The Catechism in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz) Day 279: False Oaths (2025)
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Oct 6, 2025 Fr. Mike delves into the significance of respecting God's name in our oaths and speech. He explains the gravity of false oaths, linking them to our duty before God. The teachings of Jesus and Paul highlight when oaths are appropriate, alongside canonical limits governing their use. Fr. Mike stresses the importance of integrity and the courage needed to refuse illegitimate oaths, using Thomas More as an inspiring example. Ultimately, he encourages Christians to witness truth in their lives and words.
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Oaths Connect Speech To Divine Truth
- An oath invokes God as witness and pledges our own truthfulness.
- Calling God to witness a lie makes speech oppose the divine norm of truth.
Speech Either Mirrors Or Opposes God
- Human speech either conforms to God who is truth or opposes that truth.
- False oaths call on God to be witness to a lie and thus contradict God's nature.
Reserve Oaths For Grave, Legitimate Reasons
- Use discretion when invoking God's name and reserve oaths for serious, legitimate reasons.
- The Code of Canon Law limits oaths to truth, judgment, and justice contexts like court testimony.
