On September 23, 2026, a Pastoral Programme on Prison Ministry was conducted at Good Shepherd Seminary, Coimbatore, with the participation of seven Deacon Brothers. The programme aimed to deepen their understanding of the Church’s mission to serve prisoners and their families with compassion, mercy, and love.
A moving highlight of the programme was the sharing of personal experiences by the wife and daughter of a prisoner, including his daughter, Dr. Vidivelli. They spoke about the emotional struggles, social challenges, and hardships experienced by families of incarcerated individuals. Rev. Fr. S. A. Lourduraj, a former prisoner, also shared his life experiences, offering valuable insights into the challenges of imprisonment and the journey towards rehabilitation.
Officials from Prison Ministry India (PMI) – Coimbatore explained the ministry’s mission, activities, and ongoing efforts to support prisoners and their families. They also shared their personal experiences of service, highlighting the importance of understanding, forgiveness, reconciliation, and the restoration of human dignity.
The programme provided the Deacon Brothers with a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the pastoral needs of prisoners and their families. Through these personal testimonies and interactions, they were encouraged to approach their future ministry with greater empathy, sensitivity, and dedication.
The gathering reaffirmed the importance of Prison Ministry as an essential expression of the Church’s mission, bringing hope, healing, and the love of Christ to prisoners and their families.