Author Lawrence Wright explores the surprising connections between Catholic nuns and women on Texas’ death row in his book, Redemption: Faith, Justice, and Sisterhood on Death Row. Both groups live in rooms termed ‘cells’ and adhere to similar daily routines, though their similarities extend beyond this.
Wright’s narrative follows seven women on Texas’ death row and the Sisters of Mary Morning Star, a Catholic order interacting with them. Despite not having a formal vow of silence, the nuns maintain a quiet lifestyle, speaking only during a weekly meal on Sunday afternoons. Wright shared with NPR’s Steve Inskeep, “These nuns have a code of silence. They only gather for one meal together all week.”
The book reveals the unexpected bonds formed between the women, as they found companionship and support. Wright discovered that the nuns introduced them to communal living through ancient monastic practices. This experience led Wright to believe that the women had undergone significant personal changes during their time in incarceration.
Wright also examined the fairness of the Texas justice system, expressing doubts about the convictions of some women on death row. Even when guilt was established, Wright was unsettled by the idea of execution after decades of imprisonment. He remarked, “It’s unjust to execute someone who’s paid the price,” questioning the fairness of execution decisions.
“There’s something grotesque about having people imprisoned for decades as they grow old and change,” Wright commented.
The interview, produced by Nia Dumas and Lilly Quiroz and edited by Adriana Gallardo, further delves into these themes. The digital edition was edited by Majd Al-Waheidi.
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