JUNE 2006



FATHER KEVIN BATES
FATHER AMARO SAUMELL
CATHOLICVIEW STAFF



FATHER KEVIN BATES

“Do non-Christians share in God’s Love and presence after death?”
-Mike

Father Kevin:

In the Gospels does Christ state that non-Christians, even those having lived a life based on Christ's message, will not share in God's love/presence after death? -  Mike

Hi Mike:

First of all there were no such beings as Christians and non-Christians at the time of Jesus.  They were invented later!!   Jesus does say in different places that the path to life depends on our following His teachings, on being born again, on loving each other and visiting the poor, the prisoner, and healing the sick and so on.  He never said that those who hadn't heard of Him could not be saved, or those who had not had the chance to hear His message could not be saved.  In fact, He died quite clearly, because His message was universal, and the religion of His day was limited to a certain select or "chosen" group.   It's pathetically sad, that in His memory, we have reinvented that system and people who claim to be His followers also claim that they are the only ones being saved. 

This is a most naive and unjust understanding of the gospel and is certainly not the teaching of the Catholic Church.  The Constitution on the Church in the Modern World of Vatican II makes it clear that all people of good will can be saved.  Pope John Paul 2 once wrote that through Jesus, God longs to engage with every person.  That is our Catholic teaching - a beautiful, radical and challenging hospitality.   No exclusive religious clubs for us - our gospel belongs to all people - including the ones who haven't even had the chance to hear it yet.  Kind Regards, Father Kevin

"Can one justify doing evil things to serve God?" - Toki

Dear Father:

Can one justify doing evil things to serve God? – Many thanks. – Toki

Hi Toki:

Thanks for your question.  Moral theologians argue the toss about this and will continue to do so forever!  In our Catholic tradition, we can say that when it comes to moral behavior, the end certainly does not justify the means.  So an evil act, even if the final intent is a good one, or as you put it, to serve God, cannot be justified.  Many fundamentalist Christians and Moslems and others, justify evil acts and claim that they are doing God's work.   This is impossible.

Having said all that, it is not always easy to discern what is morally good and morally evil.  There are many issues in today's world for instance where we need to have long and patient conversations until we discover what is indeed morally good and morally evil.  Questions around indigenous rights, around environmental issues, international justice, sexual morality, all require much mature reflection and conversation, as often enough there are frontiers to be explored in order to discover God's purposes in them.  Sometimes we can tend too easily to judge something evil, when we have not had sufficient reflection on the issue.  Every blessing, Father Kevin

        “If a person receives the Last Sacrament and dies in the state
of grace, do they go directly to heaven?”  Toni

Father:

I have always believed that if a person received the last sacrament and died in the state of grace they went directly to heaven.   Is this a misconception? What is the Church’s teaching regarding this?   Does the Lord still require our souls go through purgatory for the temporal punishment due to sin we committed in our lifetime?  If this is so, then the only benefit to the last sacrament that I can see is we die in the state of grace and are promised heaven at some point in time.  I would appreciate your thoughts and clarifying the churches teaching in regard to this. – Toni

Hi Toni:

If God is Love as we say God is, then I think it's probably a good idea simply to put all our trust in God and leave the rest to him.  Simply, we don't know what happens when we die, but we do believe we are in good and safe hands.  The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is a beautiful part of our ministry to each other, and it reminds us that we are not alone in our sickness and our dying.  Celebrating this sacrament well, makes us ready to meet God face-to-face we believe.  

Having said that, we have a long-held belief in the possibility of Purgatory.  This is based on a sound instinct of the Church.   For instance, I would say that on the day I die, there will still be imperfection in me, still old habits, attitudes, and memories that cry out for healing.  Purgatory is the healing of those parts of my heart so that I can then come into God's presence with full grace and confidence.  The Church teaches that this is a possibility for all of us.  It is really up to God of course how this all works, and at the end of the day we are guessing a bit really.  In God there is no time, no before or after, and so our explanation of Purgatory is an analogy only.   It could all happen in an instant if it needs to happen.  My guess is that for all of us, even if we have celebrated the Anointing of the Sick well, we will need a quick moment to get ready to meet God.  It's a bit like getting your hair done and getting dressed properly before you meet someone special. 

