Many countries participate in the observance of restorative justice week, but the Correctional Services Canada (CSC), through the Restorative Justice and Dispute Resolution Branch, has provided strong leadership each year. Each year, the branch creates a resource kit, which includes basic information on restorative justice principles, stories from the field, and research. The Chaplaincy Branch of CSC also prepares a multi-faith spiritual resource kit. The theme for 2003 is “Pathways to a Strengthened Community’. Many helpful materials are available online at http://www.csc-scc.gc.ca/text/forum/restore2003/home_e.shtml. 

This year, the PFI Centre for Justice and Reconciliation has joined the observance of restorative justice by preparing a 5-part study course entitled Philemon: A Case Study in Peacemaking. It explores issues relating to victims, offenders and the impact of crime by reflecting on Paul’s short letter on behalf of the ex-offender Onesimus. This study, suitable for individual reflection and for group discussion, will be used by Prison Fellowship national affiliates to gain a deeper understanding of restorative justice. The materials are available in English, Spanish, French, and Russian.

RJOnline will direct readers to additional materials for observance of Restorative Justice Week as we become aware of them.

 

October 2003