Hello ,
According to a new report from The Guardian, Norway's Bastoy prison island has the lowest prisoner recidivism rates in Europe-by a wide margin.
Here's the secret to Bastoy's success: The prison treats inmates like people.
Some say that it treats them too much like regular people, in fact. Other than the loss of their liberty, prisoners enjoy nutritious food, opportunities for meaningful training and employment, personal amenities like showers in their rooms, good sanitation, and more.
In spite of (or because?) of the relatively high view of inmates, the three "golden rules of Bastoy" - no violence, no alcohol, no drugs-are widely respected. Though frequently criticized for its high standard of living, the numbers don't lie. Something at Bastoy is working, and working well.
We've all heard the verse: "While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." But this means so much more than just an erasing our sins. He humanized us through his mercy, restored us to his image, had vision for us, and showed us a better way.
Bastoy, in its own way, is a tiny reminder of that unbelievable, difficult, restorative grace.
Have a great day and God bless!
