On Jan. 23, Samford University’s Cumberland School of Law partnered with the Alabama Appleseed Center for Law & Justice to host a lecture featuring award-winning author, theologian and former federal prosecutor Matthew Martens, author of Reforming Criminal Justice: A Christian Proposal. During his address to a full audience at Samford’s Reid Chapel, Martens discussed the intersection of Christian faith and criminal justice reform, with a focus on proportionality, accountability and love of neighbor.
Alabama Appleseed is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization whose mission is to confront unjust systems through research, bridge-building and advocacy to create an Alabama that prioritizes justice and opportunity. Ramona Albin, associate professor of law at Cumberland School of Law and a member of the Alabama Appleseed Board of Directors, served as a co-organizer for the lecture.
“Cumberland was honored to co-sponsor this event with Alabama Appleseed,” Albin said. “Matt Martens powerfully explained the through line between biblical justice and criminal justice reform.”
Carla Crowder, executive director of Alabama Appleseed, said, “Matt Martens' words need to be heard across our state. What I love about Matt's work is that he backs each of his claims with a wealth of history, law and scripture. His analysis of the deep, systemic flaws in our justice system is irrefutable. I'm so grateful such an energetic crowd turned out to learn about what biblical justice requires and how we are falling far short of that ideal.”
Following Martens’ address, Crowder moderated a panel discussion featuring Martens and Derrick Ervin, associate pastor at Faith Church in Midfield, Alabama. Now an accomplished entrepreneur, in 2006, Ervin was sentenced to life without parole in prison for a drug offense. He became active in Prison Fellowship and was eventually resentenced and released. He now dedicates his life to helping others find redemption and rebuild their lives.
Crowder added, “This event showed that people of faith stand ready and determined to learn about and advocate for desperately needed reforms in Alabama's criminal justice system.”
David Cimbora, Samford University provost and vice president of academic affairs, who attended the lecture said, “Mr. Martens presented a compelling critique of aspects of our criminal justice system. His critique was founded on a Christian worldview, which provided the audience with ample resources and motivation for advocacy and reform. The panel gave an opportunity for the audience to engage in the topic. Mr. Ervin's personal testimony was both moving and inspirational. I was proud for Samford to have hosted such an important lecture and to see so many students and community members from around the state of Alabama attend.”
