NEWS & VIEWS
from a CATHOLIC perspective

      Philadelphia, 21 (NE) "No matter what you have done, you can always become a saint", said Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, to inmates of the Montgomery County Prison.

      During a visit that also included lunch, Cardinal Bevilacqua explained inmates that holiness is not something unreachable. "It takes doing one's daily tasks well and for the honor and glory of God", he said during the service held for about 90 male inmates. The Archbishop also recalled the Gospel story about the thief crucified next to the Lord Jesus who was forgiven.

      During a press conference held before the visit, Cardinal Bevilacqua pointed out the need to give hope to those in jail. "'They've committed offenses against society and other human beings, but we're ready to forgive them if they're truly sorry". "There is always hope they can become better human beings", he stated.

      Cardinal Bevilacqua said as well that it is correct to penalize criminals for their offenses, but explained he does not support death penalty. "The Church supports the right of the state to inflict the death penalty but says there is no reason for the state to use that right", he affirmed.

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