John McCartney from St. Paul of the Shipwreck is pictured giving his testimony about having a son who is incarcerated for life. (Photos courtesy Debra Greenblat/Catholic San Francisco)
March 29, 2018
St. Paul of the Shipwreck Parish in San Francisco held a special Mass on March 24 to welcome and bless the incarcerated and their families. “We gathered to pray for people in custody who live in jails and prisons and for their families that also feel incarcerated because the condition of their family members,” said Julio Escobar, coordinator of the archdiocesan restorative justice ministry. “Through this Catholic Mass we offered the message of hope and solidarity to prisoners’ families so they are accompanied and encouraged in their journey of suffering and isolation.” Shipwreck pastor Father Dan Carter and archdiocesan prison ministry chaplain Father Rene Iturbe celebrated the Gospel Mass for Restorative Justice, with Deacon Larry Chatmon assisting.
Parishioners welcome guests during the kiss of peace.
Shipwreck pastor Father Dan Carter invited families who need prayer to bring their children and gather around the altar for a blessing.
Julio Escobar, archdiocesan restorative justice coordinator, speaks at the Gospel Mass for Restorative Justice.