Archbishop Chaput Visits a Philadelphia Prison With Message of Hope For Inmates
By Dan Wing
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Roman Catholic archbishop Charles Chaput made a rare visit to a Philadelphia prison this morning, where he presided over a special mass just for inmates and prison staff.
Surrounded by top local church officials, Chaput opened the mass by reminding the 50 or so inmates that even though they may have strayed from the path, they have not been forgotten by the church:
"Now, when we say that God loves us, we don't just mean that he loves us just as a group, we mean that he loves us each individually. Whether we're sinners or not. Whether we're free or in prison."
Chaput also pointed out that Pope Francis holds inmates, and outcasts of all kinds, in special regard. And with the pope visiting Philadelphia later this year for the World Meeting of Families, the archbishop made a point to let the inmates know that they were welcome.
"So, we're looking forward to that, and I hope that in some way you can participate in it," he told them.
Prison officials presented Chaput with a refurbished ceremonial chair previously donated by the archdiocese. As thanks, Chaput told the inmates that he would present the chair to Pope Francis as a gift on their behalf.
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