Prison ministry initiatives promote human dignity

Nation-wide network helps volunteers improve service to inmates, victims, and communities

Former prison inmate Keith Swayne, left, talks with Paul Collins, who helped him after his release. The two met through the St. Vincent de Paul Society's prison ministry program, which helps newly released inmates adjust to mainstream society when they have no family or friends to turn to for help. CNS photo / Don Blake, The Dialog.

Prison ministry efforts are uniting nation-wide to improve the ways they reach out to inmates, victims, and communities affected by crime. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.


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Bishop details secrecy of Christian conversions in Lebanon

Jesuit Father Martin McDermott administers the sacraments of Christian initiation for new members of the Church on Pentecost Sunday in Beirut May 27. Among those joining the Church was a Yemen-born Muslim who had fled his home country because of his desire to become a Christian. CNS photo / Dalia Khamissy.

According to a local bishop, numerous conversions of Muslims to Christianity occur every year in Lebanon but the true number is unknown because of the risk of social stigma and persecution. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.

'Boring' budget positions Tories for 2015 election debate

Cardus vice president Ray Pennings on Parliament Hill on budget day. Deborah Gyapong / CCN.

The 2014 budget, described by Finance Minister Jim Flaherty as "boring," positions Ottawa for a surplus next year and a debate on the proper role of government. For full story see The B.C. Catholic website.