Part 2:

 I think that offers another prism through which to understand the church’s ministry to sinners: advocating for them, looking for the best possible outcome for them, the one that aligns best with the priorities of the Gospel: Love and Mercy.  It is not for nothing that Jesus promised to send us the Holy Spirit, the Paraclete -- our Advocate; and we participate in the life of the Spirit when we act as advocates for sinners, looking for every conceivable way to heal and help them, showing them the Love and Mercy that are the hallmarks of the Christian life. (cont'd.)