When a crime is committed, we learn that community is broken, and there is pain...For those doing or experiencing harm, there is a sense of separation, of being disconnected from the rest of community. We will need a restorative, healing justice. 

• Crime wounds people. These wounds, and people's dignity, matter to God, and God's people.

• Crime creates a need for many to bring their hurt, hatred, rage and fears before God. Liturgy and sacred rituals can help people do that.

• Crime, and fear of crime, mean people get disconnected and live less than full lives. But the glory of God is man and woman fully alive!

• Crime violates God's sense of stewardship, our call to take care of all creation, including people.

• Crime is about loss of peace and the need for peace-making, breaking the culture and cycle of violence.

• Crime shouts out for social justice: making things right and equal (e.g. questioning the human and dollar resources devoted to the prison industry rather than human services; the disproportionate number of minorities in prison).

• Crime calls those who have done harm to make radical life changes, still knowing that God's love for them is unconditional.

• Crime calls out for responses that help build healthy communities. Religious and faith groups have a role to play in teaching and affirming ethical standards that help to do this.

(An excerpt from Justice for the Soul, Church Council's reflection sheet on restorative justice)

 

"Is Crime a Faith Issue?" is originally found on the Church Council on Justice and Corrections Website. Used here with permission.