For this reason, we begin every Mass with “Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy.” Sin alienates us from each other and God. Repentance is the path back to community. God tells the prophet Ezekiel that he must point out to the wicked their sins whether they choose to listen to him or not. It is clear that it is compassion for his people ~ not anger ~ that motivates God. God wants to be close to us and has taken extraordinary steps to make that happen. Nonetheless, our choice to be close to God is still necessary to “close the deal!” Repentance is a form of self-accusation. It is a path that does not come natural to us because our pride insists we excuse not accuse ourselves! Jesus says, “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone, if he listens you have won over your brother.” Gossiping about others' faults and never speaking to the individual at fault is a sin not only against the individual but against the whole community. Refusal to repent of wrongdoing is also a sin against the community. The world says “the truth hurts.” Christians say, “The truth will make you free.” Truth, at times, may indict you; other times, it will vindicate you. In either case, it must be embraced if we are to move forward as a Christian Community.