“Restorative Justice grows out of biblical authority, which emphasizes a right relationship with God, self, and community. When such relationships are violated or broken through crime, opportunities are created to make things right.

Most criminal justice systems around the world are retributive. These retributive justice systems profess to hold the offender accountable to the state and use punishment as the equalizing tool for accountability. In contrast, restorative justice seeks to hold the offender accountable to the victimized person, and to the disrupted community. Through God’s transforming power, restorative justice seeks to repair the damage, right the wrong, and bring healing to all involved, including the victim, the offender, the families, and the community. The Church is transformed when it responds to the claims of discipleship by becoming an agent of healing and systemic change.” (Book of Discipline 2004, ¶ 164 H)

 

We are currently looking to expand this vital ministry and be more involved in the immediate Huntsville area. One new area of ministry is to help restore the prayer room at the Hospitality House just a few blocks from the church. It has been open since August of 1986 and provides safe lodging and food to families who travel to Huntsville visit their incarcerated loved ones for general population visits, death row visits, inmate release and executions. Victim’s families often stay here as well when executions take place. 

 

If you would like to become involved, contribute financially or learn more about Restorative Justice Ministry opportunities, please call the church office at 295-5441 or email us through this web site.