Facing the Truth
The unique motivation of South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission to "turn its back on revenge" and to create a space where the deeper process "of forgiveness, confession, repentance, reparation, and reconciliation can take place" has, at its heart, the sentiment of certain faith communities within the nation. In this most candid of studies, we have the historical notes that formed that difficult process, which was and continues to be a struggle of theological and philosophical import within the faith communities. The writers gathered here look at this complex matter from many perspectives but all seek to reinvigorate the religious discourses about truth and reconciliation, suggesting new ways of understanding, and new configurations. The book includes extracts of verbatim testimonies of faith communities to the TRC.
The unique desire of South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) to turn its back on revenge and to create a space where deeper processes of "forgiveness, confession, repentance, reparation, and reconciliation can take place" reflects the spirit of some churches and faith communities in South Africa.