"Chaplains must be heralds of God's compassion and forgiveness to prisoners who can be overwhelmed by feelings of isolation, shame and rejection, says Benedict XVI.
The Pope said this today to the participants of the 12th World Congress of the International Commission of Catholic Prison Pastoral Care, being held in Rome through Tuesday.
About the theme of this year's congress, "Discovering the Face of Christ in Every Prisoner," the Holy Father said it "aptly portrays your ministry as a vivid encounter with the Lord."
"Indeed," the Pontiff continued, referring to his encyclical "Deus Caritas Est," "in Christ the 'love of God and love of neighbor have become one,' so that 'in the least of the brethren we find Jesus himself, and in him … God.'
"Your ministry requires much patience and perseverance. Not infrequently there are disappointments and frustrations."
Via Zenit
For those who do prison ministries, we offer our prayers of support.
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