Bush’s brother opens first ‘faith-based’ prison

Christmas in Florida ushered in America’s first ”faith-based prison” a sprawling jail in rural northern Florida, in which 800 inmates from 26 faiths are blending hallowed time with hard time.

Governor Jeb Bush, President George W Bush’s younger brother, dedicated the prison on Christmas Eve, saying it would encourage spirituality and – he hoped – cut reoffending. …

In addition to regular prayer sessions, the jail, which holds “mid-level felons” – men convicted of burglary, hold-ups, car theft and assault – will offer religious studies, choir practice and religious counselling seven days a week. There will also be job training and classes in subjects such as “parenting” and “character building”. …

Like his brother in the White House, Gov Bush believes that the best way to rehabilitate criminals is to “lead them to God”.

Don’t laugh: there are many on the Right who hope Jeb will be the third President Bush. No, this is not a Saturday Night Live skit. God help us. mjh