation, behavior
us. The crimes committed by juveniles show management programs, celebrations, follow-
an upward trend as reported by the National up and intervention with the family for the
Crime Record Bureau- 7 November 2016. Juveniles. Through the launching of many
Kolbe Homes for the prisoners’ children,
Juvenile – A Journey children from broken families, children in
Juvenile is a journey, a child can turn as extreme poverty or children of single parent
villain or a hero, empowered or suppressed. we can prevent Juvenile Delinquents.
A child can be looked up to by society for
12 PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021PREMODAYA, Bengaluru
Creating SPACE for Children
Introduction
Child Care Institutions are a platform where
children live, learn, practice and develop
capacities for participation in the society at
large. It is a home or abode wherein children
in need of care and protection live together, Sr Jerlin Joyce, SSAM
play, share ideas and concerns, have identity,
have discussions and dialogue in the process Creating Space for Children
of growing to maturity. Their right to
PMI rightly intervenes in the lives of children
protection, development and participation
of prisoners through their volunteers. The
is enhanced with greater attention. The
girl children are immediately brought to
United Nations Child Rights Convention
Premodaya for care and protection. These
(UNCRC) declared that children have
girl children are to be given utmost care
inalienable rights and it is the responsibility
in Premodaya as they are more vulnerable
of the State, Institutions and Communities
and are susceptible to abuse in their family-
to ensure. Premodaya, as a home for children
based neighbourhood. In Premodaya, prime
of prisoners is committed to ensuring lasting
importance is given to children by creating
development connected to child rights.
physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual
The Needs and Rights of Children space for expressions. While creating space
for children with adult participation, the
The needs of children are important. needs of children given timely and trendy
The basic needs pertaining to home care, attention taking into consideration of the
wholesome nutrition, quality education signs of the times.
and space for creative expressions are to
be made sure by the society. These needs Amble Physical Space
cannot be postponed for later stage as these
Children enjoy being around huge space.
children almost deprived of everything as
Premodaya is situated in a vast campus and
their parents are incarcerated. Premodaya
has a lot of child friendly space for children
realizes that any delay in addressing these
to run and play around. Sisters spent quality
needs of children is detrimental in the
time engaging in play activities. Premodaya
shaping of their future. Premodaya has
has a flower garden in which children spent
design of understanding the priorities of
time in watering and experimenting in
the needs of children and making creative
crafting on plants which make them joyful
efforts to address them meaningfully.
PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021 13PREMODAYA and events than reacting to them. The
sisters, teachers, volunteers and friends make
and creative. The study hall, dining hall, children learn from emotions on cognition,
dormitory and recreation areas are spaced feeling and action aspects. The emotional
out sufficiently well for children to be space provided to children helps them move
what they want to be doing their activities. on to emotional intelligence through dance,
These physical spaces are child friendly, music, linguistic calibre and interpersonal
safe and protective enough to move about intelligence.
comfortably. These physical amble spaces
basically make children feel comfortable, Intellectual and Spiritual Space
safe and happy thus ensuring fulfilling their Children need empathy and not sympathy.
need for safe environment. This increases Efforts are taken to provide regular positive
in children the spatial intelligence with the support to children to improve and build
ability to visualize objects from different on their intellectual calibre through regular
angles and space such as those of navigators assistance to study, group discussions, play
and engineers. The Christmas decorations way learning. Spiritual space is given to share
made by them were truly amazing with their feelings and wants through prayers,
creative visualization. group sharing and through moral stories.
Emotional Intelligence It is believed that every child is unique and
they can win over their temporal emotional
‘Emotions make us human, denying those instabilities with proper accompaniments
makes us beasts’- Victoria Klein. The of adults with educative presence.
children of prisoners go through a tough
emotional transition as they depart from Embellishing Child Rights
family members in a constrained manner. Premodaya aims to standardize the space
The negativity spilt on the stature of family for assuring child rights. Girl children in
members does impact them on the emotions Premodaya stay comfortable, assisted to
of guilt, embarrassment, envy and jealousy. grow intellectually and emotionally in a
Hence, Premodaya moves in a proactive balanced manner. Proactive measures are
manner to address emotional needs of taken by the PMI through Society of Sisters
children on love, self-acceptance and of St Anne-Madras (SSAM) to assure
self-realization with positively addressing quality space and time to children. Thus, the
to their needs. A counsellor is engaged loving ambience makes them to respond
to assist children to imbibe emotional proactively to multifaceted situations in life.
intelligence. Help children through mature Premodaya strongly believes that the needs
companionship, motivations to stay healthy. and rights of children cannot be postponed
Through group therapy and team building and are met with due child friendly S P A C
children are assisted to respond to situations E here and now.
