Restorative Justice Workshop stream at SURRENDER:10

We’re really pleased to be able to present a Restorative Justice workshop stream at SURRENDER:10 this year. This unique workshop stream is hosted by leading ministries and organisations working within the criminal justice and prisons system; Prison Fellowship, Bridge of Hope, Prisoner Aftercare Support Services, Bible Society (Vic) / Sophia Thinktank, Kairos, Prison Network Ministries, Alpha for Prisons/Caring for Ex-Offenders and Five8.

Here’s some detail about this great workshop stream:

The failure of imprisonment to address the nature and causes of crime reflects a criminal justice system that is adversarial and punitive in nature, one that systematically alienates and polarizes offenders and victims from each other and from the community.  On the other hand, Restorative Justice offers a biblically based approach to crime that is inclusive and redemptive in nature.  Restorative Justice views crime as a violation of people and relationships. Restorative Justice seeks to meet victims’ needs, to hold offenders accountable while offering possibilities for restoration, and to invite church and community to participate in the justice process as healers and peacemakers. Restorative Justice programs work with the criminal justice system in developing and advocating criminal justice programs consistent with the principles of accountability, healing and restoration.  Although Christians have always been at the forefront in prison reform, the Church has largely deviated from a restorative approach to penal justice.  There is a view held by many Christians that justice is purely about retribution, an ‘eye for an eye’. Others, sadly, are simply unengaged and unaware.  As anyone canvassing for prison volunteers knows, there is an urgent need for Christians to live out their faith in a practical and vital way through ministering to prisoners, ex-prisoners, and their families.

Workshop content:

• Who goes to prison and the imprisonment experience;
• The criminal justice system vs. a restorative justice approach to justice;
• ‘Crossover’ – a proposed new cutting-edge prison & post-release program that helps offenders reintegrate to the community / church;
• Giovanni – an account of one prisoner’s redemptive journey with the support of a local church;
• Opportunities for involvement in prison and after prison ministry.