In a time when shifting cultural trends and moral relativism threaten to obscure moral truth, Christians are called to stand firm in righteousness. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that moral decision-making must be grounded in truth and guided by a well-formed conscience (CCC 1786–1789). This formation requires vigilance: prayer, study, and a devoted commitment to virtue. Among these virtues, fortitude – sometimes referred to as moral courage – empowers us to reject compromise and remain faithful to Christ (CCC 1808).
Modern society often insists that morality is subjective and shaped by personal preferences or cultural norms. This view gradually erodes our confidence in Christian moral truth, leaving many hesitant to take a stand for fear of criticism or isolation. When such confusion prevails, silence can be a form of complicity. Yet Christ calls us to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13–16): to preserve what is good and illuminate darkness with truth. As Catholics, we must remember that moral truth is not the product of public opinion; it is revealed by God. While human laws and social standards may shift, the commandments of God remain constant. The Catechism reminds us that in challenging moral circumstances, we are to seek the good and reject evil, turning to reason, prayer, and the Church’s teachings for guidance (CCC 1787–1788). Moral courage does not merely involve taking a stand; it involves standing in truth, even when that stand is unpopular or personally difficult.
True moral courage is not reckless or self-righteous; it is rooted in trust in God. In Joshua 1:9, the Lord instructs, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” This assurance reminds us that we are never alone in our moral struggles – God strengthens those who remain faithful to Him. Christians who display moral courage do so only through grace rather than by their own power. From the earliest martyrs to believers persecuted in our own day, we see the same willingness to endure rejection, suffering, and even death rather than betray the truth. Their example shows that moral courage can be costly, yet the reward is enduring.
Although fortitude requires firmness, it must be accompanied by love and charity. In Matthew 5:37, Jesus teaches, “Let your ‘Yes’ mean ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ mean ‘No.’ Anything more is from the evil one.” This directness calls for honesty and integrity – not merely abstaining from falsehood but being unwavering in our convictions. At the same time, we must speak truth gently, not with anger or condemnation (Ephesians 4:15). Moral courage is not about dominating a debate but about guiding souls to Christ; it’s a response in love to bring others to Christ.
In a culture that demands conformity, believers will likely face misunderstandings, rejection, or even persecution for upholding what is right. The world may label us intolerant for maintaining objective moral standards. Still, we recall Christ’s own warning: “If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first” (John 15:18); it is the cross we bare in loving others in truth. As such, we must stand firm, discerning right from wrong with the help of prayer and the Church’s teaching. God does not abandon those who place their trust in Him; He provides the strength we need to remain steadfast.
Will we uphold the dignity of life, and the sanctity of marriage, speak for the marginalized, and be faithful to the call to witnesses? Will we witness in our workplaces, friendships, civic duties, and family situations? The light of truth ought to illuminate every nook and cranny of our lives. May we answer that call, drawing ever closer to God, who stands beside us in every trial.
Jeremy Lezniak – SFA Theologians Guild Member