Holy Father Pope Francis had sent a video message by addressing the inmates taking part in the prison’s university studies program, which he marked as one of many programs that provide a space for work, culture, progress and are a sign of humanity. His Holiness conveyed the significance of punishments without torture and stressed that punishments can be fruitful only if the inmates are helped to look forward to their future with hope.
As reported by Catholic News Service, Holy Father Pope Francis remarked that “Although prisoners must pay a price for their crimes, incarceration must not be used as a method of torture but rather an opportunity to become contributing members of society.” Further, His Holiness added, “Let us not forget that for punishment to be fruitful, it must have a horizon of hope, otherwise it remains closed in itself and is just an instrument of torture; it isn’t fruitful.”
His Holiness expressed his gratitude to the prison administration officials for allowing the programs as well as the inmates in charge of the student center – Marcelino, Guille and Edo.
Source: www.catholicnews.com