The Anointing of the Sick is not "the last sacrament" as you call it.  There is no such thing, though media people  and others still refer to the "Last Rites."  There is a special focus on our approaching death sometimes when we celebrate this Sacrament, but it can be for anyone who is sick.

The Anointing of the Sick is meant to heal, celebrate and comfort in time of sickness.   If this is done well by all concerned, then a person of course will be more ready to embrace the fullness of life that God has in mind for us.  The benefit of the sacrament is for the sick person and for all those attending the sick person and it works on many levels.  It is a wonderful part of the Church's ministry and reminds us that Jesus is with us in our most dire moments of grief and suffering.  It is a reminder that in our suffering we have a ministry to each other to witness to the love that Jesus showed us in gifting us with His whole self on the Cross. There are so many wonderful ways in which this sacrament works in people's lives.  Kind regards, Father Kevin

FATHER AMARO SAUMELL

             “Are we moving away from kneeling and genuflecting
       in church?" - L.C.

Father Amaro:

Why is the Church steering away from the tradition of kneeling and genuflecting, and pews with kneelers? – L.C.

Dear L.C.,

Let’s make a correction first. There is no “tradition” of kneeling. Now that I’ve raised a few eyebrows, let me clarify. There is, however, a long standing “custom” of kneeling at different times of the mass, which supposedly is agreed upon by the United States Conference of Bishops.

Having said that, the General Instruction to the Roman Missal gives may permissions for conferences of bishops to adapt to local custom. For example, kneeling means nothing to those in the Orient. It’s a European custom, or “western” custom. Another example of diverting from the GIRM (General Instruction of the Roman Missal or  directions on Mass and other liturgical celebrations) was during Pope John Paul II’s funeral, when all the bread was NOT on the altar, but in the priests hands who were concelebrating.

I guess what I’m trying to say is this. No, I don’t like the way some things are done in some parishes or dioceses either. I have preferences like everyone else. But I am there to worship God with my neighbor, not worship the liturgy itself or what posture is used.. Do not let Satan fool you by using familiar things to distract you from the point of the Mass, that is; the Real Presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

The Tradition of the Church, is the Apostolic Tradition, not the lower case “tradition” or “custom.” We have many different rites in the church such as the Byzantine, etc., who do not do things the same way we do. Yet there Divine liturgy is not illicit nor invalid.

Challenge your spiritual maturity not to fall into such distractions from love of God or neighbor. Posture does not validate or invalidate the Real Presence. God bless, Father Amaro

    “Is there a conflict between Scripture and Church
          teachings?”    - Davin

Father Amaro:

I'm having difficulty understanding a seeming conflict between Scripture and Church teachings.  If one looks in the index of the vast majority of Bibles for the 10 Commandments - one is directed to Exodus 20.  However, this is the set of Commandments that Moses smashed after finding his people dancing around the Golden Calf.   The second set of tablets (Exodus 34) has an entirely different set of Commandments.

What is the Church's stance on this issue?  Can you help me to determine when the change occurred?  Certainly, "Thou shalt not kill" reads better than "The firstborn of every womb belongs to me".  But this is the Word of God, why do we pick and choose something as basic as the Commandments?  Thank you for your valuable time. – Davin

Dear Davin,

If you get yourself a New American Catholic Bible, there are excellent footnotes that explain the “Christian” division of the Ten Commandments. It would be helpful also for your to study the Yahwist, Elohist, Deuteronomist, and Priestly tradition which shaped and influenced the way the “oral tradition” of the Covenant in the Old Testament was applied to written form. Each did have its own “agenda” or expression from a “point of view.” This will give you a good start and insight.  God bless, Father Amaro

