In the United States, there are hundreds of various programs aimed at helping, socializing, adapting, and integrating inmates released from places of detention. Some organizations are solely dedicated to transporting released prisoners, others to housing them, or finding employment, social connections, and medical examinations. Numerous psychologists, volunteers, social workers, medical professionals, and others work together with a single goal: to help individuals find their path in life and break all ties with their criminal past. They are monitored, checked, and carefully observed to see if the person wants to live in society as they should or not.
Seventy percent of all these programs are funded by donors, benefactors, and people who believe that the rehabilitation and social adaptation of prisoners are very important for the entire society and the state as a whole.
Not a single cent has been received in the accounts of the Prison Mission of the Odigitria Charity Fund in the last six months.
We work, it is hard for us, but it is hard for everyone now because of the war, and it is not appropriate now...
It is appropriate.
Because life goes on.
Former prisoners are being released, and to prevent them from committing new crimes, they need help. Yes, not everyone will be saved, but someone among us will avoid trouble because the person ended up under a roof, ate, washed, and relaxed, rather than running around angrily looking for someone to grab by the throat.
God's commandments and common sense both say the same thing - it is important. For the sake of having one less criminal on the streets of my city, for the sake of saving one's own soul.
And the Holy Gospel tells us that the Lord wants us to visit prisoners, and those who follow God's instructions are called blessed...
The Beatitudes are not our own choice. They are a guide to fulfilling all the commandments, not one instead of another...
So, join in acts of love and mercy, and our Lord God will be with you...
