When the Church faces slander, doctrinal corruption, and disorder, truth must be defended clearly—but confession, worship, and justice must also begin in the heart. Athanasius records the judgment of the Council of Sardica, which declared him and other falsely accused bishops innocent, condemned those who had seized their churches, and called bishops throughout the world to stand together against Arianism. Augustine explains why he confesses to a God who already knows everything: not to inform God, but to awaken love in himself and in those who read. Aquinas then shows how the Ten Commandments form the basic structure of justice, teaching us to give God, parents, and neighbor what is properly due to them. Together, these readings show that truth must be defended publicly, confessed personally, and practiced justly.

Today’s Readings: ...