L. William Countryman is a retired professor of New Testament from Church Divinity School of the Pacific. He has authored numerous books for scholars and laity, including How Can Anyone Read the Bible?: A Little Book of Guidance,Calling on the Spirit in Unsettling Times, and Living on the Border of the Holy: Renewing the Priesthood of All. He lives in Berkeley, California.

"Countryman's lively style and his lucid insights into the nature of forgiveness make this a must read for clergy, laity, and general readers."--Publishers Weekly"In this fine book, Countryman sheds light on ‘the gracious and generous project of redeeming the world through the spread of forgiveness.'"--Values Visions"Combining excellent theology, theory, and practical pastoral suggestions, Countryman explores the concept of forgiveness. Basing his work less on a step-by-step process and more on the concept of conversion, or change of perspective, the author helps readers understand what it means to know God's forgiveness first in their own lives and how that knowledge leads to forgiveness of ourselves and others. The writing is biblically based with solid academic research behind the ideas, making it helpful for clergy, but written in a conversational tone that will be appealing to laity and church study groups."--ChurchNews"The joy of Forgiven and Forgiving is the way in which Countryman leads us to take the life and message of Jesus seriously--joyfully seriously!--by reminding us of what we knew all along, that God begins by creating something good and breathing life into it."--Pacific Church News"In a world as fractious and broken as ours, this book is a much needed and welcome gift...When Countryman begins to unfold his text, one steps back with a deep sense of appreciation and admiration for how thoroughly comprehensive this little book is on this topic. This is a wonderful book...The depths of insight are worthy of many dips into the hands of everyone who is struggling to be a follower of God who sent his Son to reconcile us--and then make us his ambassadors of reconciliation."--Sisters Today"...pastoral theology at its best...beneficial tools for a priest and pastor to use in counseling and for any parish to use in an adult forum situation."--Jeffrey Allen Mackey, Sewanee Theological Review"This is a wise book about tough forgiveness--real forgiveness--that comes from God's love. At once practical and challenging, Countryman's insights help us to understand how knowing and sharing forgiveness as a way of life open us up to the future and bring strength and maturity to life's pilgrimage."--The Rt. Rev. Frederick H. Borsch, Bishop of Los Angeles"Forgiven and Forgiving appears on the scene at a time of some of the most contentious events in the Church and in society. Countryman opens up a whole new perspective on the meaning of forgiveness. As the author points out, forgiveness is an act full of power and true life-changing potential, not a superficial gesture of 'making nice.' If we could read this insightful book with an open mind and a determination to take its theology to heart, we would be much better off in our relationships with one another."--Pamela Chinnis, President, House of Deputies, The General Convention of The Episcopal Church"Biblically based with sound academic research, yet written in a conversational style, the book offers valuable insights for clergy, laity, and church study groups."--East Tennessee Episcopalian