SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – The Lake Tahoe Community Presbyterian Church is holding a six-to-eight-week book study on The Art of Forgiving by Lewis B. Smedes, starting this Sunday, January 11. Learn about the journey of forgiveness – An invitation to healing and community growth, considering the embezzlement scandal at Lake Tahoe Community Presbyterian Church.
Forgiveness is often described as an act of love, a choice to embrace freedom over bitterness. Yet, for many, letting go of past hurts can seem impossible. Memories of pain inflicted by others linger in our minds, refusing to be erased or forgotten. The past, with all its wounds, cannot be deleted—no matter how much we wish it could. But while we cannot change what has happened, we can choose how we respond. The only true remedy for the pain that clings to our memories is forgiveness.
Why do so many of us allow yesterday’s hurts to shape our tomorrows? Resentment can become a heavy burden, coloring our relationships and robbing us of peace. As Pastor Greg Hughes shares in his upcoming sermon series, forgiveness is not a one-time decision but a healing journey. Each step—recognizing our pain, naming our wounds, and daring to release them into God’s hands—helps us let go of the bitterness that weighs us down.
Starting January 11th, the community is invited to embark on this journey together. Through a series of messages inspired by scripture and the wisdom of Lewis Smedes’ book, The Art of Forgiveness, we will explore what it means to forgive, why we are called to forgive, whom we forgive, and how forgiveness can transform our lives. Alongside these sermons, Life Groups will be forming to offer support, conversation, and encouragement as we reflect on the meaning of grace and healing.
If you have ever struggled with letting go, or if past wounds still shape your present, we invite you to join us. Together, we will seek the freedom that comes from forgiving, trusting God to help us do what we cannot do alone. Let’s choose kindness over anger and allow the love of Christ to heal our hearts.
Come be part of a community where forgiveness is not just a topic, but a lived experience. The journey may be slow, but each day we choose to let go, we make space for hope and renewal. Everyone is welcome—no matter where you are on the path. Join us as we discover the transformative power of forgiveness.
For more information, please contact Sally Wilke at 775-790-6441. Lewis Smedes’ book, The Art of Forgiveness, can be purchased at the church or on Amazon.
There are various times for small group discussions.
Choose one: Sunday 8:45 a.m. or 11:15 a.m., Wednesday 7 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.
All sessions will be held at Lake Tahoe Community Presbyterian Church, 2733 Lake Tahoe Blvd., South Lake Tahoe
