Pastor's Message
September 6, 2026
Twenty-third Sunday of Ordinary Time
Matthew 18:15–20 — Fraternal Correction
Fraternal correction is one of the cornerstones of the Christian faith. Although correction is personal, it is never merely a private matter; it always has a community dimension.
From this, we can draw some important consequences: we
cannot think, speak, or act as if our thoughts, our words, and our actions were exclusively “my business” or “my problem.” For better or for worse, the conduct of one person affects everyone.
Jesus reminds us in today’s Gospel that we have a responsibility toward one another. When we see someone going in the wrong direction, Christian love calls us not to ignore it, but to approach
that person with charity, humility, and concern.
Fraternal correction is not about judging or condemning another person. It is about helping one another grow in holiness and return to the right path. At the same time, we must be humble enough to accept correction when someone lovingly points out our own mistakes.
Our words and actions always have an effect on others. A kind word can encourage someone; a hurtful word can discourage. A good example can inspire others; a bad example can lead others
away from God.
That is why Jesus says, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” We are not Christians alone. We belong to a community, and what each
of us does contributes to the life of that community.
May we learn to correct one another with love, receive correction with humility, and always seek what is good for one another and for the whole community.
In Christ,
Fr. Robin