Catholic Mobilizing Network (CMN) released its expansive new resource, Paths of Renewed Encounter: A Restorative Justice Engagement Guide for Catholic Communities, in June 2021.
This free toolkit — available in digital, hard copy, and printable PDF formats — offers practical guidance on how to implement restorative justice within the unique context of Catholic ministry.
“At CMN, we have observed a growing desire among Catholics to put restorative justice into practice, but many don’t know where to begin,” said CMN Executive Director Krisanne Vaillancourt Murphy. “Paths of Renewed Encounter seeks to guide readers along a process of learning and discernment as they explore ways to integrate restorative approaches within their communities.”
The engagement guide is rich in related resources, including videos, prayers, handouts/worksheets, books/articles, reflection questions, and more.
Drawing from the wisdom of Catholic ministry leaders, restorative justice practitioners, and Pope Francis' prophetic encyclical, "Fratelli Tutti," the engagement guide begins by highlighting the foundational concepts of restorative justice. It goes on to utilize the familiar pastoral cycle for social action to offer practical considerations for ways to integrate restorative practices within various Catholic contexts.
“Catholic ministries are uniquely suited for engagement with restorative justice,” said Vaillancourt Murphy. “We hope that Paths of Renewed Encounter will be a launchpad for many Catholic communities to begin shepherding processes that transform broken relationships, communities, and systems.”
