by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Catholic Archbishop of Jos, His Grace Most Rev Dr. Mathew Ishaya Audu, has charged Plateau Prison inmates to know that the most important lesson where they are is the “value of correction.”
“Mistakes happen, but it’s crucial to recognize them, accept them, and work towards becoming a better person. When you acknowledge your wrongdoing, God will accompany you on your journey of transformation,” he stated.
Archbishop Audu was speaking during the celebration of the Annual Mass for Prison inmates at the Correctional Center Jos, on Christmas day, organised by the JDPC of the Catholic Archdiocese of Jos to share the love with them and to celebrate Christmas with them.
He urged them to accept that they are there because “something went wrong; to acknowledge it and work to correct it. Once you do that, freedom will follow.”
While calling on those taking care of the inmates to remember that “they are our brothers and sisters and they should be treated with dignity and humanity, for it is through this that God will bless them. Do not see them as criminals, but as fellow human beings.”
The Archbishop further assured and prayed that, in no distant time, some of them will be released, through the chaplain, saying, “I received this document to present to the governor, and we will pray together for mercy. If your name is included, perhaps before the end of this year, you will hear the good news of your release.”
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Dr. Stephen Akpe (from the Justice, Development, Peace, and Charity, JDPC), said “Christmas marks the fulfillment of God’s promise. It is the celebration of God becoming man, dwelling among us, and bringing light into our lives.”
He assured them that they are not forgotten, saying, “Because your current situation does not define the entirety of your life. Joy and happiness can still be shared, even within these walls, because Christ meets us where we are – not where we want to be. This is the essence of Christmas: God reaching out to us in love.”
According to him, “Today is Boxing Day. Traditionally, it is a time to share gifts, while we have brought some material gifts for you,” and encouraged them to also share intangible gifts – like forgiveness, peace, and reconciliation.
“If there is someone you hold a grudge against, find it in your heart to forgive them. If someone has wronged you, let go of the bitterness. Forgiveness is one of the greatest gifts you can offer to others and to yourself,” he urged.
Rev. Fr. Stephenb Akpe said, “No matter how small an act of kindness or forgiveness may seem, it can have a profound impact on others. Whether it’s a smile, a kind word, or a gesture of goodwill, these are gifts we can all share.
“As we reflect on the joy of Christmas, let us remember that Christ himself taught us to love one another. When we forgive, show mercy, and share what we have – no matter how little – we embody the true spirit of Christmas,” he stated.
He further encouraged the inmates to hold on to hope and faith, adding that “The Church, through the Archdiocese, is here for you. We visit you not just as a formality but to remind you that you are not forgotten, that your humanity is valued, and that God’s love reaches even here.”
Also, the Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) in-charge of Jos Custodial Center (MSCC), commended the Church for the prayers and support, saying that they cannot do anything without the Church’s support.
Our correspondent reports that a staggering number of about 1,137 inmates are currently in the Jos Custodial Center. Items to be distributed to the inmates include food, drinks, drugs and blankets, among others.