Restorative Justice Week 2008

Bulletin

Now these things are from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.

Obligations are created when people cause harm or fail to provide the context in which members could 'love your neighbour as yourself". In the aftermath of harm-doing the question is how do we heal the harm and prevent further violation from happening. Guided by values of inclusion, respect, healing and safety, a restorative worldview focuses on how we respond when we fail to foster a climate that allows healthy relationships. This restorative worldview values and nurtures healthy relationships at all levels of human interaction including in institutions and between nations. This means that those most affected by the harm and those responsible for the crime are key players in determining how to move forward. Meaningful accountability for the people most responsible and the healing experience for those harmed are key, as is community participation in supporting those involved.

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE WEEK 2008: From November 16^th to 23^rd the Correctional Service of Canada(CSC) in collaboration with the Church Council on Justice and Corrections CCJC) call Canada and the world to awareness and celebration of Restorative Justice at all levels of personal, systemic and national relationships.

This year's theme Fostering a Restorative Worldview, invites individuals and faith communities to use resources for worship services or group discussions to facilitate a deeper and broader understanding of restorative justice. The material includes information about restorative processes, and how restorative justice offers potential avenues to heal the harm that has been done to people and relationships.

To access Fostering a Restorative Worldview restorative justice worship and discussion resources, go to http://www.csc-cc.gc.ca/text/rj/rj2008/lett-eng.shtml or contact the Church Council on Justice and Corrections in Ottawa at 613 563-1688.