Slander, Calumny, and Detraction

Here is an old but excellent post by Father Jim Tucker about calumny and detraction. If we do nothing else, let us at least work on rooting out such bad habits. I have seen more friendships and relationships in church-related groups destroyed by gossip and slander, as well as unity in extended families. Catholics who are already beleaguered by the unbelieving world often find rejection in the Church due to some careless gossip. Be careful what you say about people, even if you know what you say is true. It is also not good to repeat and spread gossip. Only God knows all the details; only He knows both sides of the story. Those who share beliefs should support each other, not tear each other down.