This book is a must read for anyone involved in or thinking about becoming involved in prison ministry. It is equally important for anyone who is interested in learning about the impact on society of the dramatic growth in the prison population in this country. It will challenge your perceptions of the justice system in this country and cause you to reflect on the biblical notion of redemption. The opening lines of the book, "When GOD CHOSE to take on human flesh, he did not become a priest or a monk, a king or a general, a poet or a philosopher. Instead, he became a death row prisoner, a condemned criminal executed alongside two thieves." give pause to our concepts of who the real prisoners are in our society. This book was recognized by the Catholic Press Association at the Catholic Media Convention on May 25th. It received a first place award in the category of Social Concerns. The citation is included below:
Award for Social Concerns First Place - The Convict Christ, by Jens Soering, Orbis Books, Maryknoll, N.Y. We found this book very compelling and well-written. The topic is timely, and the author's perspective is challenging and well-researched. It is a wonderful book for Christians who are ready to confront our society's "lepers"--prison inmates. The volume is easy to read and well-organized, and we especially appreciated the integration of Scripture, personal stories and broader reflections.
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