AUGUST/September 2013

ASK A PRIEST
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS


FATHER WILLIAM G. MENZEL
FATHER KEVIN BATES, SM
FATHER AMARO SAUMELL
CATHOLICVIEW STAFF
PRIEST STAFF



FATHER WILLIAM G. MENZEL

"I have an ongoing urge to sometimes dress up
 like a lady in private.  Am I sinning?" - Ted


Father Bill:

I'm a man who has had an ongoing urge to sometimes dress up like a lady in private.  I just like to imitate women because I have always admired them, it is NOT anything sexual at all.   Deuteronomy calls dressing differently an abomination.  Am I sinning? – Ted

 ____________________________________

Dear Ted:

First, let's take a look at the biblical reference you make in your question. It comes from Deuteronomy 22:5 (this and the quotations that follow are from the New American Bible):

A woman shall not wear a man’s garment, nor shall a man put on a woman’s clothing; for anyone who does such things is an abomination to the LORD, your God.

Now let's look at the verses that follow:

If, while walking along, you come across a bird’s nest with young birds or eggs in it, in any tree or on the ground, and the mother bird is sitting on them, you shall not take away the mother bird along with her brood.

You must let the mother go, taking only her brood, in order that you shall prosper and have a long life.

When you build a new house, put a parapet around the roof, so that you do not bring bloodguilt upon your house if someone falls off.

You shall not sow your vineyard with two different kinds of seed, or else its produce shall become forfeit, both the crop you have sown and the yield of the vineyard.

You shall not plow with an ox and a donkey harnessed together.

You shall not wear cloth made from wool and linen woven together.

You shall put tassels on the four corners of the cloak that you wrap around yourself.

Many of the precepts in Deuteronomy are intended to define culture rather than morality. They are ways of legislating common sense, social order, and appropriate behavior. As you can see, the precepts cited above do not really fit into the cultural and moral context of our own time.

As far as I know, the Catholic Church teaches little or nothing about the morality (sinfulness) of cross-dressing (transvestism). I could find nothing about it in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. For some who practice it, it might be an indication of a gender identity issue or fetish, which may have some moral implications, but from what you say, this apparently is not the case with you.

I have always found it somewhat mysterious that our American culture finds it generally acceptable—even cute or alluring or business-like—when women dress in men's clothing, but often recoils when men dress in women's clothing.

I have to admit that I do not understand why men would want to dress in women's clothes—in public or private. Neither do I understand, however, why anyone would say that it is sinful to do so. Yes, it would be sinful if one did it to deceive, for sexual gratification or for other nefarious purposes. But for a man to wear women's clothes because it makes him feel good seems pretty harmless to me.  - Father Bill

 
"Why does God give a bountiful harvest than strike you
down with an incurable disease?" - Marie


Father Bill:

Why does God give you what I call a bountiful harvest; career, husband, home and child and then strike you down with an incurable disease that takes all of those away.  How do you keep your faith and hope? – Marie

 ________________________________

Dear Marie,

Whether what you described happens to us personally, or whether it happens to someone we know or love, it can leave us in tearful wonder at the sometimes cruel vagaries of life. To that part of your question I have no answer except Ecclesiastes, the Book of Job and the cross of Jesus. These two books of the Bible and the suffering of Jesus do not supply the answer, but they do probe the question.

The truth is that we are not guaranteed a bountiful harvest in this life. There are so many in our world whose lives are little more than constant misery and hard work. Poverty, war, disease, uncaring rulers, economic injustices, along with many other factors, all play a role in making life anything but a bountiful harvest for so many of our brothers and sisters in this world.

Those of us who have had a bountiful harvest are most fortunate and much blessed. However, it is always a good idea to keep in mind that everything in this life is transitory. That includes both the good and the bad. St. Paul says, “...what is seen is transitory, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:18) His insight is that nothing in this life is eternal, aside from our soul and our life with God. He constantly preached the long vision that sees beyond this life, placing our faith in God and our hope in his promises.

I hope that I'm not sounding too harsh, but this is indeed the reality, and it does touch on the next part of your question: “How do you keep your faith and hope?” To this there is no one-size-fits-all answer. For some it is a lonely search—but it doesn't really have to be so.

In his book “When Bad Things Happen to Good People” (available from Amazon and in many libraries) Rabbi Harold Kushner tells of a terrible thing that happened in his family. He describes their struggle and how they came to find faith and hope in the midst of their tragedy. I would highly recommend that you read this book. I would remind you, however, that you as a Christian have a huge advantage that Rabbi Kushner does not have. You believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, and you believe that his sufferings and death have meaning and that his resurrection is eternal. As God-with-us, Jesus is God's way of letting us know that he understands our joys and our sorrows and walks with us through the ups and downs of life.

Marie, there is nothing easy in your questions, nor is there anything easy in the answers, whatever they may be. There should be no guilt in questioning God. Even Jesus did that in the garden and on the cross. Health crises and broken dreams are ample reason to cry out, “Why, God!” Sometimes the answers will come to us here. Sometimes we won't know them until he embraces us after we leave the shadows of this life and are surrounded by the light of eternity. - Father Bill

 


FATHER KEVIN BATES, SM

"A former bully of mine committed suicide in June.
What prayers should I say for him?" - Megan


 

Father Kevin:

A former bully of mine committed suicide in June. I forgive this man for the past.  What prayers do you suggest I say for him? – Megan

_____________________________________________

HI Megan:

I think a good wordless prayer in your heart where you entrust this person into the arms of God’s mercy Who alone knows the heart of each one of us would be one suggestion.

