On March 28, 2010, Kate and Andy Grosmaire’s lives were tragically altered when their 19-year-old daughter, Ann, was shot by her boyfriend, Conor. The young man had been a part of the Grosmaires’ lives for a few years and had even lived with them for a while.
Ann initially survived the shooting, giving her family, friends, and Roman Catholic church community time to say goodbye. When Ann died, Conor was charged with first-degree murder. Through God’s grace, the Grosmaires refused to define Conor by the horrific crime he had committed. They chose to forgive him, visit him in prison, and meet with his parents.
When a friend introduced them to the practice of restorative justice, the Grosmaires pursued it vigorously, though they had to overcome many obstacles. Today, they still have contact with Conor. Kate Grosmaire has become an educator about restorative justice.
This personal glimpse into one family’s deep sorrow reveals the power of both forgiveness and restorative justice, defining what each is and what each is not. (Thomas Nelson)
About the Author
Sonya VanderVeen Feddema is a freelance writer and a member of Covenant CRC in St. Catharines, Ontario.