George Denise - Called to forgive: the charleston church shooting, a victims husband, and the path to healing and peace

Pastor Anthony Thompsons wife, Myra, was brutally murdered at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston along with eight others on June 17, 2015. The nation was shocked by this racially motivated hate crime. No one could have anticipated what would happen next. Pastor Thompson stood in front of the killer, forgave him, and then offered him the hope of the gospel in Jesus Christ. That moment, broadcast worldwide, inspired the entire city to act on grace rather than revenge and hatred. Called to Forgive offers the backstory, the heart-wrenching story, while celebrating and challenging the reader to experience the greatest force known to humanity, Gods grace. As his colleague and friend, I commend Pastor Thompson to you. Every word written herein is authenticated by his life. If you long to understand forgiveness, meet Anthony Thompson.

Marshall Blalock, pastor, First Baptist Church of Charleston; president, South Carolina Baptist Convention (2018)

Anthony Thompson has led the way in how to respond to those who wound and hurt us, even in the midst of awful tragedy. Called to Forgive inspires greater understanding in how to forgive as Christ has forgiven us (Ephesians 4:32) and how to be released from the slavery of unforgiveness.

Foley Beach, archbishop and primate, Anglican Church in North America

In a world where there is so much negative rhetoric, hatred, and division, the words contained in this book will inspire you to forgive, heal, and grow. I am truly thankful for Anthony and his willingness to be open with his pain, struggles, and road to forgiveness. His testimony will change your life!

Eric S.C. Manning, pastor, Mother Emanuel AME Church, Charleston, South Carolina

In June 2015 I experienced two most unthinkable acts. The first was the killing of nine devout church members at Bible study, based solely on their race by a hateful bigot. Then just two days later, devastated family members showing an extreme act of grace by telling the murderer they forgive him. This beautiful book encourages and challenges the reader to see the powerful and healing act of forgiveness in the face of hate.

Joseph P. Riley Jr., former mayor of Charleston, South Carolina

A powerful, compelling story of forgiveness. Rev. Thompson was prepared, ready for Gods call. Through this amazing example of Gods compassion and forgiveness, the citizens of Charleston will forever affirm that Love Is Stronger Than Hate. Thank you, Rev. Thompsonwe love you!

John Tecklenburg, mayor of Charleston, South Carolina

Part memoir, part guidebook for the soul, Called to Forgive tells the deeper story of Rev. Anthony Thompsons decision to publicly forgive his wifes murderer. Full of empathy and deep wisdom, Thompson explains the complexities behind his decision to forgive and the power it exerts in his life. This is a story that can change the world.

Marjory Wentworth, coauthor, We Are Charleston: Tragedy and Triumph at Mother Emanuel