Every Blessing. -  Father Kevin


"I was Catholic but now Agnostic.  How should I conduct
myself when attending Catholic occasions? - Deirdre

Father Kevin:

I was raised Catholic but am now agnostic. How should I conduct myself at wedding mass, funeral, or other occasion in which I am invited to a mass?  I was raised to know all of the prayers and rituals, but am not sure if it is disrespectful to participate in them knowing I no longer believe in it.  I'd like to conduct myself in the most respectful manner possible. Thank you! – Deirdre

 _______________________________

HI Deirdre:

In Hamlet, Polonius counsels his son to be true to himself above all.   Jesus would sure agree with him.  I suggest you listen to your own heart and then respond accordingly.  The Mass is not a show but a gathering of people of faith who wish to express their faith together. In their midst, others are welcome to join them and to participate in whatever way is appropriate for them.  In other words, in our liturgy everyone is welcome, whatever they believe.  There are no “musts” in terms of how to behave.

As an agnostic, your doubts would be central to your heart.  I hope you get to resolve them one day.

Every blessing. - Father Kevin


"We married at age 17.  We never had children. 
Are we married in the eyes of the Church?"
- Barbara

 

Father Kevin:

My husband and I were both raised as Catholics. We were married in the Catholic Church. We married very young I was 17 and my husband was 18. We have been married for 41 years. Because of our young age and circumstances we did not have children at that point, later on due to severe illness I never had children. Does this mean we are not married in the eyes of the Church?

 ___________________________________

Dear Barbara:

So long as you had an intention of being open to the possibility of children at some point, your marriage would be regarded as valid in the Catholic Church.

Every blessing,  - Father Kevin



 PRIEST STAFF

"Our retired Priest says Mass but reads the wrong gospel for
the given Sunday. Should we ignore this?"  - Jean
 
 


CatholicView Priest Staff:

We have a retired priest saying Mass.  He usually (about 9 times out of 10) reads the wrong Gospel for the given
Sunday.  Should we ignore, or attend a different Mass?  (No clear options for a basically reverent Mass.) - Jean

 __________________________________

Jean:

I certainly can understand your frustration about the readings of that particular Sunday not being read!  Yet, at the same time, the Lectionary in which the readings are contained can be confusing if one is not careful.  As you know, if you went to Mass everyday for three years, you would have heard almost the whole bible proclaimed at Mass.  The whole Lectionary is split into a three year cycle, A, B, and C.  In the Lectionary, the readings for all three cycles are placed one after another.  So, the lector, deacon and priest must pay attention to make sure that the readings are from the appointed cycle.  Your retired priest probably reads the first gospel listed which is from cycle A, not the cycle that is assigned. 

I am surprised that someone doesn't help him read the correct cycle gospel.  I have the pleasure and privilege of working with a retired priest in my parish.  I make sure that our parish deacon serves with him to make sure that the gospel reading is done according to the Church liturgical calendar. 

I am honored to have this retired priest with us.  He has served the church for 60 years.  Sometimes he can get lost but there is always someone to help him at Mass.  Remember, priests must say Mass regularly, and must say Mass on Sundays and Holy Days.  Your retired priest must say his Sunday Mass.  Even though the gospel reading may not be the one assigned to that particular Sunday, the Mass is valid.  The change in the gospel may be God's way of speaking his message and word to you and to others in that particular congregation at that particular time. 

Instead of being frustrated and upset, listen to the word of God in the gospel that is read.  It is the words of Jesus Himself.  There is a message for you and those around you.  Your question is not exactly one I would ask.  Instead, I would say to myself, "What is this gospel saying to me and my situation?"  And if I am concerned about this mistake of reading the wrong gospel reading, then how can I help this holy and wonderful priest who has given his all for the Church and for you to read the correct one?  If you are still bothered by this mistake, please talk to your pastor and OFFER your service to the retired priest. 

Offer to make sure that the assigned gospel is easily accessible to this particular priest.  It sounds like that there is no one helping him at your "basically reverent Mass."  I am sure that your priest would enjoy having someone helping him especially when it comes to navigating the Lectionary (once you look at the Lectionary, you'll understand what I am saying).  I know that the retired priest residing with me in the rectory is filled with wisdom and experience that has helped me in my own pastoral ministry.  

Please, no more complaining and no more personal frustration.  Accept all in thanksgiving and if you feel called by the Lord, offer to help and assist your retired priest at Mass.  This will certainly make your Eucharistic communal prayer even deeper and more fulfilling.  There is no need to attend a different Mass.  Also remember, that each Mass no matter if the elements of liturgical rubics are a little off is an encounter with the physical presence of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.  In the end, that is all that matters.   God bless you.  - CatholicView Priest Staff    

 
"Is smoking cigarettes considered suicide?" - Jeremiah

 

CatholicView Priest Staff:

My question is about a bad habit I picked up, "Smoking". Most of the US population understands smoking kills. Heart failure, strokes, cancer, etc.. CDC reports 43 million people currently smoke in the US alone. There are numerous scripture passages which of course condemn killing.  So is smoking considered suicide (murder)?  After mass in Texas the Altar Boys (even a soon to be priest) would gather outside for a smoke. I was never able to get a real answer.  In fact it caused arguments.  What are your thoughts?  Thank you in advance.   -  Jeremiah

 ___________________________________

Jeremiah:

 I am reminded of talking to a lady who was 102 years old, healthy, her mind clear and her intelligence sharp.  And she smokes like a chimney and drinks a glass of whiskey every day.  At the same time, I have a friend who was in the best of health, never smoked anything, exercised every day and died at the age of 33 from a heart attack. 

