Forgiveness is the theme for Gainesville youth at weekend retreat

By TJJD Communications staff —

The Gainesville State Juvenile Correctional Facility recently hosted a three-day event in collaboration with Kairos Torch ministries.

Six youth from the facility were joined by volunteer guides to help the youth understand the topics being discussed each day.

The Kairos Torch Christian ministry serves incarcerated youth and young adults across the country and in Texas juvenile facilities, where they encourage pro-social character and behaviors, making better life choices and seeking life balance.

Kairos is a Greek word meaning a time that is right for crucial action or a decisive moment. The ministry says they interpret Kairos as “God’s special time” and they aim to help incarcerated men, women and youth find forgiveness and meaning so they can grow into responsible citizens.

The event featured guest speakers, arts and crafts projects and shared meals.

Gainesville Volunteer Coordinator Carmelo Rodriguez said the major theme of the weekend retreat was forgiveness, which can help address behavioral issues.

Volunteers helped the youth in attendance understand that forgiveness is not only for others who may have hurt you, but also something we should have for ourselves. Forgiveness towards ourselves can often be the missing piece to forgiving others.

Rodriguez said they are looking forward to collaborating with the Kairos Torch program more in the future.