Film of forgiveness inspires Midvale parishioners


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MIDVALE — St. James Episcopal Church hosted a special screening for a documentary film Sunday, highlighting compelling stories of reconciliation between victims and perpetrators across the world.

The film, "Beyond Right and Wrong: Stories of Justice and Forgiveness," examines stories from large-scale conflicts like the 1994 Rwanda genocide, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and upheaval in Northern Ireland.

The screening was held in conjunction with a non-profit group called FilmRaise, an "innovative platform where social-impact films can garner an audience of like-minded people," according to group member Chanta'l Babcock.

By May 20, the group hopes to garner 1 million unique views for the film. Each of which will represent a monetary donation to supporting charities.

While traveling and presenting the film, Babcock said she's found that many people tend to "shy away" when the topic of forgiveness is brought up.


People hear forgiveness and they automatically think Christianity. Yes, Christianity and religions play a part in that, but forgiveness is non-denominational, non-biased. It's a simple human choice that we can make to move forward, one that liberates us.

–Chanta'l Babcock


"People hear forgiveness and they automatically think Christianity," she said. "Yes, Christianity and religions play a part in that, but forgiveness is non-denominational, non-biased. It's a simple human choice that we can make to move forward, one that liberates us."

Babcock hopes the film will help to "de-mystify" the myths about forgiveness, one of which is that forgiveness is the same as reconciliation.

"Forgiveness, in my mind, is really one-sided," she said. "Reconciliation is the coming together of both parties. Forgiveness is very much a step in the right direction toward reconciliation."

Following the screening, the church held a panel discussion with parish members who discussed their unique experiences with forgiveness in society.

Panel member Sharon Stetz, who works for a hospice company and volunteers as a chaplain for the Salt Lake City Police Department, says forgiveness is about how we view others.

"We should be mindful every single day; look at every person you come in contact with as a human being," she said.

Parish member Terry Palmer, who coordinated the screening, says she was deeply moved by the film and wanted to share its message.

"I'm still processing it; it's just so impactful," she said. "You see these people who not only forgave, but are spreading the word of not seeking revenge. It was a good message."

One such instance includes Jo Berry, the daughter of British politician Sir Anthony Berry, who was killed by the Irish Republican Army in the Brighton Hotel bombing in 1984. Jo Berry meets and talks with her father's killer, Patrick Magee, and both discuss how they are striving for reconciliation.

As Babcock shares the film around the country, she says she's been impressed by its depth and complexity.

"It's a very heavy film, but hopefully it's very empowering and inspiring," she said.

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