Judgment, Truth, and the Courage to Speak - Fr. Chris Alar | 3/2/26

The readings for this homily: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/030226.cfm

Father Chris Alar, MIC, reminds us that Jesus’ warning, “Judge not, lest you be judged” applies to condemning persons, not discerning sin. He explains that while an act may be objectively grave — abortion, theft, or any violation of God’s moral law — we often lack full knowledge of the person’s heart and circumstances, so we must address the action, not label the individual.

Father Chris warns against the cultural tide of relativism that blurs objective truth. He points to the Equality Act, describing it as a legislative effort that would force churches, schools, and hospitals to abandon the Church’s teaching on marriage, gender, and the sanctity of life. He calls this “a wolf in sheep’s clothing,” urging believers to stand firm on the truth revealed by Scripture and the Magisterium.

Balancing mercy with truth, he cites Augustine: “Love the sinner, hate the sin.” True mercy involves lovingly correcting the errant behavior that endangers souls, not excusing it. He stresses that the Church’s works of mercy include admonishing sinners, protecting the vulnerable, and upholding the dignity of every human person while defending the objective moral order.