Sister Helen Prejean

In this enlightening conversation, Sister Helen Prejean, a Catholic nun and fierce anti-death penalty advocate, shares her transformative journey following Elmo Patrick Sonnier on death row. She reflects on witnessing executions, discussing the emotional intensity and the complexities of guilt and innocence. Sister Helen also explores the systemic injustices within the criminal system and her efforts to shift Catholic teachings on the death penalty. Her experiences challenge listeners to consider human dignity and the importance of compassion, even amidst profound loss.

Sister Helen Prejean, an 86-year-old Catholic nun and fierce advocate against the death penalty, shares her journey from a joyful Southern childhood to becoming a moral voice in the fight for justice. She discusses the impact of Vatican II on her life, her political awakening influenced by liberation theology, and her experiences accompanying death row inmates. With humor and warmth, she emphasizes the importance of listening to victims' families and advocates for a more inclusive role of women in the church. Julia even invites her mom for a lighthearted chat!

Sister Helen Prejean, a Catholic sister and renowned anti-death penalty advocate, shares her extraordinary journey in this engaging discussion. She recounts how her death-row ministry began with a pen-pal invitation and led her to accompany inmates like Pat Sonnier. The conversation explores deep themes of dignity, forgiveness, and the evolving stance of the Church on capital punishment. Sister Helen emphasizes the importance of listening, spiritual practices, and discernment, urging us all to recognize the humanity in everyone, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Sister Helen Prejean, a prominent Catholic nun and activist, has spent decades fighting against the death penalty, inspired by her experience with a death row inmate. She discusses the moral complexities surrounding capital punishment, emphasizing compassion and dignity. Sharing insights from her acclaimed memoir 'Dead Man Walking,' she touches on the emotional toll of the justice system on victims' families. Prejean also advocates for an inclusive church that embraces feminism and LGBTQ rights, revealing her personal struggles with love and duty.

The podcast discusses a man's emotional journey with playing a church organ, followed by Sister Helen Prejean sharing insights on abolishing the death penalty and facing mortality. It delves into topics like witnessing violence, forming deep connections, and navigating life's choices with faith and family support.