No judgement without trial
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III addressed a well-known ecclesial principle: “No judgment without trial”, and explained that the trial is meant to know the truth, relieve conscience, and give the accused the opportunity to defend himself.
When immediate judgment is permitted (the exception)
He clarified that an important exception is the state of being caught in the act — when a person is caught in a clear wrongful act (insulting, beating, desecrating the sacred, disrupting worship), a prompt decision may be taken without prolonged fuss or trial, except if the matter requires identifying accomplices or instigators.
Biblical evidence and practical applications
He cited verses and examples from the Holy Scripture (the teachings of the Apostle Paul, examples of the Lord Jesus cleansing the temple, the case of Ananias and Sapphira and God’s judgment) to justify the necessity of decisive action when the sin is manifest.
Balancing justice, mercy, and pastoral care
The Pope stated that judgment requires wisdom: one must distinguish between clear cases and matters that require confidential or public investigation and the opportunity for repentance and confession. He noted that the priest or head of the clergy decides whether the trial is secret or public and whether to grant a chance to repent.
Purpose of discipline and its communal effect
He mentioned that the aim of discipline is not revenge but to protect the Church’s dignity and to instill fear in the remaining members so they do not fall into sin, because leaving the sinner unaccountable may make him a bad example that harms the community.
Right of appeal and safeguards
He indicated that anyone who feels wronged may appeal the decision to a higher authority within the Church’s order, which ensures a measured and just ruling when the matter is unclear.
Spiritual conclusion
The conclusion is that the Church calls for justice based on clarity of truth and opportunities for repentance, balancing decisive action when one is caught in the act and mercy when matters need investigation — all for the salvation of souls and the protection of the holiness of God’s house.
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