Restorative Justice Ministry
Welcome
Mission Statement
The Archdiocese of San Francisco Restorative Justice Ministry is a ministry of presence, healing, and hope, rooted in the Catholic belief in mercy and the dignity of every human person. We accompany individuals and families affected by crime, incarceration, and violence—walking with victims, offenders, and communities to foster reconciliation, transformation, and peace. Through prayer, compassionate outreach, restorative practices, and advocacy, we work to restore relationships, support healing, and build a more just and compassionate society.
Our Vision
We envision a community where every person—especially those impacted by crime, incarceration, and violence—encounters the healing love of Christ. We strive for a society transformed by mercy, where relationships are restored, dignity is honored, and hope is renewed. Guided by the Holy Spirit, we seek a future in which justice is rooted in compassion, reconciliation is possible, and all people can flourish in peace.
The Support
We Offer
We offer healing and rehabilitation opportunities to those affected by crime—both victims and offenders—within our communities.
Help Us
Help Others!
Find your Calling Through Restorative Justice Ministry Volunteer Opportunities.
About The Support We Offer
Prayer Services at Murder Sites | Learn More
Support Services Offered: (Our services may include)
- Prayer or reflection at the location of the homicide, led by a priest or offered through quiet presence and remembrance.
- Assistance with funeral or memorial arrangements, supporting families as they navigate early decisions with care and sensitivity.
- Rosary or other prayer services (for Catholic families), or moments of reflection adapted to a family’s beliefs.
- Attendance at funerals or memorial services, standing in solidarity with families during their time of loss.
- Grief support visits after the funeral, providing continued presence, listening, and accompaniment.
- Thirty‑Day Memorial Mass (for Catholic families), or alternative remembrance when appropriate.
- Accompaniment to the cemetery, upon request—especially on birthdays, anniversaries, or significant dates.
- Ongoing remembrance and prayer for families and loved ones, recognizing that grief continues well beyond the initial loss.
- One‑Year Anniversary remembrance, through a Mass, prayer gathering, or simple moment of reflection with the family.
- Invitations to healing retreats, when families feel ready, offering space for reflection and connection with others who have experienced loss.
- Participation in Victims’ Rights Week observances and the Annual Mass for All Victims of Homicide, creating communal spaces of remembrance and solidarity.
Jail Services: Learn More
- Mass: The celebration of the Holy Mass, offering communal prayer, spiritual nourishment, and a tangible connection to the wider Church community.
- Holy Communion (Eucharist): Spiritual nourishment and connection to the wider faith community.
- Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession): Opportunities for mercy, reflection, and healing offered in a spirit of compassion and respect.
- Ash Wednesday Services: The distribution of ashes and facilitated moments of prayer and reflection, marking the beginning of the Lenten season and inviting repentance, renewal, and hope.
- Holiday Cards and Treats: Tangible expressions of remembrance, encouragement, and human connection during special seasons.
- Restorative Listening & Accompaniment: Calm, respectful spaces where individuals are heard, honored, and accompanied through compassionate presence.
Reentry Support | Learn More
The Reentry Support initiatives of the Archdiocese of San Francisco’s Restorative Justice Ministry are rooted in dignity, accompaniment, and hope.
Coming soon!