During World War II, St Maximilan Kolbe, a Polish Franciscan, was arrested by the Gestapo for his anti-Nazi publications and imprisoned at Auschwitz Concentration Camp. Witnesses recount how he provided spiritual solace to his fellow prisoners, holding secret masses and prayers, and sharing his meagre rations with those in need. In July 1941, he offered his life in exchange for a fellow prisoner, Franciszek Gajowniczek; and was sent to the starvation bunker where he continued to provide spiritual comfort to others with him, before being executed by lethal injection. St Kolbe’s legacy reminds us that even in the darkest of places, the light of Christ can shine through acts of love, compassion and kindness.

St Maximilian Kolbe is the patron saint of Prison Ministry Mumbai.

In India, there are over 5,70,000 prisoners, around 4,00,000 of which are languishing in jail without conviction. Over 41,000 prisoners are imprisoned in Maharashtra.

Prison Ministry Mumbai (PMM), along with its counselling and legal aid team, works in five prisons and children’s homes toward the integral human development of prisoners in Mumbai, Kalyan and Thane. Through the coordinated efforts of its volunteers, PMM provides medical assistance, setting up dental clinics, organising skin, gynaecology, paediatric, eye and ENT camps, and conducts vocational training and literacy programmes. Additionally, in the Children’s Homes, volunteers conduct educational, mentoring, counselling, beautician, dance, culinary, and art and craft sessions. Computer labs with dedicated teachers have also been set up.

How can you help?

In three ways; first - through your prayers. You can join the PMM Intercessory Team and pray for the reformation of prisoners. Secondly, through your voluntary service. Even small acts of love can make a big difference. Thirdly, your financial support is invaluable in helping Prison Ministry Mumbai actualise their plans.

For more information, write to archprisonministry@gmail.com.