Quote of the day, 23 August: Silvio José Báez, O.C.D.

Defending human dignity and denouncing injustice, which are an essential part of the Church’s evangelizing work, almost always bring threats and persecution from those in power, which are aimed at Her. In those threatening moments, the Church — in the image of Jesus — remains fearless and faithful to God with unwavering trust, without bowing down to any worldly power, without bargaining away the truth or being anxious about losing Her privileges in society.

Even during times of suffering, when the Church sees that many people are distancing themselves and attacking Her, the Church never experiences the bitterness of resentment or the evil power of revenge; She always acts with gentleness and mercy, never forsaking charity but practicing forgiveness that knows no limits. The only force that sustains the life and mission of the Church is the promise of Jesus, which history has never denied: “look, I am with you always; yes, to the end of time” (Mt 28:20).

Silvio José Báez, O.C.D.

Auxiliary Bishop of Managua
Homily, 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time (excerpt)
22 August 2021

Translation from the Spanish text is the blogger’s own work product and may not be reproduced without permission.

Featured image: On 8 November 2019, streets in Santiago de Chile erupted in flames during violent protests at Catholic churches. In this photo, an officer helps to restore order in the street and remove a damaged statue from the parish patrimony, which protesters had destroyed. Statues, pews, altar furnishings, and even an organ console were among the items that were dragged into the street — in some cases, even burned — to create barricades and inhibit police access. Photo credit: ©erlucho/123RF.COM