Dear Friends,
The gospel this Sunday puts us in the middle of a discussion about how to help those who are doing wrong. Jesus gives us a process to follow. As a part of learning that process, I think it might be wise to have a discussion about “civil discourse” or the type of language we use when we are disagreeing with our brothers and sisters.
I have often been amused when I have seen televised discussions from England’s House of Commons taking place. They are often seen shouting things at one another to such a degree that I wonder where common ground could ever be found. We, in the United States, have not had such a history but are in times of strident political protest that includes a lot of harsh language, personal attacks, name calling, and even debased and profane terms. There are hateful tweets and angry monologues, harsh commentary on news networks, and interruptive press conferences and news interviews that sound more like a brawl than a debate. Perhaps our culture is changing, and we are becoming more like England in what we tolerate as acceptable in public discourse.
As Christians we have to ask, what does Scripture teach us in this regard. The biblical world was far less dainty about discourse than we have become. The Scriptures, including the New Testament, are filled with vigorous discourse. Jesus really “mixes it up” with his opponents—even calling them names. But the Scriptures also counsel charity and warn of unnecessarily angry speech.
Let me give you some examples of teaching from scripture:
Jesus said, “Anyone who says to his brother, “Raqa” is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, “You fool!” will be in danger of the fire of hell” (Matt 5:22).
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Eph 4:29).
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be (James 3:9-10).
But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips (Col 3:8).
Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother (Gal 6:1).
Those seem pretty clear. And yet, both Jesus and St. Paul give us a different example in their own conduct:
Jesus said, “You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good?” (Matthew 12:34) If you read the 23rd chapter of Matthew, Jesus really goes after them.
St. Paul writes, for such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve (2 Cor 11:11-14).
So, what can we conclude? The Scriptures give us two balancing reminders. First, that we should speak the truth in love, with both compassion and understanding. But it also shows us a time when people were less sensitive and anxious in the presence of disagreement. We can learn from both biblical traditions. The biblical formula seems to be clarity with charity, the truth with a balance of toughness and tenderness.
When it comes to politics, the Catholic Bishops of the United States are concerned about the growing discord between peoples and its impact on Catholic parishes. They have begun a campaign to bring civility back to political discourse. This is from the USCCB announcing the campaign:
As Catholics, we have a long tradition of engagement in the political process as a means of putting our faith into action. We are called to bring the best of ourselves and our faith to the public square—and yet today, many shy away from such involvement because our national and local conversations are filled with vitriol and harsh language, often directed at people themselves.
When personal attacks replace honest debate, no one wins. This kind of attack, no matter the reason, only serves to further divide our communities. As Catholics, we must model a better way. We invite you to join the Civilize It campaign by taking the pledge below as a way to promote civility, love our neighbors, and build community.
Civilize It is about making room in your heart for those with whom you disagree. We are called to recognize that each one of us is a beloved child of God and to respond in love to that reality. Civilize It is a non-partisan call to focus on the dignity of all people, even when we disagree, and to put faith in action by bearing witness to a better way forward.
I encourage you to go to the website and take their pledge!
Peace,
Fr. Damian