New Fruits from Wounded Soil: Pentecost and Restorative Justice

“I didn’t want to hurt people anymore. That’s when I began the journey toward my healing.”

In this webinar, hosted by NBA’s Justice Initiatives team, James “Sharif” Menefield joined NBA’s Community Engagement Senior Coordinator for Justice Initiatives Rev. Angel Luis Rivera-Agosto and Restorative Justice Consultant Rev. Nora Jacob for a conversation on what restorative justice means in practice.

“My life story is a testament to the grace and mercy of God.”

Sharif shared his journey of transformation through restorative justice, grounded in lived experience, accountability, and hope. After decades of incarceration, he discovered that healing is possible even in the most wounded places. Drawing on the imagery of Pentecost—new life emerging from wounded soil—this conversation invites us to see restorative justice as a practice in which healing, responsibility, and dignity take root.

“Now that I’m free, I am determined to continue living out the principles of restorative justice.”

This webinar provides a powerful reflection on how justice can bear new fruit when restoration, compassion, and courage guide our response to harm.

Moderator

Rev. Angel Luis Rivera-Agosto, NBA´s Community Engagement Senior Coordinator for Justice Initiatives

Speakers

Rev. Nora Jacob, NBA’s Restorative Justice Consultant

James “Sharif” Menefield