In regards to smoking tobacco,  this is not considered a slow suicide or even considered a moral equivalent to murder.  It is just an action that can turn into an addiction.  Addiction is a burden and a cross and ties a person to slavery to material things that can stand in the way of a spiritual union with God.  And most addictions have a consequence in maintaining one's health.  But one has to have the full intention of killing one's self for smoking to be considered sinful, breaking one's relationship with God and others in the Church.  Most things around me can take a toll on my physical and spiritual health. 

Eventually, I will held accountable by God Himself for everything I have done in my life.  But smoking is not considered suicide or murder.  Smoking is a neutral act, neither good nor bad.  It becomes good or bad according to the intentions of that particular person.  The people I met that smoke tobacco do not have any intention of committing suicide.  So, no intention...no sin. 

Since you have asked this question because you are a smoker yourself, I would encourage you to fix yourself before trying to fix everyone around you.  If you feel that your addiction is an immoral act for you, then fix it.  Find help to break your slavery to smoking.  And stop judging others.  Only after you have overcome this addiction can you help others to break their slavery to smoking.  Hope this helps.  - CatholicView Priest Staff

 
"I have a lot of hatred towards God for the mental abuse
He let me suffer.  Will he ever give me justice?" - Mark

 

CatholicView Priest Staff:

I have a lot of hatred and anger towards God for the emotional and mental abuse He let me suffer at the hands of my parents.  I keep praying for Him to take it away and to heal me of the bitterness and depression, but I don't feel like He listens at all. Will God ever give me justice? - Mark

 ________________________________

Mark:

God does His work of healing and reconciliation when a person has opened his heart to God's power.  I am sorry to hear that your parents treated you so badly.  You have certainly been wounded, and those emotional and spiritual wounds are festering, making your present life miserable. 

As long as you hold on to these negative emotions, as long as you are unwilling to forgive your parents, God cannot work in your life because by holding on to these negative issues you are closing yourself off to God.  You want God to fix your pain.  Let Him do so.  Give Him everything.  Let go of the past.  The past doesn't exist anymore.  The present is all that is real.  As long as you continue to keep memory of it, you continue to live in the past.  And living in the past is an exercise that doesn't have any value for you at this time in your life. 

Forgiveness is one of the greatest teachings of the Christian way of life.  Without it, life would become a living hell.  Forgiveness doesn't mean to give license to another to do what they want.  Forgiveness is my personal ability to leave the past behind and live in the present and hope for a better future.  It is time for you to discuss your past life with someone like a priest or counselor so that you can forgive each painful chapter of your life.  And God's justice is not revenge or getting back.  God's justice is making things right in your life, not in anyone's else's life.  As long as you keep saying to God that you want "justice," your heart is closed to God's power and therefore you are blind to His power and healing presence in your life.  Talk to someone who can guide you to forgive your parents little at a time. 

Here is a prayer for you:

Lord, I am confused by so many things.  My emotional and spiritual pain overwhelms me and burdens me and there are times that I cannot get things done.  Lord, I know I am holding on to the past.  Help me to forgive the many episodes of emotional and mental abuse that I have suffered at the hands of my parents.  I want to open my heart to You alone.  Come into my heart.  My doors are open.  And send me your Holy Spirit to heal the pain and find someone who can listen and guide me to put the pieces of my life together.  I want to live!  And live in peace.  I claim that healing and peace in the name of Jesus.  Amen. 

God be with you.  - CatholicView Priest Staff


"I am Catholic and my fiancée is Pentecostal and wants
her pastor to marry us.  Would this be alright?" Tony


CatholicView Priest Staff:

I'm a Roman Catholic and my girlfriend is Pentecost Christian. She is extremely devoted to her faith and was baptized when she was 16. We both are now 26 and would like to get married. She would like her pastor to marry us and the ceremony would be exactly like a Roman Catholic wedding, is this still okay?  Thanks! - Tony

 _________________________________

Tony:

You mentioned that your fiancée is "extremely devoted to her faith."  I am concerned by this.  Are you not "extremely devoted to your Catholic faith?" 

I have found that inter-faith marriages have many obstacles to overcome, one of them being in which church are the children going to be baptized?  And how will they be raised in regards to their spiritual journey with Christ?  In the Catholic Church or the Pentecostal denomination that you mentioned? 

A wedding in the Pentecostal denomination is not the same as a Catholic sacramental marriage presided by a deacon or priest in your parish church.  The Pentecostal wedding cannot ever "be exactly like a Roman Catholic wedding."  Besides my own misgivings about your marriage to a non-Catholic, there is a way for your marriage to be recognized as a sacramental Catholic marriage.  Although being saddened by your decision to be married in her denomination (since I guess your Catholic faith is not as strong as her faith.....which I would hope would challenge you to live your Catholic faith better), you can have your marriage recognized by the church.  Please talk to your parish priest or deacon. 

