A ministry of hope behind walls of young offenders centre

In brief

Volunteers and priests from the Archdiocese of Edmonton provide spiritual support to youth at the Edmonton Young Offenders Centre (EYOC). The prison ministry team includes four volunteers from Holy Trinity Catholic Parish in Spruce Grove: Harriet Fraser, Deacon Pat Hessel, Angela Andreychuk, and Dr. Bob Garneau. Two priests from the Archdiocese also assist the team by administering the sacraments of Baptism and First Reconciliation to mentees who are prepared to receive them.

The EYOC houses between 20 and 35 young people aged 12 to 18 who are awaiting trial. The population includes youth accused of serious crimes and repeat offenders, many of whom enter the justice system due to breaches of bail conditions. Approximately 85 percent of the residents are young men and 85 percent are of Indigenous descent. The facility contains three units for young women, young men, and youth with serious behavioral challenges. The ministry team offers presence and respect to help these individuals find paths toward healing and forgiveness.