Catholic Christianity

• Jesus showed forgiveness when he was dying on a cross and said "Father, forgive them" and he forgave Peter for denying him 3 times
• Jesus' sacrifice was made for our salvation (forgiveness of sins) and so Catholics should also forgive
• Jesus taught forgiveness in the parable of the prodigal son
• Our Father teaches forgiveness "forgive those who trespass against us"
• Jesus taught to forgive 70x7 meaning endlessly
• Jesus taught "if you do not forgive others their sins, you Father will not forgive your sins"
• Catholic Church believes that a person can be forgiven by praying to God. However, they can also receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation whereby a person can seek absolution from their sins
• Example of people forgiving

  • Martin Luther King Jr chose to forgive those who were racist towards him
  • 1981, Pope John II was shot 4 times. 2 years later he visited his assassin in prison to say that he forgave him