14 PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021Bro Marcel Van,
Vietnam
yet, he desired to become a saint. This is
Holiness Made Simple how he expressed it: “In spite of my great
for Ordinary People desire to attain holiness, I was certain that
I would never achieve it, because to be a
Santhosh Ebroo saint, you have to fast, lash yourself with
a whip, wear a rock around your neck and
Joachim Nguyễn Tân Văn
little chains covered with spikes, a coarse
Joachim Nguyễn Tân Văn was born on horsehair shirt, endure the cold, the scabies,
March 15th 1928, in Ngam Giao, a village etc. My God, if it is like this, I give up... All
in North Vietnam. He received First Holy that is way too much for me.” Marcel Van
Communion at the age of 6, and began also experienced diabolical temptations that
formal schooling at the age of 7. it was presumptuous for him to want to be
a saint. Today, we see clearly that none of
Redemptorist Brother these penances are necessary for holiness.
At the age of 13, he entered the minor In October, Pope Francis beatified 15-year
seminary. Soon after, his formation was old Carlo Acutis who never engaged in any
interrupted yet again as the seminary was of these practices. However, in the 1940s,
taken over by Japanese soldiers. He then the Universal Calling to Holiness was not
moved to stay at a parish - dedicated to preached from every pulpit, nor was it part
the Little Flower - with Dominican friars of the consciousness of most ordinary
who had opened a minor seminary in the people. By the grace of God, Vatican II
parish. He was subsequently expelled when helped the Church rediscover this teaching
he became involved in an argument with the that had been a cornerstone of Apostolic
parish priest. Finally, at the age of 16, he was preaching but that had gradually become
admitted to the Redemptorist monastery in obscured from view. By the grace of God,
Hanoi. Here, he professed his vows, and too, today, the Church proclaims with greater
lived and died as a Redemptorist brother - and renewed vigour, intensity, insistence, and
Bro. Marcel Van. During this time, St. Thérèse clarity that you and I are called to be saints in
revealed to him that becoming a priest was the ordinary, commonplace, and humdrum
not God’s Will for him. Instead, was called activities and events of each day - which is
to become a “hidden apostle of Love” and a what St. Thérèse’s Little Way is all about.
“heart for priests” - as a professed brother. Discovering St. Thérèse of Lisieux made
St Thérèse of Lisieux Marcel Van weep tears of joy as he had found
a person whose pilgrimage to holiness was
It was during his time in the parish that something he could imitate. He expressed it
he had discovered St Thérèse of Lisieux’s in this way: “I understood then that God is
autobiography - The Story of a Soul. Marcel Love... Like St Thérèse, I can sanctify myself
Van was convinced he had no capacity for through all my little acts... A smile, a word
strenuous penances and mortification. And or a look, provided that everything is done
PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021 15BRO MARCEL VAN was jailed for a year and subjected to all sorts
of psychological torture. A year later, he was
in love. What happiness!.... From now on, produced in court and sentenced to fifteen
sanctity will no longer frighten me....my tears years imprisonment in a “re-education”
were flowing like an inexhaustible spring.” camp. Both in jail and in the various re-
“I had received therefore, that afternoon, a education camps he was sent to, he was a
source of grace and happiness. “The Story source of love, kindness, consolation, and
of a Soul” had become my dearest friend, comfort for his fellow prisoners. No amount
and followed me everywhere and I did not of suffering could make him renounce his
cease reading or rereading it, without ever vocation to love.
getting weary of it. There was nothing in Love Bomb
this volume which did not conform to my
thoughts, and what pleased me even more in In PMI terms, he had become a “love bomb”.
