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Restorative Justice Week


Last modified 2007-11-13 03:38

Restorative Justice Week began in 1975 in England. Known then as Prisoner's Sunday, its purpose was to remind the public of the incarcerated men and women in that country. The day of remembrance was subsequently adopted in Canada and several other Commonwealth nations. The commemoration extended to a week in 1995, and a year later was renamed Restorative Justice Week to reflect growing concern for victims and communities, as well as prisoners. It is generally observed during the third week of November

With the creation of the Restorative Justice Bible Studies in 2002, several PF national ministries began observances of the International Restorative Justice Week. These include

  • PF Argentina used the studies in several prisons with volunteers, community members, and inmates.
  • PF Bolivia's Oruro branch used the materials in community awareness raising events. These included
    • a meeting at the Norman H Babb Baptist Church with special a special emphasis on youth.  Invitations were sent to all the evangelical churches and others.
    • a meeting with the University Christian Community. This event was promoted by distributing flyers on the University campus.
    • Carcel de San Pedro with attendance of authorities that run prisons in Oruro.
  • PF Trinidad and Tobago reported an elaborate RJ Week observance with serveral public events, media interviews, and in prison activities. More

Ideas for Observing Restorative Justice Week

Restorative Justice Week is an excellent way to promote the work of Prison Fellowship and the advantages of restorative justice. Here are some ideas for observing the week:

1. Invite board members, staff, volunteers, or prisoners to do the five studies and organize a group discussion at the end of the week

2. Provide information about Prison Fellowship and restorative justice at local churches

3. Schedule interviews on local radio and television stations

4. Provide information on Prison Fellowship and restorative justice for criminal justice officials or other government representatives

5. Find other organizations interested in observing Restorative Justice Week and make plans for joint activities

Ideas for Using the Restorative Justice Bible Studies

1. daily devotional

2. training with staff, volunteers, or board members

3. Bible study in prison

4. study/information session with local churches, student groups, or Christian professionals

5. study/information sessions for Christian prison personnel and justice officials

Justice Fellowship of Prison Fellowship Ministries USA has produced resources specifically for Church leaders.

Correctional Services of Canada has developed resources for Restorative Justice Week.  Information in French is also available.