"Would you like me to list the paths of repentance? They are condemnation of your own sins, forgiveness o our neighbor's sins against us, prayer, almsgiving and humility." St. John Chrysostom

These five paths of repentance are found in the Scriptures in various places. Repentance is the first stage on our journey to eternal salvation. Repentance is our response to the grace of God and all that God has done for us, the greatest act was the death and resurrection of Jesus for our salvation. Without this fundamental step, we cannot enter into the Kingdom of God. God has forgiven our sins. We must repent of them and strive not to sin. Because God has forgiven our sins freely, we must forgive those who have sinned against us, as a sign of our gratitude. When we grow in our relationship with God through prayer, we are putting first things first. In forgiving us God shows the depth of his love. Providing for the needs of others acknowledges God's providential care for us. The greater is our repentance, the more we realize and embrace who we are in relationship to God.