This work is a meditation on the integral mystery of forgiveness as both impossible to achieve and yet necessary for salvation. We must forgive, yet we cannot. Through themes of loss, sin, love, and virtue in literature, art, poetry, and theology, Caitlin Smith Gilson shows us how the need for forgiveness is a universal longing that directs us to the very hope for eternal life. At the core of forgiveness resides the heart of Christ who alone can complete what is lacking in us yet so desired. In Christ, forgiveness becomes the impossible possibility.

Caitlin Smith Gilson is professor of philosophy, St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary, Florida, and visiting professor of philosophy at Pontificia Università della Santa Croce, in Rome, Italy. She is associate editor of The New Ressourcement Journal through Word on Fire Academic.



Carol Scott is professor emeritus of art at University of Holy Cross. She is a gallery artist at Gallery 600 Julia in the prestigious Arts District of New Orleans, special artist at THE BUILDING Art Venue & Gallery.