     “I got married in a Hindu ceremony.  Can I remarry in the Catholic
Church?”  - Nicole

Father Amaro:

I was married to an Indian in a Hindu ceremony in India and we were later divorced.   Can I remarry in the Catholic Church? – Nicole

Dear Nicole,

A Catholic MUST be married in the presence of the Church’s minister for any marriage to be considered valid. But since a “natural union” did occur, you must visit your priest and ask to apply for a “Defect of Form” petition. The “form” by which a Catholic is to marry is before the Church’s minister. Your union was “defective” in this area and must be proclaimed so, most especially because it was done publicly.  God bless, Father Amaro

             “I have a homosexual orientation but I am called to
be a priest.” - Jon

Father Amaro:
 
I wonder if you can help me. I am a Catholic male aged 25 and have been considering a priestly vocation for the last year or so. I feel that I maybe called to be a priest and would like to pursue with the application process but have been experiencing some problems.

Firstly, I feel that I have a homosexual orientation as I am predominantly attracted to men, but have never had sexual contact with a man. However, I have viewed pornography on the internet. In the past, the pornography has been of an explicit nature. However, in the past year to eighteen months it has been mainly of naked or semi-naked men. My internet activity has also included ''chatting'' to other men in a sexual manner.

In the past year, I have greatly reduced the amount of material viewed and have managed to go for periods of time without looking at anything. I have also managed to reduce the frequency of my masturbation. I feel this problem is mainly due to the easy access of an internet connection at home and too much free time at the weekends.

I have pondered on the recent Vatican instruction regarding admission of those with homosexual 'tendencies' to the seminary and am not sure if I would be precluded on this basis. I would be very grateful if you could provide an opinion on this. The vocations director has intimated that if I let him know in the next couple of weeks I maybe able to obtain a place for this year, so speed is of the essence (he doesn't know about my problem).

Apart from the above, I am very normal, balanced 26 year old who has a wide circle of friends and interests. I genuinely want to do God's will and would be most grateful for your advice (as soon as possible, if possible).  Many thanks. – Jon

Dear Jon,

You might want to look at the answer in January’s questions on the same theme. But before addressing a vocation, please address the pornography disorder with a professional. Having pornography on a computer is reason to remove faculties from priestly ministry. You don’t want to become another “statistic,” right? Think and pray diligently. Jesus is the “truth,” the way and the life. You’ll know what to do.  God bless, Father Amaro

CATHOLICVIEW STAFF



“How do I regain that wonderful sense of peace that God gave?"
-Robin

CatholicView Staff:

I am usually an optimistic person, one to whom family and friends go to get comfort and consoling. But lately I have been overwhelmed with troubles. I know God only gives us as much trouble as he believes we can handle, but I am seriously drowning. I have lost my joy and can feel my faith slipping away. How do I regain that wonderful sense of peace that He gives me, back again? I know it’s there and I try to reach for it but then something else happens to bring me back down. I am not giving up the fight yet, but I am so very tired. Thank you. - Robin

Dear Robin:

Thank you for your letter.  What you are feeling is a natural whenever things happen in our lives that are unexpected.  Life itself is unpredictable.  Sometimes it seems just as we reach a comfortable plateau, something happens to shake us up.  We feel abandoned and lost.  Strong and constant prayer is the answer, imploring the Lord Who loves you to give you the ability to maintain a religious position firmly, and to resist Satan’s attack on your faith.   Because we live in a world where evil runs rampart and evil takes delight in Christian doubt, we must be on guard at all times, knowing that Almighty God is with you always.  God is a constant Who will protect His own if we ask for His grace and mercy.  These trials and troubles come to us all but they will help us to grow, to refine ourselves for the glory of Jesus Christ our Lord.  Do not be afraid, for Jesus promised never to leave us to face anything alone.  He is there always, to comfort, console, and share your burdens.

