In a recent post in his blog (Whispers in the Loggia), Rocco Palmo comments on Cardinal Donald Wuerl’s efforts to encourage civility in public discourse:
Cardinal Wuerl, Archbishop of Washington, recently wrote a thoughtful commentary on this issue in the diocesan newspaper, Catholic Standard. Noting that “The preacher's pulpit, the politician's podium and the print and electronic media all bear some responsibility to encourage a far more civil, responsible and respectful approach to national debate and the discussion of issues in our country today,” Cardinal Wuerl stated “Increasingly, there is a tendency to disparage the name and reputation, the character and life, of a person because he or she holds a different position.”
He concluded his reflection by writing, “We need to look at how we engage in discourse and how we live out our commitment to be a people of profound respect for the truth and our right to express our thoughts, opinions, positions -- always in love. We who follow Christ must not only speak the truth but must do so in love (Eph 4:15). It is not enough that we know or believe something to be true. We must express that truth in charity with respect for others so that the bonds between us can be strengthened in building up the body of Christ.
“Freedom of speech and respect for others, freedom of expression and regard for the truth, should always be woven together. This should be true of everyone, whether they speak from a pulpit, a political platform, or through the electronic and print media and other means of social communications.”
To access Cardinal Wuerl’s complete commentary, please visit:
Cardinal Wuerl’s commentary was also reprinted in full in the Washington Post’s “On Faith” column’s “Guest Voices” segment on 2 February 2011:
Washington Post: On Faith: Guest Voces: Civil discourse: Speaking truth in love (2 FEB 11)
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