Fr. Jerry Pokorsky: The Elusive Spirit of Forgiveness

By Fr. Jerry Pokorsky, Catholic Culture, April 01, 2024

Fr. Jerry Pokorsky is a priest of the Diocese of Arlington who has also served as a financial administrator in the Diocese of Lincoln. Trained in business and accounting, he also holds a Master of Divinity and a Master’s in moral theology. Father Pokorsky co-founded both CREDO and Adoremus, two organizations deeply engaged in authentic liturgical renewal. He writes regularly for a number of Catholic websites and magazines.

A world-weary practicing Catholic who suffered the slings and arrows that come with living a long life once remarked, “The trouble with Christianity is that you must forgive too many enemies.” As we age, it is unnerving to admit honestly, “Show me the man, and I’ll tell you what I don’t like about him.” The spirit of Christian forgiveness is mysterious and elusive.

At every Mass, we pray before receiving Communion, “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” The petition reinforces Jesus’ entire teaching on forgiveness. “If you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” (Mt. 5:23-24) …

Continue reading >>>>>>>