The Faith and Justice Team of Saint Thomas More Parish, in conjunction with the Diocese of Camden’s Office of Life and Justice Ministries, is sponsoring an information night on prison ministry.
The gathering, which will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on May 13 in Cherry Hill, will address how to minister to those who are incarcerated or re-entering society, and to their children and families.
“It’s part of our Gospel mandate to seek those on the margins and let them know we care,” said Dr. Michael Sims, director of the diocese’s Office of Life and Justice Ministries.
One of the evening’s presenters, Christine Betson-Smith, will speak on “Ministering to the Children of the Incarcerated.” Betson-Smith serves on the Saint Thomas More Life and Justice Team and is coordinator of the parish’s annual Angel Tree Program. This initiative ensures that gifts are collected at Christmastime for children whose parents are in jail or prison.
Mark Walton, founder of the Camden-based Hope Chocolates, will focus on “Ministering to the Incarcerated, During and After Prison.” Hope Chocolates is a nonprofit that trains and employs women and men recently released from prison.
“In our efforts to lead people to Church, we live mercy and seek justice,” Dr. Sims said, adding that the evening will include the three pillars of his office’s mission that are vital for societal change: spiritual formation, education, and action and advocacy.
“This program will help us to help families flourish,” he said.
Saint Thomas More Parish is located at 1439 Springdale Road, Cherry Hill. For more information or to register for the event, email stmfaithandjustice@gmail.com or call 856-424-3212.
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