We continue with the final footnote from the synod-concluding speech of Pope Francis. Looking at “FAMIGLIA,” or Italian for you-know-what word, we turn to what we seek to gain:
Gaining and humbly rebuilding trust in the Church, which has been gravely weakened as a result of the conduct and sins of her children – sadly, the counter-witness of scandals committed in the Church by some clerics have damaged her credibility and obscured the brightness of her saving message;
How is trust rebuilt? Patience is the quality the Holy Father doesn’t mention here. But humility permits a deeper and more respectful patience–not only for those offended, but also those scandalized by sinful behavior.
