"We are still a long way from the time when our conscience can be certain of having done everything possible to prevent crime and to control it effectively so that it no longer does harm and, at the same time, to offer to those who commit crimes a way of redeeming themselves and making a positive return to society. If all those in some way involved in the problem tried to develop this line of thought, perhaps humanity as a whole could take a great step forward in creating a more serene and peaceful society."

Pope John Paul II, July 9, 2000

The Caritas Europa Community of Penitentiary Justice Practitioners met, for the ninth time since its creation, in Vila Real, Portugal, between May 15-17, 2024, to draft a position document that would further involve the Church in the social (re)integration of ex-prisoners through the creation of concrete and effective mechanisms, including the reform of penal policies worldwide. The Director of Caritas Moldova, Mr. Edward Lucaci, participated in these works with colleagues from Portugal, France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, and Lithuania.

The elaborated position document includes extremely important aspects related to the self-determination of prisoners in the rehabilitation and reintegration process, the connection between poverty inside and outside the penitentiary and the criminogenic potential of this vulnerability, and the need for punishments and plans for their release that encourage rehabilitation without creating even more recidivism.

The experts also visited Vila Real prison and participated in a mass officiated by Bishop António Augusto de Oliveira Azevedo.

On the last day of the workshop, they talked with officials from the Portuguese penal system about current practices, challenges, and plans.

Many thanks to Caritas Vila Real and Caritas Portugalia colleagues, who flawlessly organized this working visit.