I would suggest that you talk to a priest in your parish.  I think you will find that you will be stengthened and able to move ahead with new vigor in your faith. – CatholicView Staff

 “I want to be baptized.  Would it be possible to be
forgiven for abortion?” - Laura

CatholicView Staff:

My husband and I have been considering becoming Catholics.  There are several things that I have to do in order to accomplish this.   This is my second marriage and his first.  We have already spoken to our parish priest about an annulment from my first marriage.  I haven’t spoken to the priest about an abortion that I had several years ago.   I was young and encouraged heavily by my mother to have it.  Will this keep me from becoming a Catholic?  I understand that Catholic's who have had abortions are automatically excommunicated.  We have just begun to start our classes and have been attending mass regularly.  I was hoping that once my annulment went through and we became members that I might then be able to partake of the sacrament of communion.   Will this ever be possible?  I am truly sorry for I did and am afraid that my very soul is in jeopardy. – Laura

Dear Laura:

Do not be distressed.  The sins you have done in the past, while very serious, are forgiven when you voiced your intent to accept Jesus’ gift of salvation, your intent to be baptized, and when you asked forgiveness for your sins.  God is a forgiving God, and if you are absolutely sorry for your sin of abortion and have promised the Lord that you will never commit this sin again, that sin is erased from God’s Book of Life forever. 

Go forward with your faith.  Do not let satan fool you into thinking God does not forgive this great sin.  Jesus died to forgive such sins forever when we ask.   Let the Holy Spirit of the Lord infuse you with new strength and courage to avoid this sin in the future. – CatholicView Staff

  “I am a Kenyan and wish to know more on late vocations.”
- Duncan

CatholicView Staff:

I am a Kenyan and wish to know more on late vocations. I am 33 years old and my wish has been to join the priesthood but took a lot of my time to respond, but I still believe this is my calling. - Duncan

Dear Duncan:

This is a wonderful and sacred calling and you should honor it.  Many are called and go into the seminary at a later stage of their lives.  Contact your local seminary and apply there.  They will inform you what is necessary to begin your studies.

In the meantime, why not go and talk to a priest in your parish?   He will give you all the necessary information to get started.  May the Lord go with you in your quest to work for Him.  CatholicView Staff

      “Was St. Augustine the founder of the Anglican Church?”
- Cameron

CatholicView Staff:

I am a new convert to the Catholic Faith from the Anglican church. An Anglican priest I know, tells me that Henry the 8th didn't found Anglicanism, but  St. Augustine. He says that Anglican spirituality was never in agreement on many areas in Doctrine with Rome so when the Reformation happened, it was no big surprise for the Church of England. Is all this true?

Cameron:

The answer is simple:  no, this is not true.  Henry VIII decided to establish the separated Church of England when he broke ties with the bishop of Rome.  To say that Saint Augustine founded "Anglicanism" is incorrect.   Saint Augustine established the Church -- the Catholic Church -- in the British Isles but did not establish an independent, separate church with separate theological teachings different from the universal church in Rome.  Each nation that had a church established added its own cultural tint to the Gospel of Christ but it was cultural touch, not a theological stance that would be different from the Gospel of Christ as preserved by the Church of Rome or the Eastern Orthodox Church of Constantinople (or any patriarchal church such as Antioch, Alexandria, Jerusalem as an example).   Your Anglican priest friend is mistaken -- trying to rationalize his church's position as a separated church from the Roman communion, a separation that was caused by Henry VIII.  As a manner of self-education, please do some research on church history.  I think that your studies will open your mind and heart to see how God works throughout history and the verification that the Catholic Church is the Church established by Christ and His Apostles. – CatholicView Staff

“Must a Catholic be confirmed before marriage?” - Amy
 

CatholicView Staff:

I have been raised Catholic and have been confirmed and my boyfriend (soon to be fiance) has also been raised Catholic, however, never been confirmed. It is important for me to be married in the Catholic Church, so my question is does my boyfriend have to be confirmed prior to getting married?  Thanks. - Amy

Amy:

