Thread by @casualthomist, Ok let's talk because this is a significant problem that I'm seeing [...]

Ok let's talk because this is a significant problem that I'm seeing across the board (a thread)

Let's learn a little bit from one of the first lessons (and one of the hardest to learn) about formational correction. If any of you are seminarians or former seminarians like me then you'll know about fraternal correction

As I see men correcting women and vice versa I will hence be referring to it as formational correction. Now the first thing that should be stated is that correction DONE IN CHARITY is always a good thing but the expression of that charitable correction changes on the situation

If a problem is prevalent there is no wrong in offering correction to help your brother or sister return to the mark but there are things that must be established

1. Make sure that there is some pre-established relationship specifically on Twitter make sure that you are at least mutuals this is the first "do not pass go" sin is personal it comes from a woundedness if there isn't a connection to a person then its best not to get involved

2. Now if you meet the first requirement is met then you can begin a gentle correction, i.e. NOT PUBLIC! never ever bring correction to the public forum until it is absolutely necessary

3. Now when actually correcting establish an attitude of gentle charity if you need to be more aggressive understand that you'll need a better relationship with the person, it's an equivalent ratio

4. No one here reading this is an idiot, USE COMMON SENSE! If you wouldn't say it to them in person then don't say it over Twitter and if you wouldn't say it (or use a particularly colorful vocabulary) in the presence of Christ then that's a good sign to not say it

Assuming you follow all these steps then your formational correction will not only be more effective (although not 100%) but will also lead to less division and separation (one of satan's favorite tools)

Now there are two fine lines that must be addressed

1. Apologetics
Defending the faith from external criticisms and heresy is not the same thing as formational correction, by its nature it is necessary to be public in most cases but also it isn't (or shouldn't be) a personal correction but rather

The defense of the faith from false beliefs, teachings, and misconceptions.

2. Criticism of public figures
Now when it comes to the Criticism of public figures (think Bishop Barron, Dr. Taylor Marshall etc.) The first step it important to remember however respectful and intellectual criticisms are perfectly acceptable on the public forum

As long as the statements were themselves are public and not privately shared and the criticism isn't an attack on the person but rather the stance the person takes. This is the finest line and requires the most prudence and charity in some cases

A few final remarks firstly this isn't calling anyone out specifically this thread was made because I noticed a general trend that I think needs to be addressed secondly I know this is the internet and me writing this probably won't do anything

But I still feel this had to be addressed we are called by Christ to be perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect, this is a command not a suggestion from our Lord I know I fail constantly but that doesn't mean we should forget this call nor should we hesitate to

Remind ourselves that the commandment given is so demanding

Also remember that seeing sin can naturally lead someone to anger and your anger in that situation can be just but sometimes the virtuous and kind thing to do is not necessarily the thing that feels the most satisfying to you when your angry, in fact it might feel the opposite

Finally just remember 2 things, the salvation of souls is paramount and that the greatest of these is charity please just stop with spite and condescension please from me personally please just no more.

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