the course of my reading was to see clearly To his sister, he wrote, “Nothing can take
the spiritual life of Thérèse was identical to the weapon of love from me. No affliction
mine. Her thoughts, even her yes or no were is capable of removing the kind smile that
in harmony with my own thoughts, and the I let appear on my thin face. And who is
little events of my life. Truly, never in my life the caress of my smile for, if not for Jesus,
have I met a book which was so well adapted the Beloved? I am the victim of Love and
to my thinking and feelings as is “The Story Love is all my happiness, an indestructible
of a Soul”. I can confess that the story of happiness.” At another time he wrote, “I
Thérèse’s soul is the story of my soul....” am very busy, like a little parish priest. Apart
from the hours of forced labour, I must
Incarceration constantly welcome the people who come
Bro. Marcel Van was sent by his Superiors one after the other looking for comfort from
from Hanoi to Saigon - which would me... God Himself has made known to me I
become part of South Vietnam. In July am doing His will here. Many times, I have
1954, North Vietnam was handed over to asked of Him the favour of dying in this
the Communists. Some members of the camp, but every time, He has answered me:
Redemptorist monastery stayed behind to “I am ready to follow your will as you always
look after the Catholics who had stayed follow Mine, but there are souls that still need
back in Hanoi instead of fleeing to South you.” In 1957, he attempted to escape to find
Vietnam. Marcel Van requested and was Consecrated hosts to meet the needs of his
given permission to go and join them. He fellow prisoners. He was caught, beaten, and
wrote that he was going to Hanoi for this locked up. He lived in solitary confinement
reason: “I am going there so that there might for much of the rest of his life. On July
be someone who loves God in the midst of 10th 1959, sick, exhausted, and without any
the Communists.” human comfort, Bro. Marcel Van died. His
Via Crucis had come to an end. God had
Not long after his arrival in Hanoi, on May welcomed this little soul back to Himself. He
7th 1955, Bro. Marcel Van was arrested. He was only 31.
16 PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021Sr Helen Prejean CSJ
A Passionate Nun for Death
Row Prisoners
Introduction
Sr Helen Prejean CSJ (81 years old) was born Sr Lini Sheeja MSC
on April 21, 1939 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana,
United States is a Roman Catholic religious to be his spiritual adviser in the years leading
sister, a member of the Congregation of up to his execution. Two years later, when
St Joseph based in New Orleans, and a Patrick Sonnier was put to death in the
leading American advocate for the abolition electric chair, Sr Helen was there to witness
of the death penalty. After studies in the his execution. In the following months,
USA and Canada, she spent the subsequent she became spiritual advisor to another
years teaching in high school, and serving death row inmate, Robert Lee Willie, who
as the Religious Education Director at St was to meet the same fate as Sonnier. The
Frances Cabrini Parish in New Orleans and experience gave Prejean a greater insight
the Formation Director for her religious into the process involved in executions,
community. Prejean founded the group for the convict, families, and others in the
SURVIVE to help families of victims of prison, and she began speaking out against
murder and related crimes. She served as capital punishment. Sr Prejean has since
the National Chairperson of the National then ministered to other inmates on death
Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty row and witnessed several more executions.
from 1993 to 1995. She helped establish She served as National Chairperson of the
The Moratorium Campaign, seeking an end National Coalition to Abolish the Death
to executions and conducting education on Penalty from 1993 to 1995.
the death penalty. Dead Man Walking
Call within a Call After witnessing these executions, Sister
Sr Prejean began her career as a religious Helen realized that this lethal ritual would
education teacher but soon felt called to remain unchallenged unless its secrecy was
serve the poor and the disenfranchised. A stripped away, and so she sat down and wrote
request to become a pen-pal to Elmo Patrick a book, Dead Man Walking: An Eyewitness
Sonnier, a Louisiana death row inmate, in Account of the Death Penalty in the United
1981 marked the beginning of her death States. Dead Man Walking hit the shelves
row ministry and her campaign against the when national support for the death penalty
death penalty. Elmo Patrick Sonnier, was was over 80% and, in Sister Helen’s native
given death penalty for the murder of two Louisiana, closer to 90%. The book ignited
teenagers; held on death row in the Louisiana a national debate on capital punishment
State Penitentiary, known as Angola. Sr and it inspired an Academy Award winning
Prejean visited Sonnier in prison and agreed movie, a play and an opera.
PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021 17SR HELEN PREJEAN CSJ is a violation of those rights and a denial of
Books & Awards human dignity. They strongly believe that
capital punishment is never an appropriate
Sister Helen’s second book, The Death solution for any crime and that the death
of Innocents: An Eyewitness Account of penalty causes harm to all those affected
Wrongful Executions, was published in by it, including victims’ families and prison
2004; and her third book, River of Fire: officers as well as the condemned and their
My Spiritual Journey, in 2019. In December families.
