Washington’s Cardinal Donald Wuerl published a column in his archdiocese’s newspaper on the importance of truth and love in Christian discourse. Speaking to the importance of presenting truth, through a lens of charity, in all our discourse, the newly elevated Cardinal writes:

We are called to a higher level of respect for the truth and for each other than is often witnessed on some radio and television talk shows. The intensity of one’s opinion is not the same as the truth. Speaking out of anger does not justify falsehood. Frustration or disappointment does not condone a lack of charity. The Catechism reminds us, “respect for the reputation of persons forbids every attitude and word likely to cause them unjust injury” and calls “rash judgment,” “detraction” and “calumny” offenses against truth (2477).

Wuerl’s comments certainly apply to a broad range of media, and perhaps bloggers, and the concomitant commenting classes, would do well to pay special attention. Read the entire piece here.

Michael J. O’Loughlin is national correspondent at America and author of Hidden Mercy: AIDS, Catholics, and the Untold Stories of Compassion in the Face of Fear.