You would prepare for your marriage in the Pentecostal denomination as you would prepare for your marriage in the Catholic Church.  A dispensation for getting married in another religious congregation (called Lack of Form) would be required from your diocese.  Then your marriage would be recognized in the Church and your marriage recorded in the parish register even though you would be married in her congregation.  And depending on your relationship with your parish clergy, your parish deacon or priest can also be present with the Pentecostal minister at your wedding if you wish.   May God bless you both.  - CatholicView Priest Staff  

 
"My neighbors throw rocks and spit on our cars.  Is
there a way to change their behavior?" - Gloria


 

CatholicView Priest Staff:

I have mean neighbors that throw rocks in our yard and spit on our cars. I come home to this and I get very angry and I wish harmful things unto them. I hate them very much, is there any way I can change my behavior or solve this problem between us?  Gloria

 __________________________________

Gloria:

Living the Christian way of life with nasty neighbors can be quite the challenge.  Jesus has commanded us to forgive 70 times 7 times:  (Matthew 18:21-22) Then Peter came and said to Him, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven times."   I do not know if you can speak with them in a calm tone about these issues.  If you have the strength to confront your neighbors, then do so.  If their behavior does not change, maybe you need to involve law enforcement to help you get this issue resolved.  If nothing works and nothing is resolved, work with what you have.  Try not to focus on the evil acts of your neighbors against you.  Instead, work around the acts.  And make the personal decision not to allow your neighbor's actions to destroy your peace and joy in the Lord.  When your neighbors can't get you excited and upset, they will probably stop their evil actions. 

Meanwhile, please say this little prayer:  "Father, in the name of Jesus, change my neighbors' hearts by the power of your Holy Spirit.  Help me not to respond in a negative way to their taunts."

May the peace of the Lord be with you.  - CatholicView Priest Staff  


"Is the Catholic Church a creation of Satan or
is it a gift from God?" - Juan
 
 

CatholicView Priest Staff:

Is the Catholic Church part of the new world order?   I have seen videos on YouTube explaining how there is sun worship, devil worship and freemasonry in the Vatican and in masses.  So I want to have a n official answer from a priest.  Is the Catholic Church a creation of Satan or is it a gift from God?  Please be completely honest with me.  Thank you.  -  Juan

 ________________________________

Juan:

The Catholic Church, founded by Jesus Christ on the foundation of the 12 apostles, is the keeper of the treasure of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior given freely for the past 2,000 years.  The Catholic Church is not part of any worldly order, new or old.  The Catholic Church is part of the Kingdom of God and is not of the devil.  These YouTube videos are the same old negative and hateful propaganda of those who hate the Catholic Church.  The makers of the YouTube propaganda are so hateful that their very words are coming from the devil himself.  The Catholic Church is the creation of Jesus Christ and is His body on earth (see I Corinthians, Chapter 12-13).   - CatholicView Priest Staff 

 
"Is it my place to correct those whose actions
are wrong?" - Tom
 

Good morning, Father:

I know we are not supposed to seek revenge or justice of that sort when dealing with people in this world. But what about other things like taking the Lord's name in vain or openly talking about disrespecting women sexually or arrogance and selfishness?

I deal with this on a regular basis with people close to me and I know they are good people just perhaps a little misguided at times. Is it even my place to correct them?

I'm far from perfect and understand we all make mistakes. I just want to help these people. Of course I will be praying for them but I don't want to overstep my bounds as a human by telling them I believe some of the actions are wrong. Doing my best to lead by example may not be enough. I just want to try to make a small difference in this world and help them.  Thank you for all your help and dedication.  -  Tom

 ________________________________

Tom:

Actually, "doing your best to lead by example" is enough in this situation.  You are doing God's Will by acting in the name of Jesus in everything you do.  Sometimes, in a work situation, Christians have to put up with the behavior of others who do not value our ethics or our faith.  Instead of coming off as "holier than thou," therefore judgmental and condemning, your actions speak louder than words.  When your fellow workers begin to talk a manner that is not Christ-like, just be silent.  Your silence will speak louder than anything else.  Soon, they will not speak like that around you.  You need patience but just keep your eyes on Jesus.  And do your job well.  And every day, say this little prayer, "Lord Jesus, help me be your presence today."   - CatholicView Priest Staff  

 
"Why are "Catholic" pro-abortion politicians given
communion?" - Brenda
 

 

CatholicView Priest Staff:

Why are "Catholic" pro-abortion politicians given communion?  When they speak out on their pro abortion beliefs, why are they not excommunicated?  There seems to be a double standard for the wealthy & the politically connected.  I am becoming uncomfortable in the church due to these facts. - Brenda

 ___________________________________

 Brenda:

