Instead of giving up candy for Lent, what if I gave up a grudge?
Forgiveness is difficult. Studies suggest nearly 70% of people are holding a grudge against someone they know—often a family member, coworker, fellow parishioner, or longtime friend. The causes are many: infidelity, abuse, addiction, politics, deep disagreements, or old wounds that never healed. Chuck Jansen of the Forgiveness Institute of Kansas City (KC) notes that in a parish of 3,000 families, about half include at least one broken family relationship where people are no longer speaking. This is not just a church problem; it is a human one.
Jesus came to forgive sins and commands us to forgive one another, yet forgiveness is rarely quick or easy. It is often a journey. Recognizing this need in all our lives, Father Mark has arranged a facilitated program from the Forgiveness Institute of KC. During Lent 2026 at St. Gall, this practical and prayerful material will help each of us give up at least one grudge through both communal and individual opportunities.
