NCJ Number
137627
Date Published
1990
Length
233 pages
Annotation
Based largely on the annual reports of chaplains, published between 1837 to 1916 as part of the reports of the Directors of Penitentiaries or the Minister of Justice, this study of the chaplaincy in Canada's Federal penitentiaries is designed to let the early chaplains tell their own story.
Abstract
These personal reports provide ample original documentation of the contribution of early chaplains to the theory and practice of penology in Canada. Because the type of reformatory which Canada has called penitentiary is an adopted one, this book first explores the origins of such institutions. Since the concept of penitentiary has religious roots, the expectations of the role of religion in such prisons is particularly relevant. This study shows how the chaplains' commitment to their mission has compelled them to treat all inmates with compassion and dignity in the hope of their eventual rehabilitation. Chaplains have been active participants in the criminal justice system, both with respect to their pastoral ministry and to what they see as their prophetic calling. 2 appendixes