Credible witnesses

Fr. Livio Tonello, director

In recent months I have come across significant texts, catchphrases, spiritual commentaries. Some people are skilled in writing and speaking, capable of intercepting emotions and unexpressed questions. In a few lines, they can find effective words to describe, stimulate, nourish, touching the strings of sensitivity. But is this enough? The liturgy, for example, gives us words and gestures full of meaning which, however, if they are relegated to the rite, are ends in themselves. The value of words, of signs, of emotions, should be performing. That is, capable of provoking changes, actions, lifestyles. It is not difficult to believe (especially when you are in church). It is difficult to be credible when you pass by the street. The gentleness and strength of the Christian message can be fascinating, but the latter requires a vital translation. Pedagogy teaches us that educational effectiveness is achieved when facts are combined with teaching. Better: when the behaviours, the choices, the lifestyle of those who accompany us in our growth are the visible translation of the values that inhabit their hearts. What good are advice, calls, rules if they are not followed by a coherent life? The credibility of the Christian is the first form…