In a sermon denouncing the corruption that blights the life of many people, especially the poor and the weak, and brings great disgrace to the Church, Pope Francis has quoted Jesus' rather extreme words from today's Gospel: "It would be better if anyone who leads astray one of these little ones were to be plunged into the sea with a great millstone around his neck". No doubt many people are shocked that Jesus should have used such extreme language. Extreme evil demands a rigorous and uncompromising stance on the part of those who assume a prophetic role on behalf of truth, justice and the wellbeing and happiness of the "little ones", the vast majority of the human race.

Many have grown rich through the misery and ill-treatment of the poor and the weak. No doubt there are those among such corrupt and criminal people who would wish that a millstone were put around Francis' neck and that he be cast into the sea. Let us take to heart the Pope's ministry of justice and support him with our prayers.