What constitutes a scandal, and what should be done about it?

[chrispat91]

A couple of weeks ago, I was involved in a discussion with a friend regarding a fellow parishioner. The individual I’m referring to is known to be divorced (at least once) and is rumored to be dating another parishioner who is married. At this point, it is just a rumor, and I consider it to be scandal. I know at one point, the individual was asked to step down from teaching CCD, presumably because of this, but is now involved with CCD again, and is giving out the Eucharist as an extraordinary minister. My friend argued that a rumor is not necessarily scandal, but I tend to believe that something like this should be addressed so not to damage the Church, or to blur any lines about what we believe. I’m wondering if I am over-reacting, or if this is something I should bring up to the priest. I’d love your (name removed by moderator)ut. Thanks!

 

[Fr.Charles_Grondin]

If someone actually knows something immoral is taking place then that person should address the situation with the parish priest. Otherwise all that appears to be happening is rash judgment, detraction, and calumny.

Catechism of the Catholic Church:

**2477 **Respect for the reputation of persons forbids every attitude and word likely to cause them unjust injury. He becomes guilty:

• of rash judgment who, even tacitly, assumes as true, without sufficient foundation, the moral fault of a neighbor;

• of *detraction *who, without objectively valid reason, discloses another’s faults and failings to persons who did not know them;

• of *calumny *who, by remarks contrary to the truth, harms the reputation of others and gives occasion for false judgments concerning them.