Unheard Voices: Reflections of a Prison Chaplain

With a Foreword by Peter McVerry SJ

‘…a fine and moving account of prison life. It should be read by all those who wish to listen to the unheard voices of those who live and work in prison. They may well find themselves changed.’   The Way

‘a compassionate, urgent voice’ – The Irish Times

‘I would recommend this book to anyone who has any interest in our criminal justice system and in society in general’ – Mick Clifford, Irish Examiner

‘…Sr Imelda Wickham [is] a champion of social justice and a believer in the redemptive ideal…a challenge she has set down in these humbling pages.’  – The Furrow

‘...accessible and pastoral, the book represents a clear call for the beginning of something like a prison abolitionist movement in Ireland.’ Working Notes, Jesuit Centre for Faith & Justice

‘written with warmth and understanding, challenge and encouragement, passion and compassion.’ Catholic South West

‘…Sr Imelda Wickham [is] a champion of social justice and a believer in the redemptive ideal…a challenge she has set down in these humbling pages.’–The Furrow

This book provides us with a brief human insight into life behind bars in our penal institutions. The author challenges the use of prisons to deal with addictions, mental health issues and homelessness, arguing that true justice lies in healing for all involved in criminal behaviour, including victim, perpetrator and society. Her reflections on prisoners’ stories also paints a picture of what life can be like in a prison cell.

Imelda Wickham PBVM was a Prison Chaplain for twenty years and held the role of National Coordinator of Prison Chaplains for three years. She is currently involved in establishing a support service for the families of people in prison called New Directions –Supporting Families of People in Prison.