Prisons Week is a Christian initiative to pray for, and raise awareness of, the needs of prisoners and their families, victims of crime, prison staff and all those who care. The week can also be used by other faith communities and secular groups as a time to highlight criminal justice concerns.
What?
Prisons Week is usually the third week of November. Some use the title 'Prisoners' Sunday' which is the Sunday at the beginning of the week. A theme is chosen each year for Prisons Week; in 2004 it was 'Justice that Restores' and in 2005 it is 'The least of these'. Church congregations and other faith groups are encouraged to focus upon criminal justice issues, either within a service of worship, at a weekday meeting with an invited speaker, in discussion groups, or by making literature available.
Who?
Volunteers in local faith communities who have a concern for criminal justice can get Prisons Week on the local agenda, by bringing it to the attention of the priest or minister, or the leadership of the particular group. Volunteers may offer to speak, to arrange a forum for discussion, to write an article for a local magazine, or simply to obtain resources for others to use.
How?
The Prisons Week committee produces leaflets, cards or posters each year. There is no fixed charge but a donation of £1 for ten cards or leaflets is suggested. (See Addresses).