You and I have no right, no place in God's plan, to judge anyone's intention or that person's motivation in regards to his or her faith in Jesus Christ.  The Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 7, Verses 1-5 is very important here in regards to all our relationships with others:  "Stop judging that you may not be judged.  For as you judge so will you be judged, and the measure with which you measure will be measured out to you."  I cannot judge what a politician or others are thinking or doing when they come for communion.  When a person comes to communion, I am required to administer the Eucharist without judgment unless the case is so notorious that it would case major scandal in the church.  I do not know everyone who comes to the altar of the Lord, and I am not privy to their moral intentions.  Many bishops have called Catholic politicians and others to task about their abortion views.  At the same time, I cannot judge anyone's relationship with Jesus as Lord and Savior.  And that's where we are as leaders in the Church.  There is no double standard regarding the wealthy and politically connected.  We are not in the position to judge.  We let God do that.   God bless you.  - CatholicView Priest Staff

 


"I have epilepsy.  Is it wrong to use the theory of Yin Yang
foods?"  - Cornelius

CatholicView Priest Staff:

I have had lots of trouble with my epilepsy (seizure condition) for the past 2 years; I came across a website ( http://www.drlwilson.com)

that claims to be able to help my condition using the theory of Yin Yang foods.   I'm not sure if this is Occult or not? If I'm only going on a diet why should I be concerned with the beliefs of the health practitioner? - Cornelius

 ___________________________________

Cornelius:

 Every culture has its medical and healing traditions.  In the West (the Americas and Europe), we have a specific medical tradition that seems to be based on empirical evidence.  In the East and in other countries, they have other medical traditions that have served them well for thousands of years.  Dr. Wilson's web site does not teach anything contrary to Christian teaching.  What it does do is mix Western and Eastern medicine and Asian philosophical thought into a so-called "nutritional balance science."  It seems to work for some and is based on ancient practices that have worked for many throughout human history.  This type of medical thought is not based on the occult nor is it some kind of craziness.  I have witnessed people not helped by Western medicine that have been helped by alternative medicine and by other types of medical traditions.  If you believe that the Asian/Korean thought of nutritional balance (yin-yang foods) might be good for you, then try it.  God works in many wondrous and varied ways.  May the Lord heal you and give your strength. - CatholicView Priest Staff: 


"I am a paranormal investigator.  Are there prayers or actions
I can use to compel the entity to name itself?" - Brent

 

                  
CatholicView Priest Staff:

I am a paranormal investigator and I have a question about a case I’m currently dealing with.  I consider my mission to be to determine if the activity being reported (usually in a private residence) is truly paranormal in nature, and if it is, to help the lost spirits move on into the Kingdom of God where they belong.  I command the spirits in the name of their creator, the one true God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, asking God to work through me as a vessel and asking the archangels Michael and Raphael to guide the wayward spirits to heaven.  I give all glory and credit to God since I am only a man, and a sinner at that.

This has proven very effective in the past, but I’ve been contacted about a case that, if the activity cannot be debunked, that may involve demonic obsession or oppression.  I have dealt with this before with prayers from the Roman Rite, holy water, bells, incense, blessed salt, and by the grace of God have been successful.  However, going into this new case I am somewhat trepidatious.  Are there any specific prayers or actions, and particular incenses you can recommend to compel the entity to name itself, and to drive these dark forces out of this family’s home? - Brent

 ___________________________________

Brent:

Your job is an interesting one and I am sure that you have seen many unexplainable events and things that would startle any one.  As a priest, I too, have experienced paranormal events in my ministry.  I must say that you are doing all the "right" things.  Always praise God in the Trinitarian formula (God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) and have an undistracted faith in God and His power to drive away all evil with prayer as you do.  All you need to drive evil away is the name of Jesus.  Incense and such things are really distractions to what you need to focus on:  the name of Jesus. 

May I also suggest that before you go into this situation, that you fast and pray for a day or more, focusing on the name of Jesus.  This is done before facing an evil entity, in accordance with the Gospel of Mark, Chapter 9, Verse 29:  Jesus said to them, "This kind can only come out through prayer," and the Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 17, Verse 21:  But this kind does not come out except  by prayer and fasting. 

Your work is a calling and a ministry.  Be at peace and be strong.  May the Lord bless you in your special ministry.  -  CatholicView Priest Staff

"
Can my dying Grandmother receive last rites from
a Priest if she is not Catholic?" - Tad

 


CatholicView Priest Staff:

Can my dying Grandmother receive last rites from a Priest if she is not Catholic? - Tad

 ___________________________________

Tad:

Please forgive the lateness of this reply.  I want you to know that I am so sorry to learn that your grandmother is dying.

Since your grandmother is not Catholic,  she normally would not be able to receive the Anointing of the Sick.  However, when a person is near death and cannot get hold of their own minister, a priest can administer the Anointing of the Sick if the person asks, believes, and has faith in the efficacy of that sacrament. 

The following Letter from James 5:16 in the New Testament tells us: "Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."   

Tad, call your local parish priest and explain what is happening.  Because of possible impending death, she would be able to receive the Anointing of the Sick.  This would take precedence over any and all sacramental canonical rules.  Your grandmother will not be turned away. 

