Certainly, it is difficult to make the demands of the Gospel understandable to secularized people. But this pastoral difficulty must not lead to compromises with the truth.
“What is perfection in love? Love your enemies in such a way that you would desire to make them your brothers … For so did He love, Who hanging on the Cross, said ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.’” (Luke 23:34)
“If you believe what you like in the Gospels, and reject what you don’t like, it is not the Gospel you believe, but yourself.”
Assuredly, the word of truth can be painful and uncomfortable. But it is the way to holiness, to peace, and to inner freedom. A pastoral approach which truly wants to help the people concerned must always be grounded in the truth. In the end, only the truth can be pastoral.
A civilization inspired by a consumerist, anti-birth mentality is not and cannot ever be a civilization of love.
Ever the gentleman, it is interesting how Edward Pentin introduces an addendum to his own site to an interview with Fr. Weinandy published at the National Catholic Register :
His complete yet brief remarks could not fit into the piece, so I publish them here in full:
Courtship is hard work and the dating scene is a minefield. A dude on the Internet gives us tips on how to Find a Girlfriend Or Pick the Perfect Wife- The Wife Zone Chart.
Distinctions Matter
Distinctions Matter Forward
Missale Romanum
Pre-1951 Calendar