2010, Prejean donated all of her archival
papers to DePaul University. In 1996, she A Nun of Justice and Mercy
was awarded the Laetare Medal by the Over the decades, Sister Helen has made
University of Notre Dame, the oldest personal approaches to two Popes, John
and most prestigious award for American Paul II and Pope Francis, urging them to
Catholics. In 1998, Prejean was given the establish the Catholic Church’s position
Pacem in Terris Award, named after a 1963 as unequivocally opposed to capital
encyclical letter by Pope John XXIII that punishment under any circumstances. After
calls on all people of good will to secure Sr Helen’s urging, under John Paul II the
peace among all nations. Pacem in terris is catechism was revised to strengthen the
Latin for “Peace on Earth.” church’s opposition to executions, although
Ministry Against the Death Penalty it allowed for a very few exceptions.
(MADP) Not long after meeting with Sr Helen in
August of 2018, Pope Francis announced
The MADP is a non-profit organization new language of the Catholic Catechism
encompassing the work of Sister Helen which declares that the death penalty is
and her office in New Orleans, the inadmissible because it is an attack on the
Catholic Mobilizing Network, the Dead inviolability and dignity of the person, with
Man Walking School Theatre Project no exceptions.
and a variety of special projects based at
DePaul University in Chicago. The MADP Conclusion
fosters creative, reflective and educational On behalf of Most Rev Allwyn D’Silva,
programs that awaken hearts and minds, PMI Chairman, Rev Dr Francis Kodiyan
inspire social change, and strengthen our MCBS, PMI National Coordinator and all
democracy’s commitment to human rights the Prison Ministry India volunteers across
and this mission is founded on a set of core the country, I congratulate and appreciate
values and beliefs: The members are moved one of the courageous nuns, Sr Helen
by the compassion of Jesus and his strong Prejean CSJ for her brave and dedicated
expression of mercy and justice to stand witness to save human lives by tirelessly
by those who are outcasts in our society. working to abolish death penalty and we do
They believe in the dignity and rights of all join hands with her in the mission of saving
persons and recognize that government- human lives.
sanctioned killing and the practice of torture
18 PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021Asha Sadan, Noida
Home for Prisoners’ Girl
Children
Franciscan Clarist Sisters (FCC)
Sr Celine FCC
Asha Sadan founded on 3rd May 1997 is
a home for prisoners’ girl children under and Meenakshi passed out class 12 with
Noida Assisi Sekchik Sanstha. The regular flying colours scoring 96% in English and
visits of Sr Celine and Sr Peter to Tihar Jail political science and bagged Gold medals
brought an insight to have an institution for for +2 CBSE. This year Khushboo scored
the children who live with their mothers in 92%. They all joined Delhi University
jail. Asha Sadan receives children through for Higher education. Geetha started her
India Vision Foundation NGO founded by nursing course at St Anne’s Nursing College,
Dr Kiran Bedi IPS. They do meet educational Vijayawada. Many of our ex-students are
expenses of children and take them for working in corporate sectors in India and
regular child-parents meeting in different abroad.
jails every trimonthly or every quarter.
Visit to Tihar Jail
They conduct counselling and psychology
sessions for these girls. Now due to some On 14th December 2019 our children went
intervention or objections from the part of to Tihar jail for Christmas program. They
Government they withdrew their support. danced and enacted Christmas play on
behalf of Prison Ministry India. Rev Dr
Asha Sadan
Francis Kodiyan MCBS, the PMI National
At present Asha Sadan has 21 children Coordinator, who was the Chief Guest,
studying in different classes from KG to class delivered an inspiring Christmas message.
XII. They study in Assisi convent school in
Gratitude
the same compound. In 2019 Asha Sadan
celebrated the silver jubilee year, conducted We have two sisters and one kitchen maid
programs and more than 400 children were to look after their needs. We gratefully
present for the same. Now in this Covid19 remember the hands of our beloved sisters
pandemic situation we sent some of the who take keen interest in molding and
children to their homes and 14 are with us. transforming them. God does wonders
through different people. He allows them
Excellence
to be generous so that the poor may fill
It is with pride and pleasure that I inform their stomach. FCC superiors offer timely
you about the excellence of our children guidance and support and provide various
in the curricular and cocurricular activities opportunities for their good education. We
conducted in the school. Last year Tabassum too thank the parents for their cooperation
and support in the growth of children.
PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021 19Christmas Celebrations in
Odisha Jails
Every year, around Christmas time we were
sure of receiving few phone calls from the
prisoners, ‘When is the Christmas Mass?
Sr Shanti Pulickal SCC
Will bishop be coming? What are the songs
to be selected’ and so on. But this year they restrictions. Some were in tears as their
were silent as everything was uncertain. bail applications were not sanctioned even
There was delay in getting the necessary after paying huge amount of money to the
permission but through prayer, fasting lawyers.
and repeated phone calls by Sr Shanti we
were able to have the Christmas Mass and They were happy to receive our Christmas
celebration at Berhampur Circle Jail. There gifts, a sign that we love and care for them.
are around 70 Christians among the 800 St Joseph’s school and Holy Cross Provincial
male prisoners and we had been arranging sponsored snacks for all the 900 inmates
Mass, Confession and Counselling for them and Christmas gifts for all the jail officials.
on different occasions. But we had not We handed them over to the Superintend
been to the jail since March due to Covid19 to distribute later. Every year, at Christmas
regulations and now we were happy to get and on different occasions the bishop of
this opportunity. Most of the prisoners Berhampur, Sarat Chandra Nayak made it
were depressed with no visits either from us his priority to visit and offer Mass for his
or from their family members. lost sheep in the jail. But this year due to the
uncertainty about the celebration he could
The mood of the prisoners was reflected not include it in his programme. But he
in the celebration: there was no crib, no sponsored sumptuous Christmas lunch for
decorations and no excitement. The two all the Christian prisoners. All appreciated
seminarians in our group were musicians his generosity.
and they helped in creating a happy, heavenly
atmosphere all around. Fr Jusman offered St Vincent school sponsored saris for all the
Mass and conveyed the Christmas message 25 female prisoners and dresses for the small
of hope in the midst of hopelessness, fear children below 6yrs, remaining with them.
and anxiety. The prisoners had prepared Since the number was small we distributed
the full liturgy. Some of them are excellent them personally. Remaining in limited space
singers. The brothers played the Casio and and with no one to visit them, they were
tabla. After the Service the prisoners flocked more depressed than the male prisoners.
around us. Some of them were there for Our visit, love and care brought real joy
years and so they were very familiar with on their faces. All appreciated the gifts
us. They were worried about their families. and more particularly the love expressed
We promised them our prayers. It was not through the gifts. The children were a bit
possible for us to visit them due to the travel scared on seeing us but felt happy to get the
20 PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021new dress. It was time for us to leave the jail. ODISHA JAILS
We met the Superintend and other officials
books including the Bible and Mahabharata
to thank them for making all necessary
sponsored by the Ursuline sisters of Pune
arrangements to have this privilege of
Province. The Superintend appreciated this
meeting the prisoners, conducting the
gesture as reading the Scriptures and other
Christmas services and bringing new life
motivational books would help in creating
and hope to them.
positive attitudes among the prisoners.
As we were getting ready to leave we were
Their group succeeded in extending the
surprised to see 16 women sitting on the
Christmas celebration in the Naribandi
floor there. The Jailor said that they were
Niketan Jail with 22 women prisoners. Some
arrested for POCSO offence about a minor
of them engage themselves in small income
girl. All of them were from the same village.
generating activities. The PMI volunteers
We were sad but could not do anything at
tried to share with them the joy of Christmas
that time. POCSO offences are serious and
through songs and distribution of small
often non bailable. We thought of their
gifts. The women felt relaxed and started
families and the sorrow they would be going
dancing spontaneously. Fr Timothy Pinto
through. We left the jail after spending about
gave the Christmas message of peace, joy,
2 hours. We know that our services are very
love and hope. The volunteers conducted
little; a drop in an ocean but the ocean will
a small prayer service and prayed for all of
be richer with this drop. We were happy that
them. The women expressed their thanks
we could bring some joy and relief to our
for thinking of them and bringing a ray of
sisters and brothers behind bars
hope in their lives.
