Second chances after prison: A Catholic mission we can’t ignore

Published on August 26, 2025

The Gospel calls us to visit the imprisoned—but what are we supposed to do when someone who has been released from prison comes home? It’s a question that has both spiritual and practical ramifications.

Each year, more than 600,000 individuals are released from prison in the United States. Within five years, roughly 71% will return to prison. A sobering reality.