To Visit the Imprisoned - September Work of Mercy

The Work of Mercy for September is, To Visit the Imprisoned.

There are a number of ways that we can fulfill this corporal work of mercy if it is not convenient or practical to physically visit a jail or prison. Some of the things we can do include:

To recruit and train volunteers to visit prisoners and/or help in other ways; i.e., corresponding as a pen pal. (If you choose to become a pen pal with a prisoner it is important never to give out any personal information. A program like this might be best co-ordinated through your local Parish using their address to send and receive letters.)

To provide the prisoners with religious materials, such as Order of Malta Bibles and Prayer Books, rosaries, other books, magazines, and materials.

To inform the public and legislators of needed reforms in laws and practices.

To improve the public perception of people who are imprisoned.

To support halfway houses and foster employment opportunities for prisoners after they are released.

To work with families of prisoners to offer them hope and support at a difficult time in their lives.