Diocese Hosts Talk on Criminal Justice Reform

Presentation to focus on reducing recidivism and helping offenders improve their lives

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The Catholic Diocese of Cleveland is hosting a free public presentation on Tuesday, March 3rd at 7:30 pm in the Breen Center at Saint Ignatius High School. The event, titled "Justice & Mercy: A Better Way to Criminal Justice", will feature Dr. Brian Lovins, founder of Justice System Partners, discussing how to hold people accountable while also helping them thrive upon returning to the community.

Why it matters

The discussion aims to reimagine the criminal justice system beyond just punishment, focusing instead on coaching and support to reduce recidivism rates and help offenders reintegrate into society. This aligns with the Catholic Church's teachings on restorative justice and the dignity of all people.

The details

Dr. Lovins, who holds a PhD in Criminology from the University of Cincinnati and is the former President of the American Probation and Parole Association, will present on new approaches to corrections that go beyond traditional incarceration. The event is co-sponsored by the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland's Office for Human Life and Chaplaincy Ministries, as well as Catholic Charities' Diocesan Social Action Office.

  • The presentation will take place on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 7:30 pm.

The players

Dr. Brian Lovins

Founder of Justice System Partners and former President of the American Probation and Parole Association.

Catholic Diocese of Cleveland

The organizer of the event, through its Office for Human Life and Chaplaincy Ministries, and Catholic Charities' Diocesan Social Action Office.

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What’s next

The Diocese encourages the public to register and attend the free presentation to learn more about criminal justice reform.

The takeaway

This event highlights the Catholic Church's commitment to restorative justice and the belief that the criminal justice system should focus on rehabilitation and reintegration, not just punishment, to help offenders improve their lives and reduce recidivism.