Breaking Open the Word – Behind the Walls (Year A) A Liturgy and Prayer Companion for People in Prison This unique spiritual resource brings the Sunday readings of the Catholic Church to life in the hearts of those who live behind prison walls. Rooted in the Jesuit tradition and born from years of pastoral work in California prisons, Breaking Open the Word – Behind the Walls provides a weekly guide through the liturgical year (Cycle A), offering accessible reflections, prayers, and meditations crafted specifically for incarcerated individuals. Each week’s page features a reflection drawn from the lived experiences of people in prison, an Ignatian-style Gospel meditation, thoughtful reflection questions, and opening and closing prayers that speak honestly to the realities of prison life—longing, fear, hope, forgiveness, and transformation. Developed by the Jesuit Restorative Justice Initiative (JRJI), this book creates sacred space for those behind bars to connect with the universal Church, encounter Christ in Scripture, and find new meaning and direction through spiritual practice. It can be used individually or in small groups and is a powerful tool for chaplains, volunteers, and anyone accompanying incarcerated people on their spiritual journeys. Whether you’re serving time or serving others, Breaking Open the Word is a companion for conversion, healing, and the quiet courage of faith.