7th Sunday in Ordinary Time (February 19, 2023)

We all know of Catholics, some of whom may be in our own families, who go to Mass, identify as Catholics, but disagree, often vociferously, with much of the Church’s teaching on the sanctity of human life.
While it may be tempting to gleefully quote St. Paul, “If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy that person”, we must remember to live charity at all times and in all circumstances. The Lord reminds us that “though you may have to reprove your fellow citizen, do not incur sin because of him.”
As disciples of Christ, we must never treat anyone badly. Being truly Pro-life means much more than being merely orthodox or relying on our zeal.
Let us remember, as the Psalmist says, that “The Lord is kind and merciful.” We must correct the person in error with kindness, so as to help him and sanctify him.
Ultimately, it will be our meekness, understanding, patience, and readiness to forgive that will convert our adversaries to the Culture of Life.

That all unborn children, the elderly, and the disadvantaged, will be accepted as part of God’s family, we pray to the Lord...