A second chance

Photo by Frank J. Methe | CLARION HERALD

On Aug. 17, the Cornerstone Ministry of Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans hosted its annual symposium for systemic change in the penal system, and several speakers addressed the challenges of helping ex-offenders assimilate back into society upon their release from prison. Checo Yancy, chairman of LA CURE, said he was rehabilitated the very same day he entered prison, but he accepted responsibility for his crime and turned his life around. “You know what true freedom is?” Yancy asked the gathering St. John Berchmans Manor. “That’s when you can change the channel on your TV or get a cold glass of milk in the middle of the night.” Archbishop Gregory Aymond addressed the group, saying: “God does not give up on us. We should not give up on anyone.”