This workshop for spiritual directors explored the many faces of forgiveness, what forgiveness is not, and the nature of this spiraling process.
True forgiveness does not come easily because it always involves betrayal that must be acknowledged — betrayal of values, betrayal by others, by institutions, by ourselves.
It is usually a long, slow process that involves suffering and taps into the full range of our emotions and our original wounds. The courageous journey ultimately brings us face to face with the depth of our trust in a truly compassionate and personally merciful God. Not to attempt the process is to deny ourselves an enormous spiritual opportunity for grace and healing. Come and explore the many faces of forgiveness, what forgiveness is not, and the nature of this spiraling process. As Indira Gandhi has said, “Forgiveness is a virtue of the brave.”
Janet Corso is a spiritual director and retreat and program presenter. Recently retired as director of Mariandale Retreat and Conference Center, she taught philosophy for 33 years and founded and directed Sarabrae Women’s Spirituality Center. She currently trains and supervises spiritual directors at Linwood Spiritual Center, Marist Brothers Bronx Spiritual Directors’ Training Program and leads Mariandale’s Contemplative Formation Program team.