Overview

• Cardinal Blase Cupich led a Christmas Mass at Cook County Jail, urging detainees to embrace their humanity and not let past mistakes define them.
• The event, organized by Kolbe House Jail Ministry, included music from the Chicago Black Catholic Choir and scripture readings in English and Spanish.
• Rev. Jesse Jackson and members of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition followed with a service emphasizing dignity, hope, and the message that 'you are somebody.'
• Leaders highlighted the importance of remembering incarcerated individuals year-round and supporting their reintegration into society after release.
• The services brought smiles, singing, and a sense of community to detainees, with leaders and advocates offering words of encouragement and prayers for peace.