“Forgiving is not forgetting”: Catholic Bishop in São Tomé Says Resentment Must Not Define Christian Relationships

In brief

Bishop João de Ceita Nazaré of the Catholic Diocese of São Tomé e Príncipe urged Christians to use forgiveness to heal wounds within families, pastoral communities, and society. During a homily on September 13 at Santa Cruz de Angolares Parish, the bishop warned that resentment from injustice, humiliation, abandonment, and accumulated offenses can cause division and broken relationships.

Bishop Nazaré spoke during a celebration for the 10th anniversary of the local community's foundation. He stated that forgiving does not mean forgetting and cautioned against keeping painful experiences in one's heart. He noted that wounds often lead to revolt and estrangement among family members and citizens.

The bishop explained that these conflicts stem from more than just individual disputes. He said social and political issues, such as migration, healthcare difficulties, and poor living conditions, contribute to the social, political, and family wounds facing São Tomé and Príncipe.