More than support: consolatio fratrum as a means of Grace in the practice of forgiveness
Essay written for the 2026 Winterim Course More than support: consolatio fratrum as a means of Grace in the practice of forgiveness Contemporary discussions of forgiveness often focus on the primary task of reconciliation as resolution of an interpersonal trespass between an offender and an offended party. Kaldas’ take on forgiveness in “A strange new philosophy of Forgiveness” has its main focus on addressing the individual perspective of the process of forgiveness particularly self-esteem and affirmation of the victim’s value. [1] Yet Dr. Rockenbach’s research on the lived experience of laypeople who have forgiven an interpersonal transgression offers insights to push back against such reduction. As one sees the importance participants placed in the shared congregational spaces, it points to an important theological interpretation: the lived experience of forgiveness does not occur on a purely individual basis, but benefits in a fundamental wa...
