Truth and judgment of the free conscience
Judgement
Conscience is a judgment of reason, by which the person recognizes the moral quality of a concrete act and the truth concerning the good accomplished and evil committed, to take responsibility on one’s own performed actions.
Being capable of relationships, free initiative and sense of responsibility, the person grows in humanity cooperating with knowledge and love.
Since goods are intended for all and should be promoted for each one, the principle of solidarity prefers the poor and it is accompanied by the principle of subsidiarity, so that the poor as well can become a builder of a more humane future for everyone, «because we are all responsible for all»[1].
Deep-rooted negligence or vices lead the will to misapply principles, till the point of considering good a free and fully responsible commitment in an evil action, even with no passion or with unconscious deception; therefore, the possibility of truly doing good is linked to a continued education of the conscience.
Consciences were shaken, induced to conversion and confession, when the proclamation of universal judgment so penetrated with the intimation: «Remember that in the end you, yourself, will stay afore God with all your life, that afore His court you will bear responsibility for all your deeds, thoughts and words».
The incitement «don’t be afraid!» calls the wisdom to free us from the fear of one’s own self, of the world, and from the servile fear of God.
Never destructive, the true fear of God is creative and guides with responsible love.
[1] Compendio della Dottrina Sociale della Chiesa 2005, n.149.