Prisoners in the La Joya and Nueva Joya jails are working on the construction of  250 confessionals that will be installed in the “Pardon Park” during the World Youth Day Panama (WYD),  January 22-27 and gaining on the way a path to their own second chance according to participants.

Some 35 inmates who are participating say “it is not a matter of 'simple joinery work”, but of feeling included in a project for young people, who like them face social risks, but who “can still take a different path.”.

In the  prison workshops, they have learned, teamwork and self-confidence,  and gained skills that they plan to put into practice once they leave the penitentiary.

Interior designer Lilibeth Bennet created two models of the confessionals, both inspired by the curved lines of the WYD logo and using the same colors.

For her, the designs take on an even more special meaning when brought to reality by inmates, “since in them is the transforming work of Christ, capable of bringing out the best in each one of us” she told El Siglo.

Jesus Ramos was convinced that he would pay his sentence in the middle of four walls, with the Bible as his only companion but , he was chosen to participate in this initiative and, despite not being Catholic, he is sure of the valuable contribution that the World Youth Day gives  to the young people of the world.

“I am evangelical and I am grateful that they have taken me into account because here I have learned to use the tools, to work together based on respect and t towards the same goal. Thanks to WYD, I feel included and happy to work for God, "said Ramos.