Preparing for the pope: Above, the final stain is applied to a commemorative chair for Pope Francis by inmates at the Philadelphia Industrial Correctional Center. At left, the Seal of Pope Francis is sanded by an inmate at the Northeast facility. SOURCE: ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA
Philadelphia Prison System staff and inmates have designed a handcrafted chair that will be presented as a gift to Pope Francis during his visit to the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility on Sunday, Sept. 27.
The commemorative chair was carved out of a solid block of walnut, consisting of 10-foot planks milled to size. Refinishing work was scheduled for this week.
After the woodworking is completed, the upholstery process will begin and the finishing touches will be made in anticipation of Pope Francis’ visit.
“We are delighted and grateful that our partners at the Philadelphia Prison System have taken it upon themselves to devote their time and energy into crafting this beautiful chair that will certainly be a welcome present for Pope Francis as he meets with inmates and their families,” said Donna Crilley Farrell, executive director of the World Meeting of Families — Philadelphia 2015. “Embodying the theme of the World Meeting of Families — Philadelphia 2015, ‘Love is Our Mission: The Family Fully Alive,’ Pope Francis’ ministry to those incarcerated and their affected family members that are too often overlooked is truly inspiring and highlights the power of love and family as a source of sustenance and strength for all of us.”
The chair is being developed by the PHILACOR program, the divisional name for 10 industry shops located throughout the Philadelphia Prison System. With roots dating to 1933, PHILACOR’s mission is to nurture the professional growth of inmates through providing real-life work experiences and skills to help prepare for post-release employment.
An average of 18 inmates daily work in the carpentry shop. They are selected based on excellent behavior, reliability and work ethic. They produce 70 completed pieces of furniture each month.
“Since learning that Pope Francis will be visiting the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility, the news has received a joyous and spirited reaction from our dedicated guards and staff, along with the prisoners we diligently serve and protect each day,” said Louis Giorla, commissioner of the Philadelphia Prison System. “I am also grateful that the Holy Father asked to include the families of inmates here in his visit. Families are often the collateral damage of incarceration, and his request to include these families shows his deep understanding of this dynamic. I know it will mean so much to so many.” ••
