The first Pact supporters’ Mass was celebrated by Bishop Paul McAleenan in the chapel at HMP Wormwood Scrubs. Concelebrating were Fr Dominic Robinson and Fr Chima Ibekwe, Catholic chaplain at the prison.
Governor Amy Frost welcomed the group, explaining how much she valued being able to invite people inside to see the good work the prison staff strive to do.
One of the prisoners read from St Paul’s Letter to the Romans: ‘Nothing can come between us and the love of Christ.’ The bidding prayers asked, ‘God of mercy, may your love overcome struggle and heartache and bring new life.’
Theresa Alessandro spoke to the congregation about Pact’s CEO Andy Keen-Downs’ recent audience with Pope Francis and showed them the image of Mary, Untier of Knots which Pope Francis blessed for all those in prison in England & Wales. She explained to the men that they were the first of many in prison with whom the image and Pope Francis’ blessing will be shared. Echoing Bishop Paul’s homily, she assured the men that Pope Francis cares about what happens to them just as Jesus himself does.
After Mass the men had an opportunity to touch the image and each make their own quiet prayer.
Holding an event inside the prison is always challenging. It took quite some time to get all the guests through security. It gave guests an opportunity to experience what visiting families can go through, sometimes after having already made a long journey to get to the prison.
Fifteen men were originally expected to join the Mass, but in fact only four were able to attend due to last-minute issues on the day. This, too, reflects the experience of families who, intending to make a much-awaited visit, can be disappointed upon arrival at the prison.
For some in society, and indeed in parish communities, there is little understanding of what life is like for those in prison and for their children and families. Being involved in supporting people affected by the criminal justice system can be isolating at times, but it also provides insight and develops empathy for the plight of those affected.
Pact (Prison Advice & Care Trust) is a Catholic charity that supports prisoners, people with convictions, and their children and families. The provide caring and life changing services at every stage of the criminal justice process: in court, in prison, on release, and in the community.
For more information about Pact and how to get involved, please visit their website.
Photo: courtesy of Pact
