A JOURNEY THROUGH THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE MINEFIELD 

Sponsored by the Diocese of Joliet Peace & Justice Ministry

Recent developments have exposed the dysfunction of the criminal justice system surrounding the death penalty. However, even more needs fixing in the criminal justice system including support of victims of violence and their families, the conviction process, imprisonment of a significant number of innocent people, the treatment of prisoners, lack of rehabilitation in the prisons, immigrant detainees, and concern for the families of the incarcerated. Last year prison ministers from Kairos Outside, Companions Journeying Together, and Will County Jail together with our office designed a most “eye-opening” experience.  Speakers included a former warden, a member of Murder Victims Families for Reconciliation, a former prisoner exonerated after years on death row and his wife, a grandmother raising her son’s child because of his incarceration, and a formerly incarcerated person shared their personal stories.  The level of compassion and solidarity shared was very deep.  Reviews were outstanding. 

This year, there will be three offerings of “A Journey Through the Criminal Justice Minefield.”  The first one will take place on Saturday, November 6, 2004 at the Lisieux Center in Kankakee 60901.  The second event will be on Saturday, February 5, 2005 at St. Daniel the Prophet, 101W. Loop Rd., in Wheaton 60187.  The third is scheduled for Saturday, April 2, 2005, at St. Charles Pastoral Center, 402 S. Independence Blvd. in Romeoville 60446.  Presentations begin at 9:30am and finish at 3:30pm.  The program is open to JustFAITH participants and all who are interested in learning more about the impact of the Illinois Criminal Justice System on victims, perpetrators, and their children and family members.  

A $15 donation is asked to assist with the honorariums given to speakers and cost of lunch.  Please e-mail Joyce Ruhaak at joyceru@dioceseofjoliet.org  or phone her at 815-834-4036 with any questions.

Please download a reservation form and a printable flier.

This event is made possible in part by the Catholic Campaign for Human Development Education Fund.