FAITH MATTERS
Growing incivility? A sad sign of the unfaithful times
Notices in public places telling us to be polite indicate growing anger in society. A solution is a return to religion.
March 15, 2025
By Bishop Gerard Bergie
Contributing Columnist
I have noticed a growing number of notices being posted in public spaces where employees and staff interact with the public.
The ones I have seen basically have the following points — the business or service organization states it is committed to providing a safe environment and this includes treating everyone with respect and dignity. It is stated clearly that physical violence, threatening behaviour and abusive language are not tolerated.
Some statements give more examples and others give less. The common sentiment is people should be treated with respect and belligerent behaviour will not be tolerated.
Why do we need signs in public places to tell us not to be rude, aggressive or threatening? Is there a reason for the growing incivility in our society?
In order to address this sad situation, people who have exhibited this type of behaviour are often sent to anger-management programs. It is hoped they will be given the tools to deal with their issues.
Although this can be beneficial, it often only deals with a symptom rather than the cause of the problem. What is causing the increased number of angry people in our world?
There is no simple answer; however, could one reason be that a growing number of people are turning away from God and rejecting their faith?
Many of us have heard of the golden rule, “do unto others as you would have them do to you.” It can be found in many of the major faiths of the world. For Christians it can be found in the Gospel of Matthew. (7:12)
If everyone believed this statement and tried to follow it, things would improve. Most people do not want to be mistreated. This maxim provides a general principle of good behaviour.
In another part of the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is very specific about this issue. He states: “You have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, ‘You shall not murder,’ and ‘whoever murders shall be liable to judgment.’ But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister, you will be liable to judgment; and if you insult a brother or sister, you will be liable to the council; and if you say, ‘You fool,’ you will be liable to the hell of fire.” (Matthew 5:21-22)
These are extremely powerful words coming from Jesus. We know where he stands on this question. How we treat one another is extremely important to him.
Just because we have not committed murder does not mean all our actions are defensible. We can still harm someone by our angry words or gestures. We all have experienced this personally.
A remedy to destructive anger is interior peace. When I am at peace with myself, then it becomes easier to be at peace with others. We become more patient and slower to anger. There is no question in my mind that at this present moment, the world needs peace.
Jesus states, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives.” (John 14:27)
What does the world give us? Many reasons to be angry. What does Jesus offer us? Reasons to be at peace. The greatest source of that peace is the fact that we are loved beyond our imagining. We need not be afraid because God is with us.
Make an effort to have faith and be at peace. If this happens, then maybe there will be more respect in the world and fewer public notices telling us how to behave toward one another.