Rabbi Lerner to get Forgiveness Award

Rabbi Michael Lerner, founder and editor of Berkeley-based Tikkun magazine, will be honored as a Champion of Forgiveness at the 14th annual International Forgiveness Day on Aug. 8.

Lerner, along with Champion of Forgiveness honorees Dr. Eileen Borris and Dr. Fred Luskin, will receive the award during a presentation beginning 7 p.m. at Dominican University’s Angelico Hall, 50 Acacia Ave., San Rafael. There is no cost, but donations will be accepted.

Lerner, 67, who was diagnosed with lung cancer last year, will be honored for his work as a leading advocate of forgiveness, nonviolence and peace. He often has been criticized for his progressive views and in the past has received death threats at this office. This past May, his residence in the Berkeley hills was vandalized.

Robert Plath, a Mill Valley attorney and executive director of the Worldwide Forgiveness Alliance, created International Forgiveness Day in 1996. The occasion is celebrated around the world, according to a statement released by the group.

For information, call (415) 381-3372.