ROCKFORD—“The Light of Christ Shines through the Dark Night of Prison” is the title of a program to be held Oct. 27 at St. Rita Parish, 6254 Valley Knoll Road, here.

Three speakers will offer  prayer, reflection and an introduction to prision ministry.

Father Christian Reuter, prison ministries coordinator for the Diocese of Belleville, will discuss  how the “darkness” in criminal justice developed and why Catholic bishops have labeled it “a broken system.”

Father Reuter will also lead participants through a reflection of how everyone is called to aid the poor and marginalized.

He will also explain Catholic prison  ministry and how it relates to social justice and pastoral care.

Brian Nelson, an ex-convict, will talk about  his years of solitary confinement at Tamms Correctional Center and the devastating effects of such practices and policies.

Laura Ortiz, who is active in the Diocese of Rockford prison and jail ministry, will talk about her calling to prison lay ministry that began with a family member’s involvement in the criminal justice system.

Lou Slapshak, of the Diocese of Belleville prison ministry, will discuss the critical role that faith-based and community support plays for a successful transition back into society for the imprisoned.  He will also highlight prison ministry leadership training available through Lewis University.

Father Howard Barch, coordinator of prison ministries for the Diocese of Rockford, will offer opening and closing prayers for the evening.

Participants will gather at 6 p.m. and talks will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The program is free but registration is appreciated. The evening is sponsored by Life in Christ Catholic Jail Ministry Team.

Info: lifeinchristrockford@gmail.com; Colette Anderson, 815/243-0317.