Preach: The Catholic Homilies Podcast

Reading the woman caught in adultery in John’s Gospel: A Latina theologian on sin

Mar 31, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Amirah Orozco, a doctoral student in systematic theology at Notre Dame, dives deep into the story of the woman caught in adultery. She explores the theme of sin from both personal and societal perspectives. Amirah emphasizes the need to address the actions of those who judge rather than solely focusing on the woman's guilt. Drawing on liberation theologies, she highlights the transformative power of mercy and challenges listeners to rethink how they interpret scripture concerning women's experiences. A thought-provoking narrative that intertwines faith, feminism, and social justice.
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INSIGHT

Sin of Men and Mercy

  • This passage on the woman caught in adultery is as much about the sin of the men as it is about the woman herself.
  • Jesus' intervention highlights God's mercy reacting seriously to sin and violence, inviting us to bring mercy and forgiveness.
ANECDOTE

Violence Against Women Anecdote

  • Amirah recounts the fear and violence women face, linking the gospel passage to real contemporary cases like Dr. Christine Blasey Ford's testimony.
  • The passage invites reflection on social sin and the need for social forgiveness and mercy in society.
INSIGHT

Jesus Writing as Pause for Reflection

  • Jesus writing in the sand buys time for the men to self-reflect and realize their own sinfulness.
  • This is the moment when the men begin to see their own violence and sin, leading them to walk away without condemning the woman.
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