As someone who is working hard to keep boundaries firm, I find this an encouraging post. It’s astounding, however, how often people will try to use the Scriptures as a battering ram to break down boundaries. “That’s not what Jesus would do” and “Jesus said to forgive”, and the like. Clearly St Catherine forgave Frate Simone. But forgiveness doesn’t mean the offender is allowed back into your life or trust. That requires recognition of the evil done, repentance, accountability and true conversion. And the one offended gets to decide if and when the conditions are met. The Sacrament of Penance is the model for this.
As someone who is working hard to keep boundaries firm, I find this an encouraging post. It’s astounding, however, how often people will try to use the Scriptures as a battering ram to break down boundaries. “That’s not what Jesus would do” and “Jesus said to forgive”, and the like. Clearly St Catherine forgave Frate Simone. But forgiveness doesn’t mean the offender is allowed back into your life or trust. That requires recognition of the evil done, repentance, accountability and true conversion. And the one offended gets to decide if and when the conditions are met. The Sacrament of Penance is the model for this.