Jharsuguda Sub Jail
Gunupur Jail in Rayagoda Diocese
There is a revival in prison ministry at
Fr Ranjan OCD and his group were
Jharsuguda in Sambalpur diocese due to
happy that they could celebrate Christmas
the concerted efforts of Sr Mercyan SU.
in a small way in Gunupur sub jail. The
There were no Catholic prisoners but the
Superintend expressed his inability to allow
PMI volunteers were happy to announce
them into the jail and meet the prisoners or
the good news of the birth of the Saviour
have any programme as he was advised to
through meaningful Christmas celebration.
be careful about the Covid19 regulations.
Some Christmas decorations they had The volunteers had taken small gifts of
carried and few Christmas songs helped toilet articles for all the prisoners. The
in creating an atmosphere of celebration Superintend promised to hand them over
and joy. The Christmas message was to the prisoners and speak to them about
given by Fr Christopher, the parish priest. Christmas. He and the other officials were
There were around 350 inmates. All were highly appreciative of the services of PMI
given small gifts mainly for their daily use. and expressed their inability to help them.
Every gift is precious for the prisoners The volunteers sang few Christmas carols
because it carries the message that the for the staff and hoped that the prisoners
prison ministry members are aware of would hear it from inside and experience
their sufferings and that they care for them. the peace, joy and salvation that Jesus came
They donated a library cupboard with 160 to bring.
PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021 21volunteers were amazed to learn that some
of the inmates held post graduate degrees
but were driven to a life of crime due to
PMI Pune Spreads their extenuating circumstances. “This will
always be a memorable Christmas for me
Christmas Cheer experiencing the warmth and love of these
brothers and sisters” said a tearful Santosh
Anthony Jacob (name changed) who holds an MBA degree.
The PMI team also handed over some Covid
Christmas came quietly upon us in this Protection equipment like liquid sanitisers,
Covid 19 pandemic year but PMI Pune was hand wash, face masks and gloves.
all geared to “run with torches” and bring
Christ’s light to our brothers and sisters On the 22nd of December, Cecilia School
behind bars. Our Christmas run began with of Music in coordination with the PMI
winter warmth for the seniors over 60 years Pune volunteers organised a visit to the
at the Women’s Central Jail. As the mercury Boys Observation Home (for boys 18 years
started to dip in Pune, a benevolent PMI of age). The Home’s officials were eagerly
volunteer was quick to respond to the waiting for a small relaxation of restrictions
authorities’ appeal for blankets and on 16th so that PMI Pune could visit and bring
of December PMI Pune handed over 35 Christmas cheer and light into the lives of
warm blankets to the senior women in jail. the young boys. Sr Marina Gulati and her
team of cheerful volunteers brought joy to
On 18th December, the Good Shepherd the boys with their melodious singing and
Parish Unit of PMI supported by their Parish exciting games. Their spirits dampened by
Youth and other PMI Pune volunteers, the pandemic restrictions were uplifted and
spearheaded a visit to the Beggars’ Home. delighted with their joyful visitors. Fr Wilfred
It was a happy moment indeed as Fr Wilfred Fernandes addressed the boys encouraging
Fernandes, the Director of PMI Pune, them with the message that we can all do
launched the program with an inspiring the good in our own places, emphasising
Christmas message for all present. Santa that Christmas is a feast of peace.
and his joyful elves then took over singing
Christmas carols, playing games and dancing The visit concluded with distribution of
with the incarcerated. prizes and snacks. A carrom board was
also donated for the boys’ recreation. “It
As visits to these jails are limited, a skin feels so nice to have a visitor after so long.
camp was also arranged at the same time. And we got some prizes too. We are feeling
Dr Jennifer Kolte, Skin Specialist, gently happy.” remarked Jay (name changed) who
examined those with ailments, providing the has been in the Observation Home for the
necessary treatments and medications. The past 2 years. A memorable Christmas indeed
joyful evening ended with a distribution of as our torches have lit up the lives of our
snacks and a warm blanket. During a heart volunteers and those we served!
rending sing-song and sharing session, our
22 PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021Prisoners’ Children
Educators (PCE)
The first online meet of Prisoners’ Children
Educators, one of the PMI Special task
Forces of Prison Ministry India (PMI) was
held on 09 January 2021 through Google Asha Sebastian
Meet. Sr Amala DC, PMI National Secretary
invoked blessings of God. Dr Francis launched in commemoration of PMI Ruby
Kodiyan MCBS, PMI National Coordinator Jubilee to educate 400 children of prisoners.
