Teaching · 1 November 2026
Week One: The Christian Duty to Speak the Truth
The first week of the November catechesis, “Truth vs. Propaganda: The Battle for the Mind”: gossip, fake news and propaganda, and how a Christian should speak and share.
1. Introduction
Peace begins in our minds and hearts and is reflected in our words and actions. One of the greatest threats to peace, especially during periods of conflict and insecurity, is the misuse of information and communication. Gossip, rumours, fake news, insults and false accusations create suspicion, destroy relationships and endanger lives. As Christians, we are called to defend the truth, protect the dignity of others and use our words to promote reconciliation and peace.
2. What are gossip, fake news and propaganda?
Gossip: Spreading personal information about others unnecessarily, often with the intention or effect of damaging their reputation. Fake News: False or misleading information presented as genuine news. Propaganda: Information deliberately manipulated or selectively presented to influence people’s opinions, often by appealing to fear, prejudice or hatred. Targeting Neighbours: Monitoring, exposing, threatening, humiliating or intimidating people because of their opinions, relationships or perceived affiliations. These practices are particularly dangerous during times of conflict because they can provoke fear, hatred, suspicion and even violence.
3. What do the Bible and the Church teach?
Jesus declares, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). St. Paul urges us, “Do away with all lying, then; speak the truth to one another” (Ephesians 4:25). The Letter of St. James (3:5–10) reminds us that the tongue, though small, can cause great destruction. The Church, through the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2477–2479), condemns rash judgement, detraction and calumny. We must respect the good name and reputation of every person. Therefore, we must not spread information we have not verified. We must not use social media to blackmail, threaten or humiliate others. We must not circulate private information to damage people’s reputations. We must not turn political, social or personal disagreements into hatred and persecution. We must not encourage revenge or violence. This does not mean concealing injustice. Genuine wrongdoing should be reported responsibly through appropriate channels, without public intimidation or unfounded accusations.
4. Practical Christian responsibilities
Before speaking, commenting or forwarding a message, ask yourself: Is it true? Have I verified the information? Is it necessary? Does sharing it serve a legitimate purpose? Is it charitable? Does it respect the dignity of others? Does it promote peace or create division? Let us remember: Not everything we hear should be believed; not everything we know should be revealed; and not everything we can say should be said.
5. SCC discussion
Reflect together on the following questions: How common are gossip, rumours and fake news in our families and communities? What damage do unverified messages and malicious social media posts cause? Why do some people use information to threaten, intimidate or discredit others? How can our SCCs promote truth, responsible communication and peace?
Practical Situation: Someone forwards a WhatsApp voice note accusing a neighbour of collaborating with an armed group, without providing any reliable evidence. What should a Christian do? Expected response: Do not forward or endorse the allegation. Avoid public accusations and intimidation. Verify genuine concerns through responsible channels and protect the dignity and safety of everyone concerned.
6. Weekly Christian resolution
As Christians, let us commit ourselves to the following: Reject gossip, rumours and unverified information. Refuse internet blackmail, threats and online harassment. Respect the privacy and dignity of our neighbours. Correct false information that we have circulated. Use our words and social media platforms to promote truth, forgiveness and peace.
Our Resolution: “I will not be an instrument of rumours, hatred or division. I will speak the truth in love, protect the dignity of my neighbour and use my words to build peace.”
7. Closing prayer
Lord Jesus, you are the Way, the Truth and the Life. Enlighten our minds and purify our hearts. Forgive us for the times we have used our words to hurt others, spread rumours or destroy reputations. Help us to reject lies, hatred and revenge. Teach us to speak the truth in love, respect the dignity of every person and become instruments of reconciliation and peace. Mary, Queen of Peace, pray for us. Amen.