Christianity - 3.1.2.2 Practices: working for reconciliation

The idea

Reconciliation is the process of restoring harmony after relationships have broken down. For Christians, working for reconciliation is a central duty, reflecting the belief that Jesus' death reconciled humanity with God. Christians are called to emulate this by forgiving others and resolving conflicts, guided by biblical teachings such as Matthew 5:23-24, which urges believers to reconcile with others before offering gifts to God. In practice, this involves both personal forgiveness and organised efforts to heal divided communities. For example, the Corrymeela Community in Northern Ireland brings together people from different backgrounds to build trust and peace. Similarly, the Community of the Cross of Nails works globally to promote peace and heal the wounds of war, demonstrating that reconciliation is an active, ongoing commitment.

What earns the marks

• Define reconciliation as the restoration of broken relationships and the active promotion of peace.
• Explain the theological basis: Jesus' atonement reconciled humanity with God, setting an example for Christians to follow.
• Provide a biblical reference, such as Jesus teaching followers to reconcile with their brothers before worshipping God.
• Give a concrete example of a Christian organisation working for reconciliation, such as the Corrymeela Community or the Coventry Cathedral Cross of Nails.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Confusing reconciliation with simply saying sorry.

  Put it right: Explain that reconciliation requires active effort to rebuild trust and restore the relationship.

• Assuming reconciliation only applies to global conflicts.

  Put it right: State that it applies equally to personal relationships and community disputes.

• Failing to link the practice to Christian beliefs.

  Put it right: Connect the action of reconciliation to Jesus' teachings on forgiveness or the concept of atonement.

Exam tips

• Use the Corrymeela Community as a specific case study to illustrate how Christians work for reconciliation in divided societies.
• Link the concept of reconciliation to the sacrament of penance and reconciliation in Catholic and Orthodox traditions.
• When evaluating the importance of reconciliation, contrast it with the consequences of holding grudges or seeking revenge.