Forgiveness

Michele Morris did not grow up with a perfect mother. But, after a long journey that ultimately brought her on pilgrimage to the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy, she has one now.

The central message of the liturgical season of Lent is repentance for one’s sins and the disposition God has toward those who have sorrow for their transgressions — mercy and forgiveness. Father Kenneth Dos Santos, MIC, explains in his latest column for CatholicStand.com.

“Now hold on,” Chris Sparks imagines some folks saying, “loving the annoying is one thing, but loving the evil people, the truly wicked who do unspeakable things to myself, my family, or the innocents of the world — HOW???” Jesus shows us the way, of course.

“You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mt 22:39). Jesus called that the second greatest commandment, after love of God. And there, entangled in one commandment, is love of self as well as love of others.

Up to this point in the parable, the prodigal son's repentance does not appear to be very genuine. There is a strong element of self-seeking calculation in his words.

If we didn't believe and came before God, would He give us a second chance to believe?

Are you taking deep breaths and gathering yourself before the relatives gather for Christmas? One reader does, and Dr. Stackpole shares some thoughts.

One reader writes, "I know that our Lord has asked us to not be afraid, but that is easier said than done."

Still beating youself up over the past? Dr. Stackpole offers some considerations and some tips to show how we can learn to forgive ourselves.

How far does the forgiveness of our Savior extend in the Sacrament of Reconciliation? Farther than you can imagine, according to the Church, the Bible, and St. Faustina!