The Ministry of Justice and the Lithuanian Bishops’ Conference signed a cooperation agreement on pastoral care services in imprisonment institutions
Today, on the 1st of December, a cooperation agreement was signed between the Lithuanian Bishops’ Conference and the Ministry of Justice on the provision of pastoral care services in the imprisonment institutions of the country.
The agreement was signed by Minister of Justice Rita Tamašunienė and Archbishop Gintaras Grušas, President of the Lithuanian Bishops' Conference.
Under the agreement, spiritual guidance in the penal enforcement system will be provided not only by chaplains, but also by their assistants. It is planned that, before starting activities, chaplain assistants will undergo special training to prepare for work with inmates.
“There is a shortage of psychologists in imprisonment institutions – although they are being sought intensively, the need remains high. Therefore, chaplain assistants will be able to reduce this shortage partly and strengthen the emotional support provided to inmates. People serving sentences often need support – to be heard and get help in dealing with life difficulties,” said Minister of Justice Rita Tamašunienė.
The Minister emphasised her gratitude to the Church for its willingness to cooperate more closely: “I am sincerely delighted that we have the opportunity to strengthen cooperation with the Church. I am grateful for the willingness to contribute to this important mission and to work together in the field of spiritual care in the places of deprivation of liberty”.
According to the Minister, visits to imprisonment institutions clearly reveal the need of inmates to be heard and understood: “Many inmates are looking for a way back – from the wrong turn to a more meaningful and responsible life. Such conversations clearly show how important it is to have a person nearby who can help find hope”.
According to Archbishop Gintaras Grušas, President of the Lithuanian Bishops' Conference, this agreement will expand spiritual assistance in places of imprisonment. The plan is to engage assistants with theological education whose goal is to serve people and convey faith and hope to them.
Currently, there are 25 psychologists and 9 psychiatrists in the Lithuanian Prison Service.