Forgiveness is not a result of our efforts, but is a gift. It is a gift of the Holy Spirit who showers us with mercy and grace that pours forth unceasingly from the open heart of Christ crucified and risen.
Christianity is not a new philosophy or new morality. We are Christians only if we encounter Christ. . . Only in this personal relationship with Christ, only in this encounter with the Risen One do we really become Christians. . . Therefore, let us pray to the Lord to enlighten us, so that, in our world, he will grant us the encounter with his presence, and thus give us a lively faith, an open heart, and great charity for all, capable of renewing the world.