Forgive Offenses

For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

—Matthew 6:14-15


Forgive others.

Refuse to hold grudges. When you do wrong, ask for forgiveness. When you are wronged, readily offer forgiveness which is sincere and complete. 


Pray for forgiveness.

Pray the Divine Mercy chaplet. Pray the Fatima prayer. Pray the Our Father. Pray the prayer of Jesus from the Cross (Luke 23:34).


Commute sentences.

Convince judges to commute sentences. If you are a judge, be lenient in your sentencing. If you must take an offender to court for the sake of justice, plead for lower charges and commuted sentences.


Solve grievances.

Whenever possible, solve your grievances with community members out of court. Drop charges against those who offend you, or recommend lighter sentences. Practice mercy whenever possible. Strive for peace. Take no joy in the punishment of other human persons.