As a former prison inmate, i totally agree with the Catholic Church’s stand on the Death Penalty!
"Today, in fact, as a consequence of the possibilities which the state has for effectively preventing crime, by rendering one who has committed an offense incapable of doing harm - without definitely taking away from him the possibility of redeeming himself - the cases in which the execution of the offender is an absolute necessity “are very rare, if not practically non-existent.” (CCC 2267)
Unless there is an imminent threat to the safety of others, it is better to let the sinner live and groan in agony while he reflects on his sins and will eventually succumb to the Love of Jesus.
Many murders and rapists have repented and come to know Jesus Christ and to be a witness to others.
although i am a pitiful common thief, like the thief on the cross next to Jesus, i was blessed to be Redeemed by the Blood of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
i spent 14 months in prison where i finally, reluctantly, opened my heart to Jesus after endless days of groaning which still i still endure, and was able to be Blessed to witness to others by His Grace alone.
Sancta Maria, Mater Dei, Ora Pro Nobis Peccatoribus!
mark