May the Lord strengthen you during this sad time.  We will pray for you.  - CatholicView Priest Staff 


"Can my Stillborn have a Catholic funeral? - Andy

Priest Staff:

My wife had an abortion on medical advice; this is certainly not what we wanted to do. My question is, can my stillborn son have a Catholic funeral? – Andy

_____________________________________

Andy: I am saddened that you lost your stillborn son.  However, your stillborn son can and should receive a Catholic funeral.  Please talk to your parish priest or deacon immediately.  I am sorry to hear of the death of your son.  But please know that God knows everything, understands everything, and knows you did all that was possible.  Be at peace. -  CatholicView Priest Staff

 



CatholicView Staff

"If Jesus was a Jew, then why do we not follow
the same ways as He did? - Kyle

 

CatholicView Staff:

I was wondering why we do not follow the Jewish Religion. If Jesus was a Jew, then why do we not follow the same ways as He did. Thanks. - Kyle.

 _________________________________

Kyle:

Through Jesus' death and resurrection, Jesus fulfilled the Jewish Law and all its prescriptions and through Him, all those who believe in Him as Lord and Savior enter a New Covenant, leaving the Old Covenant of Moses and the Law behind.  Jesus came to His own people first and His people rejected Him. 

With the advent of St. Paul, non-Jews became grafted into the Tree of Life and became Christians and this new body of believers became the Church.  Since Jesus fulfilled the Old Covenant and established the New Covenant, all believers are no longer attached nor required to fulfill the Old Law.  We are people of the New Covenant in Jesus Christ but our religion is built on the Old Testament. 

When Jesus came He was a Jew in two ways:  He came as an ethnic Jew and a completed religious Jew.  He came down to the Jews for a very strong reason; to teach and give His chosen ones the gift of salvation as the promised Messiah.  He would teach His people and would pay for sin by dying on a cross.  And so, He came as the Son of God that was foretold all through the Old testament.  Please read the following:

Isaiah 53: 5-12 reads: "But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed.  We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.  He was oppressed and afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth; He was led like a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before its shearers is silent, so He did not open His mouth.  By oppression and judgment He was taken away.  Yet who of His generation protested?

For He was cut off from the land of the living; for the transgression of my people He was punished.   He was assigned a grave with the wicked,  and with the rich in his death, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in His mouth. 

Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush Him and cause Him to suffer, and though the Lord makes His life an offering for sin, He will see His offspring and prolong His days, and the will of the Lord will prosper in His hand.  After He has suffered, He will see the light of life and be satisfied; by His knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and He will bear their iniquities.   Therefore I will give Him a portion among the great, and He will divide the spoils with the strong, because He poured out His life unto death, and was numbered with the transgressors.  For He bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors." 

Jesus Christ came to fulfill the Jewish religion by coming as the Messiah that was promised to the Jewish People in the Old Testament, therefore completing the Jewish religion.  As said above, many turned away because they did not recognize Jesus as the Son of God that God sent to them.  Nor did they believe He was the Messiah.  Those who did accept Jesus became followers of Christ, therefore accepting and completing their Jewish religion. 

There were those who are ethically Jewish and those who are religiously Jews according to scripture.  What we are today as Christians are the completion of what Christ came to do.  Although most of us are not Jewish, we serve God in a full and completed form of Judaism.  And we who believe in Jesus are called Christians, and in our case, completed Catholics.  St. Paul refers to all Christians as being religiously Jewish inwardly, while non-Christian Jews are those who he refers to as being outwardly (ethnically) Jewish, and without the completion Jesus came to give all who believe in Him.

And so, Kyle, we do follow INWARDLY the Jewish faith because we follow Jesus Christ in a new and important way.  We are following our Savior Who died to give us eternal life.  Yes, our religion was built upon the Old Testament and lest we forget, God has promised His chosen people that He will never forget them and the day will come that they will know truth.  

http://www.catholic.com/quickquestions/christ-was-a-jew-so-why-dont-catholics-observe-judaism reads: Catholicism is the completion of the Jewish religion. Had all of the Jews of Jesus’ time accepted him as the Messiah and entered the Church, there would have continued to be one true religion.  But because Jesus of Nazareth was not accepted as the Messiah by the majority of the Jews of His time, a split occurred...... Judaism is an incomplete religion because it lacks recognition of the Messiah it anticipates.” 

I hope this helps you to understand how blessed we are to be completed Christians in Christ, having been grafted onto the Tree of Life.  - CatholicView Staff 


"I am going on a cruise and will not be able to attend
mass.  Please advise?" - Susan

 

CatholicView Staff:

I am going on a cruise, which involves a 4 hr flight the day before Sunday.  It starts on a Sunday and returns the next Sun.  My husband wants to stay at an airport hotel and take a cab to the docks. I don't see how I can get to Mass. Similar problem going home. Please advise me. - Susan

 ______________________________________

Susan:

We want to wish you a wonderful trip.  Our heavenly Father Who sees all, knows and understands that it would be impossible for you to get to a Catholic Church during this cruise.  In lieu of attending mass, you and your husband are required to spend at least an hour in quiet meditation, reading your bibles, and praying on this day.  This would be your special way of giving Almighty God that time in worship and to honor Him on the Sabbath.

Have a great trip and come back safely.  God bless you.  - CatholicView Staff 


"My friend tried to commit suicide several times.  How
must I tell her that God is a forgiving  God?" - Robyn



CatholicView Staff:

My friend attempted suicide a couple of times when she was younger and she feels that because she tried to deliberately commit a mortal sin repeatedly, she can't and doesn't deserve to be forgiven.  What can I say to her, especially supported by Catholic doctrine or bible verses, that would help her to see that God would be willing to forgive her?

