The Gospel today introduces to us an important component in helping others grow in holiness. It is a practice known as fraternal correction. Pope Benedict XVI commented on fraternal correction in his Angelus message in September of 2011:
“The Gospel text from chapter 18 of Matthew on the life of the Christian community tells us that brotherly love also involves a sense of mutual responsibility. For this reason if my brother commits a sin against me I must treat him charitably and first of all, speak to him privately, pointing out that what he has said or done is wrong. This approach is known as “fraternal correction”: it is not a reaction to the offence suffered but is motivated by love for one’s brethren.”
We offer these corrections not in a hurtful or mean-spirited manner. We offer them humbly and lovingly in order to help the other grow in the spiritual life. By correcting the faults of others, we are communicating to them that we love them and desire to help them to be a saint. Also, if you receive a fraternal correction, do so with love and humility. We all need help in answering the call to be a saint!
Faithfully Yours in Christ,
Fr. Wayne