“Forgiveness,” the dictionary says, “is the intentional and voluntary process by which a victim undergoes a change in feelings and attitude regarding an offense, lets go of negative emotions such as vengefulness, with an increased ability to wish the offender well.” In real life, forgiveness is a complex and nuanced process that rests at the heart of meaningful human relationship . We are all, by nature, both offenders and victims. Religious community provides a place and a foundation of common understandings that allows a deepened understanding of the blessings and responsibilities involved in both forgiving and being forgiven. Let us explore together the elements of our common understandings of forgiveness.

Topics: Forgiveness