 ___________________________________

Robyn:    

God is a loving and a forgiving God and He has a plan for your friend's life.  And Jesus Christ stands waiting with loving hands to give her forgiveness and peace.  He already knows that your friend is sorry and wants to be free of past sins for He can read the hearts of us all.  He wants her to know that He paid the full price for all sins over two thousand years ago.  So all your friend has to do is believe this through faith and accept this gift of forgiveness through confession and prayer.  Jesus wants her to move forward.

Here is what the bible tells us:

1 John 1:9
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
Acts 3:19
 "Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord"
 2 Corinthians 5:17
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he/she is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!"
Hebrews 10:17
"Then he adds: "Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more."
Daniel 9:9
"The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him."

Please tell your friend that we will be praying for her.  Give her this prayer and when she starts to doubt, tell her to say this simple prayer:

Dear God, forgive all my sins.  Please do not remember my past but see my tears of repentance.  Help me to move forward with the confidence of Your love. See my sorrow for the offenses I have committed against You. Help me to avoid all things that I have done wrong and I pray that You will love me always.  Send your Holy Spirit to give me strength to move away from all things that are wrong in Your eyes.  Let me remember that You gave me this life to honor and do Your Will so that one day I will spend an eternity with You.  I ask this using the mighty name of your Son, Jesus Christ.  AMEN 

Robyn, please keep praying for your friend.  May the Lord bless you for caring. -  CatholicView Staff


"I had an abortion.  How can I forgive myself?" - Beth


CatholicView Staff:

I am struggling to forgive myself for an abortion I had 23 years ago. The grief is overwhelming. I ask myself , how could I do such a thing ? I knew it was wrong, but I was 17 and stupid. How can you forgive yourself for murdering your own child?  How will I know if I do? - Beth

 ______________________________

Beth:

I am so sorry that you are suffering for your past.  Have you asked the Lord to forgive you?   If you have, then you must let go of this.  Know that Satan preys on those who have sinned, highlighting those sins every chance he can for he knows you are frightened and losing hope in your forgiveness.  Satan has allowed the déjà vu of abortion to play endlessly in your head, and you are afraid there is nothing you can do to restore yourself in God’s eyes. 

This is absolutely not true.

God knows the reality of human sin.  All sin is an offense to the perfect holiness of God.  BUT He made a way for us even though we may not deserve it.  He bought us the right to cleanse ourselves of our wrongdoing through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ.  All you have to do is ask for forgiveness of your sin and promise to repent.  He will forgive you, no matter how grave the offense, if you truly are sorry as CatholicView can see you are. 

Remember to pray steadily and quietly, listening to God’s voice when He speaks to your heart.  He will have an answer for you.  The litany of  “If only” that you lived with will be erased forever.  With God’s forgiveness, you can take back your past by finding the peace only the Lord can give.

Please read this article on forgiveness that is in CatholicView   "SEVENTY TIMES SEVEN"

May God bless you always.  - CatholicView Staff


"My nephew was baptized in a church that does not
believe in the Trinity.  Please help?" - Joyce
   
                                
                                                                 

CatholicView:

My nephew was baptized in a church that does not believe in the trinity.  He was only baptized in the name of God.   He needs to know if he has received the Holy Ghost or if he needs to be baptized again or what he needs to do.  Please help.  He hasn't slept in days worrying about this.  - Joyce

 ___________________________________

Joyce:

Thank you for writing in with the concern for your nephew who was recently baptized.

The
proper form of baptism is in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as Jesus designated in Matthew 28:18-19  "Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

Sadly some denominations do not accept Jesus as the Son of God.  But to deny Jesus would to deny the One Who died to give us the gift of eternity.  Without Him we cannot hope to see heaven because we, as sinners, are not worthy.  Jesus Christ made us worthy.  I do not know what denomination your son belongs to, but I do know that the Jehovah Witnesses is one denomination that does not believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

In the Trinity, there is God, our heavenly Father and our Creator, Jesus, the Son of God who paid for our sins through His death and resurrection, and God, the Holy Spirit, the vital gift that Jesus promised to all believers.  As Christians we are controlled and empowered by the Holy Spirit.  God sent the Holy Spirit to glorify Christ and lead believers into truth.  As Jesus left to return to heaven, He promised in John 14:16-17"And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you forever.  He is the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him.  But you know him for He lives with you and will be in you."  God, the Holy Spirit, is the third person of the Holy Trinity.  You see, God is a Triune God. 

Please use this link to read more on this matter:  Trinitarian Baptism | Catholic Answers .

Your nephew's baptism is not valid and therefore not accepted by the Catholic Church unless he was specifically baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  If your nephew wants to be a Catholic or a member of another Christian congregation, he must be baptized with the Trinitarian formula mentioned above.  If he becomes Catholic, he will need to be baptized according to the Trinitarian formula (Father, Son and Holy Spirit).  This can be done by his participation in the Rites of Christian Initiation for Adults.

