Fraternal Correction

09-06-2026Pastor's LetterFather Wilson

Dear Parishioners,

In our Gospel for today, Jesus reminds us of something crucial and fundamental: we are all brothers and sisters. We do not show our love for our neighbor by kind, praising words alone, but also, when necessary, with words of encouragement or even correction.

We are all responsible for one another. If we truly are brothers and sisters, we cannot act as if we had nothing to do with one another. It is often so easy to just criticize each other instead of helping each other to live like Christians by our good example. What most helps people to follow Christ is seeing others living out their faith, hope, and love.

Jesus teaches us the importance of correcting our neighbor at the right time. In the first reading, the Lord urges the prophet Ezekiel not to be silent, because his silence would make him responsible for the ruin of his people. God made him a “watchman” among his people, so that he would sound the alarm when necessary and remind them not to stray from the ways of God. What is the use of a watchman who does not sound the alarm? What is the point of a guard dog that does not bark at strangers? But no one is a stranger to a Christian: he should feel responsible for the well-being of all. “If your brother sins, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother.” Since we are responsible for our brothers and sisters, we must be willing to enter into their lives, whenever we can help – but always with love.

We are all brothers, sons of the same Father. Today’s gospel begins with these words: “If your brother…” This is the key for how we should behave with others: not indifferent, not superior, but as brothers. Yes, we should correct our brothers and sisters with love: just as a father is not always silent but speaks to his children and encourages them and sometimes scolds them; as a teacher is with his students; as a friend is to a friend. Christ knew when to correct his disciples – especially Peter – with delicacy and vigor and so help them grow as Christians.

Finally, may we not forget that when we are the ones who receive words of correction, we must react well. At the time, it hurts when others must tell us that something is not right, but later we see that it helps us to improve. Others often know our defects much better than we do. With the help of God, and with our own sincere effort to help one another, we will feel more and more like brothers and sisters each day.

All the best…in Christ.