Reconciliation theology

[1] The term differs from the conventional theological understanding of reconciliation, but likewise emphasises themes of justice, truth, forgiveness and repentance.

"[3] A number of theologians have developed this theological concept, such as Irenaeus (115–202), Tertullian (160–220), Augustine of Hippo (324–430), Martin Luther (1483–1546), John Calvin (1509–64), Albrecht Ritschl (1822–89), Karl Barth (1886–1968), Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906–45) and Gustavo Gutiérrez (1928).

[6] De Gruchy notes that the issue of reconciliation needs to include the understanding of "covenant and creation, sin and guilt, grace and forgiveness, the reign of God's justice and human hope",[7] all of which could have political significance.

Joseph Liechty and Cecelia Clegg present in their study Moving Beyond Sectarianism that a true understanding of reconciliation has to deal with "the interlocking dynamics of forgiveness, repentance, truth, and justice.

"[11] Archbishop Desmond Tutu, the chairman of the TRC, demonstrates in No Future without Forgiveness the connection between telling the truth and social justice.

[6][12] The public storytelling for those cruelly silenced for so long, and remembering the cruelties of the past can restore an individual's human dignity and bring healing for the nation.

[14] Kim Dae-Jung, a committed Catholic, professes his belief in the saving power of Jesus Christ in his personal life and testifies to his conviction of the ultimate triumph of justice.