Joyce, you might want to ask your parish priest to explain some of the above to your nephew.  Call and make an appointment.  God bless you greatly for wanting your nephew to see truth. - CatholicView Staff

 


"If a widow remarries, which husband will she
spend eternity with?" - Melissa


 

CatholicView Staff:

If a widow remarries and has 2 happy marriages with 2 good men, which one does she spend eternity with? - Melissa

 _________________________________ 

Melissa:

This is a very good question that many ask and it is one that is answered in Matthew 22:23-30:  "The same day Sadducees came to him, who say that there is no resurrection, and they asked him a question, saying, "Teacher, Moses said, `If a man dies having no children, his brother must marry the widow and raise up children for his brother.` Now there were seven brothers among us. The first married and died, and having no children left his wife to his brother. So too the second and third, down to the seventh. After them all, the woman died. In the resurrection, therefore, of the seven, whose wife will she be? For they all had her." But Jesus answered them, "You are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God. For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven."

Well, Melissa, there you have it.  Our earthly selves are not the same once we reach heaven.  We leave our human bodies and become eternal beings with sickness, death, and sorrow left behind.  Although we will know our families, recognize our husbands and wives as well, there will be no marital unions in heaven for we will be like the angels with no earthly desires because we will have no need of them.

Here's hoping this helps.  - CatholicView Staff


"My boyfriend and I are 22 years old.  When can
we travel alone?" - April


CatholicView Staff:

When will my boyfriend and I be old enough to travel alone? We are 22 and have been together for 2 years (known each other for 5). We are both mature and responsible,  having finished university with good grades,  always doing our chores, never gotten in trouble, or smoked or drink. (ps, we were planning to go camping for 2 nights). -April

 _________________________________

April:

Thank you for your question.  We are so thankful that you want to do the right thing.  Please know that the Lord sees your goodness. 

The main thing I want to impress is that you avoid the occasion of sin.  Would you be sharing living quarters together? To share sleeping arrangements would be opening yourselves to sin.  Avoid such arrangements.  Please consider making separate sleeping quarters.  

April, God is well pleased that you want to do the right thing.  Have a wonderful camping trip and return safely.  God bless you.  CatholicView Staff


"My father who is a Mason and his wife is an Eastern Star
 and they have both turned away from me and family. 
Does religion divide families? Betty

 

CatholicView Staff:

I have lots of pain due to my Father turning away from my family.  We have tried to apologize to them.  We are Catholics and he is Masonic and my step mom is an Eastern Star.  Does this divide families? - Betty

 _______________________________

Dear Betty:

I am so sorry to hear that your father and your stepmother have turned away from your family.  In your previous letter to us, you state that you tried to apologize although you did nothing wrong.

Sadly, differences in religion or membership in Masonic societies do divide families in some cases,  and this leaves no recourse for you but to continue to hold them both in prayer.  You did nothing wrong.  You have tried to make amends.  May the Lord bless you and your family and give you peace.  We will pray for you that your father and his wife see the error of their ways and unite the family as God intendsBe at peace.    - CatholicView Staff


"If I commit a same sin again after absolution, does it
apply to such act in the future?" - Arthur
 

CatholicView Staff:

A priest in confession told me not to confess what I considered to be a certain sin again?  Does the priest's absolution apply to any such act in the future? - Arthur

 ________________________________

Arthur:

No, an absolution for a past sin is not valid for a future same sin.   Each time you commit that sin after promising to God that you will not repeat  that sin, it must be re-confessed by asking God to forgive you. 

God does not like promises that are not kept.   When we sin, we do not make the same mistake again over and over.  For each time we do this without asking for forgiveness, we keep the sin as a stain on the soul and it must be removed by being sorry for that sin and your repentance.

The good news is God is a loving God of forgiveness.  He will forgive us over and over again if we ask and try our best to not repeat our sinful behavior.  

And so, when we sin, and are truly sorry, God will forgive.  But it is up to us. By continuing to break the promise made to Him is a dishonor.  Get forgiveness for each new sin.  Please read a past article CatholicView published: 
"SEVENTY TIMES SEVEN" .   God bless you as you move forward in the faith.  CatholicView Staff


"Can you offer your guidance on how I can seek God?"
 - Bob
 

CatholicView Staff:

For the last few years I have had the strong urge to seek out God. I have gone to many different houses of worship and talked to many pious people about finding God. They all answered me the same way when I asked the question "How do I find God?  I feel him but how do I find him?". They answered just go to church, read the bible. I have done these things but it feels like I am missing a part.  Everyday I pray and do everything I can to seek God, and everyday it feels like I am further away than when I started. Please I don't know what to do anymore.   It just feels like I am missing the biggest part of God.  If you could offer your guidance on anything I could do, it would be greatly appreciated. - Bob

____________________________________

Bob:

God can be found through a simple prayer of repentance and sincerity.  Tell the Almighty God Who loves you that you confess your sins and that you need His Son Jesus in your life.  Ask God to show you through His Holy Spirit that He is real and is right here with you always. 

Find a quiet place, close your eyes and listen with your heart.  Let Him touch you with the peace only He can give.  Matt 11:28-29 tell us, "Come to me , all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls..

And when you pray, humbly asking God for whatever you need, remember to ask it in the most holy name of Jesus Christ His Son.

Bob ask Him into your heart, for He is waiting for you to come to Him.  God does not disappoint and His grace will be sufficient.   He knows how you feel and what you need even before you ask, and He WILL help you, if you let him!  Be blessed!  - CatholicView Staff

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