Last night I went to bible study with Crossroads. I think I have mentioned Crossroads before. For all of you who don't know what that is, Crossroads is a college ministry put on by the Episcopal Church here in San Antonio. The Diocesan center is literally located around the corner from the school, behind Central Market in that neighborhood. I mentioned I went the other week, because I went and met a whole bunch of students from nearby Universities. Last night we officially started a bible study that is going to focus on a specific book at a time. Greg Richards is a brilliant guy, and he is in charge of running the night. After it was over, we had a great conversation. I was telling him that I am unsure about whether or not I still want to go into prison ministry. He said that there may be an opportunity to go to Uganda over the Christmas break. Are you kidding me?! That would be amazing!! He says that it would be the perfect opportunity for me, because I could get some first hand experience with restorative justice. In Sociology there are typically two types of justice that people talk about when a criminal is sentenced. The past form of justice is just to lock up the criminal and move on to the next case. However, restorative justice looks at who has been hurt and how they can be helped. Now, some people are immediately turned off from this, because it provides a form of therapy or rehabilitation for the offender. One thing to keep in mind is that if someone commits a crime, there is obviously something lacking from them having a well rounded personality. In many cases, criminals have been abused in the past and raised in a very unhealthy environment. That never excuses behavior, but, at least, it provides a clearer picture and better understanding. Also, the most important factor is the victim. When criminals are locked up and the justice system moves on, the victim is left to fend for themselves. In many cases, people have psychological problems after being the victim of a crime, especially a uniquely violent one. Restorative justice really focuses on the victim and how they can help. Going to Uganda would be an amazing opportunity, because I would be able to meet people who have committed crimes and been the victim of crimes and the role of restorative justice in their life. I am so excited to learn more!!
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