Another story from prison

In a society where the stability of family life is threatened by drug abuse, leading to prostitution, sexual abuse and other crimes, it was good to hear Cathy, a woman in Holloway prison, remark to me:
"For the first time in my life, I feel like I'm worth something. By respecting me and relating to me as a woman with dignity, you have helped me to respect myself, and that feels good."

This affirmed me in my own living of the aim of our Holy Family Association today i.e. to affirm the dignity of the human person.

My name is Kathleen. As Roman Catholic Chaplain in a women's prison, I have statutory duties to fulfil daily, like meeting new prisoners, visiting the Healthcare Unit, taking a weekly prayer meeting where the women share their fears and their need for forgiveness. Sunday Mass is well attended. Most of my time is spent listening to stories of grief, abuse, suicidal feelings and also joy when they feel they have grown as persons or learnt a new skill or felt God's personal love for them.

My priority is to respect each woman as a daughter of God, despite her being abusive or loud or violent with staff. It is possible to get inside her protective shell to the vulnerable woman inside. So many feel they are worthless, but eventually they come to realise God loves and forgives them. It is my privilege to be an instrument in this process of growth and transformation.