These educational modules are an opportunity for small groups to learn about restorative justice, consider how it relates to our Catholic faith, and discern the call to action in personal life, parish community, and the criminal justice system. Restorative Justice, Restorative Living is four evening sessions of rich content and dialogue that can be a part of your parish or ministry's commitment to combating racial injustice and fostering a culture of encounter. 

Overview & Objectives

In addition to informative videos and presentations, the modules use circles for dialogue so that participants experience a restorative practice. Materials include detailed facilitator guides, participant handouts, prayerful reflection, and resources for further learning. Content and structure integrates Catholic teaching and prayer, is adaptable to varied environments, and strives to be inclusive of diverse perspectives and experiences. 

Through the Catholic Social Teaching learning model of "see, judge, act", participants will:

  1. Develop an understanding of crime in terms of people harmed and relationships violated and restorative justice through a lens of Catholic spirituality and social thought.

  2. Consider human dignity and integral connection in relation to the criminal justice system and racial injustice.

  3. Pray and reflect together on living restoratively in personal relationships, parish communities, and the criminal justice system.

  4. Discern opportunities for action that promote restorative justice through ministry and advocacy. 

CMN Support and Collaboration

Whether you are an experienced restorative justice practitioner or are new to the topic, CMN staff is a resource to groups using Restorative Justice, Restorative Living. CMN's Director of Restorative Justice, Caitlin Morneau, completes a thorough orientation with facilitators and is available for questions and suggestions as needed. 

CMN values the insight of diverse perspectives as we grow this program. Ongoing dialogue with facilitators and group feedback strengthen its impact and contribute to a national conversation on restorative justice from a Catholic perspective. 

Facilitator Orientations

If you are interested in bringing this resource to your parish or ministry group, please contact us to schedule online facilitator orientation (via Zoom). CMN staff will contact you with additional information and materials. 

Click here to contact!

For questions about CMN's Small Group Modules, contact Caitlin Morneau, Director of Restorative Justice, at caitlin@catholicsmobilizing.org.