- 03 November, 2026
VARANASI, November 3, 2026: Prison Ministry India (PMI) has called for a stronger focus on prisoners' human rights, rehabilitation and social reintegration, urging the Church, government and civil society to work together to support prisoners and their families.
The call emerged from PMI's 14th National Convention, held from October 17 to 20 at Nav Sadhana Pastoral Centre in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The four-day gathering brought together Church leaders, prison ministry coordinators, priests, religious, rehabilitation centre directors and volunteers from across the country.
Held under the theme, “To Hear the Cry, Heal the Wound, and Renew the Hope,” the convention examined the challenges of prison ministry, including prisoners' rights, rehabilitation, juvenile justice, psychological trauma, recidivism and the abolition of the death penalty.
The convention was formally inaugurated by Rata Krishna Mishra, Superintendent of Central Jail, Varanasi. Bishop Raphy Manjaly of Agra delivered the keynote address, while Bishop Valan Arasu, CBCI Chairperson for Prison Ministry India, delivered the presidential address. Bishop Eugene Joseph of Varanasi welcomed the delegates.
Bishop Peter Remigius, the first CBCI Chairperson for Prison Ministry India, celebrated the opening Mass on October 17. A documentary tracing the history and development of PMI, produced by Fr Prince Vettukattil, was also released.
A significant highlight was the distribution of the key to the 100th house constructed under PMI's housing project, which supports released prisoners and families rebuilding their lives after incarceration.
Several publications were released during the convention, including The Burning Bush, Horizons of God's Providence, The Gospel Behind Bars, Hope Behind Bars, Prison Ministry India – Birth and Growth and Prison Ministry Sunday Pastoral Letters.
Academic sessions examined the theological, pastoral and human rights dimensions of prison ministry. Resource persons included Bishop Jose Pulickal of Kanjirappally, former CBCI Chairperson for PMI; Fr Paul Puthussery; Fr Reni George of Bengaluru; Fr Varghese Karippery, co-founder and former National Coordinator of PMI; and Fr Raja, Secretary of the JPD Commission.
Regional discussions involving delegates from southern, central, northern and northeastern India provided an opportunity to share experiences, assess challenges and identify priorities for strengthening prison ministry.
Sessions on October 19 focused on recidivism, faith-based rehabilitation, children in conflict with the law, psychological trauma associated with imprisonment and the contribution of ECHO to prison ministry in Asian countries.
Prof Cyril John Moolakkattu of Christ University, Bengaluru, and Fr Antony Sebastian, former Juvenile Court Judge and Director of ECHO, Bengaluru, addressed issues concerning rehabilitation, juvenile justice and the welfare of children affected by the criminal justice system. Josepheena spoke about the psychological trauma experienced by prisoners.
Bishop Allwyn D'Silva, former PMI Chairperson and Auxiliary Bishop of Bombay, led a session on contemporary challenges facing the organisation. Delegates also discussed organisational priorities and future initiatives during group discussions and the General Body Meeting.
S. Sreejith, Director General of Police, Kerala, addressed the convention on correctional reforms and initiatives in the state, highlighting rehabilitation-oriented approaches and opportunities to improve prisoners' reintegration into society.
The convention also adopted the 14th National Convention Statement, presented by Fr Francis Kodiyan, CBCI Secretary for Prison Ministry India and National Coordinator of PMI. The statement consolidated the delegates' recommendations and commitments following the four days of deliberations.
The final day, October 20, focused on the abolition of the death penalty. Discussions reaffirmed the dignity and sanctity of every human life, including those convicted of serious crimes.
The valedictory programme recognised outstanding contributors from various state units and honoured directors of PMI homes serving released prisoners and children of incarcerated parents. Sr Amala DC, National Secretary of PMI, thanked Church leaders, government officials, resource persons, delegates, volunteers and benefactors.
In its concluding reflections, the convention stressed that imprisonment should not permanently exclude individuals from society. It called for greater attention to the needs of prisoners' families, particularly children, who often face social and economic hardships because of parental incarceration.
Rooted in the Gospel mandate, “I was in prison, you visited me” (Matthew 25:36), Prison Ministry India works with prisoners and their families through pastoral care, counselling, rehabilitation and reintegration programmes. The convention reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that incarceration does not become the end of a person's journey but an opportunity for transformation and a new beginning.
By Fr. Francis Kodiyan
CBCI Secretary to Prison Ministry India
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