welcomed the members of PCE and The current strength of the task force is
thanked each one individually for their just 40; more members would be beneficial
willingness and generosity to be part of this in order to reach more children. The
group for a noble cause. He stated that if we members can schedule a weekly/monthly
do not take care of these children today, we visit to children’s homes. We may segregate
will see them behind bars tomorrow. The the kids age wise and help them move in a
members introduced themselves as they are structured manner. It was also suggested
from different states joining hands for the to organize various talks, cultural activities,
sake of vulnerable children. Sr Lini Sheeja music classes, sports activities etc. for the
MSC, former PMI National Secretary gave well-being of children in our centers. It was
an introductory presentation on PMI and suggested to add caretakers of children’s
she took them through four basic principles, home to the group so that we may get a
which Prison Ministry India holds closer to better picture about the needs of the kids.
its mission. As she ended her presentation
with the 4th principle; ‘begging our lifestyle’ Sr Lini MSC in her concluding remarks said
she said, we beg to make them kings and that each member can adopt a child and
queens. Let us care and carry the burdens of take care of their financial, educational,
our brethren behind bars and their children. emotional, psychological and spiritual
If you and I don’t care who else will do? needs. They can call the child once a month
They are our brothers, sisters and children. and speak to them; all those who are nearby
The members elected Mr Sanjay Antony as can make a visit and spend quality time with
the President and Ms Asha Sebastian as the the child which will make the child to feel
Secretary for PCE task force. that one is wanted and cared. Members were
happy with it and we will proceed with the
An open discussion on the activities of task same by assigning each child a caretaker.
force was followed. Each member gave their Also, we can meet frequently and evaluate
suggestions for PCE. Fr Francis invited the the activities hereafter. Fr Rajendra Kumar,
members to bring in more volunteers to PMI interim secretary concluded the
reach the goal as this Special Task Force is meeting with prayer at 5 PM.
PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021 23PMI Ruby Jubilee:
Report
A celebration of 40th Anniversary of
Prison Ministry India is indeed a blessing
for the entire PMI family. PMI entered into Sr Amala DC
its glorious 40th year on 8th December and
9th December marked a memorable day prisoners. The home is named after Francis
with the twin celebration of blessing and Xavier Cardinal Van Thuan, who underwent
inauguration of RRDC Chapel and building 13 years of solitary confinement in Vietnam
by His Grace Most Rev Peter Machado, prison. After his release, he was appointed
Archbishop of Bengaluru. the Head of the dicastery in Vatican for
Ruby Jubilee Eucharistic Celebration Justice, Peace and Development; he has
already reached the stage of venerable in the
The Holy Eucharist was presided over by His canonization process. Fr Francis mentioned
Grace Most Rev Peter Machado, Archbishop gratefully 39 years of God’s blessings which
of Bengaluru and the concelebrants were had begun on 8th December, 1981 and still
Rev Fr Francis Kodiyan MCBS, PMI continues to this day.
National Coordinator, Rev Fr Sebastian
Thekkanath, former PMI coordinator, PMI Ruby Jubilee Inauguration
Fr. Rajendran, Interim National Secretary Ms Ashrita Mithun and Marjorie Gracian
among other priests, religious and laity. Correa PMI volunteers invited the Chief
RRDC Guest to the stage for the program stating
that 9th December 2020 will go down in
In his introduction, Fr Francis Kodiyan the history of PMI to denote a remarkable
highlighted the purpose and importance achievement of the PMI family. Rev Fr
of RRDC Chapel which is mainly used for Benny, the Assistant National Coordinator,
incessant intercessory prayer for the renewal, gave an introduction as to how this Prison
rehabilitation, reintegration and redemption Ministry India saw the light of the day by
of prisoners all over the world. RRDC - two seminarians at St Thomas Apostolic
Reformative Research and Documentation seminary, Vadavathoor in Kerala on 8th
Centre - building is used to train the December, during a casual conversation that
PMI volunteers and it also functions as a led them to close friendship; their friendship
documentation Centre. was later strengthened by the Eucharistic
Adoration at Malankara chapel and bi-weekly
Van Thuan Home visit to the peripheries of Kottayam as well.
They initiated a prayer group and regular
RRDC has a rehabilitation center named visits to Kottayam Prison, which paved the
Van Thuan Home for released men way for organizing an all-Kerala pilgrimage.
24 PRISON VOICE : JANUARY -2021You can also read