In answer to your question, it is desirable for both parties to be confirmed BUT is not necessary to the marriage.  Since marriage is one of the Sacraments of the Church but in order to take the full membership, Baptism, the Eucharist, as well as Confirmation is recommended.  But it is not an absolute necessity.  Therefore, in a toss up between the obligation and right, The Catholic’s right to be married in the Church supersedes one's obligation to be confirmed prior to marriage according to Canon Law 1065. – CatholicView Staff

“I have been thinking about death a whole lot lately.  Will I die soon?”
- Jackie

CatholicView Staff:

I have been thinking about death a whole lot lately and it makes me So very sad when I think of dying because I am expecting a child.   I have also had dreams.  I fear people think of death more before they die... not sure.   Does this mean I may die soon? - Jackie

Dear Jackie:

It is not unusual for us all to think about our natural end.  And we prepare for it by being faithful to Christ’s teachings.  It is when we dwell on the subject of death rather than the good things that God has put here for us to enjoy that we become fearful and feel death is imminent.  Is this your first child perhaps?  If so, this can sometimes be a fear of the unknown.

Know that the Lord is with you at all times.  Do not worry about things that are in our Father’s hands.  Pray that God will give you a beautiful and healthy child.  Look ahead to a glorious future with your child. God is the only one who knows our time table.  Go forth in your faith and depend on the Lord to see you through.   ^“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.”  Matthew 10: 29-30.  God bless you and the beautiful new baby He is blessing you with! – CatholicView Staff  

                


“Can a priest change dioceses?” - Mark

CatholicView Staff:

If a Catholic Priest wants to switch dioceses for some reason, say from Philadelphia to Savannah, would he be allowed to?  Thank you. - Mark

Dear Mark

Yes, it is acceptable for a diocesan priest to change dioceses.  But it has to be approved by the respective bishops of those dioceses and letters of recommendation and reason why for the change would accompany all correspondence to either bishop.  - CatholicView Staff

 


“If we accept God and believe in him, do we
       have to do more?” - Sandy

CatholicView Staff:

I was brought up to believe that Jesus paid the ultimate ransom and died on the cross so our sins could be forgiven.  If we accept God and believe in him will we get to heaven or do we have to do more.  Do we have to do preaching work?
Thank you for your time and efforts - Sandy

Dear Sandy:

You are correct in saying that Jesus paid the ultimate price for our redemption.  But you have a wrong attitude here.  You ask if we have to do something to get to heaven.  The only thing required is to love and accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.  But the word, love, is an ACTIVE WORD, not a passive word.  When I love someone, I actively do something to show it.  Well, the focus of your question is incorrect.  The focus of your question on faith should be on how you are to show your love for God in your daily life.  If you say you love God but just sit around and do your own selfish thing, then you really don’t love God.  In James 2:14-26 (please read the whole citation since I am only giving a one verse of it here):  “Faith is like that:  if good works do not go with it, it is quite dead.”  Such dead faith cannot guarantee your salvation.  So instead of seeking what to do on a minimal level, seek how to do the maximum for Christ and His Church. – CatholicView Staff

  “Should I tell my sister that my child saw her “dead” son?”
- Debra

CatholicView Staff:

My 2 year old niece was sitting in my sister's lap and said she saw Victor during my other sister's wedding reception. Victor was only called Scott and he died in November of a shooting. She couldn't have remembered him. Could he have come to her and my sister who is his mother to let them find some peace and comfort, or should I be worried by this? It did not seem threatening.  – Debra

Debra:

There are some things that cannot be explained by human beings such as what your 2 year old child saw.   It is up to you whether you want to tell her but remember that sometimes well meaning revelations bring a fresh onslaught of pain and suffering.

Why not consult your parish priest and see if he has some thinking on this?  You will be able to go into more detail and perhaps gain a greater understanding as to what is at stake here.  God bless. -  CatholicView Staff

“Where can I find this saying?  ‘The race is not given to the swift
nor to the strong, but to those who persevere’?” 
- Edward         

CatholicView Staff:

Can you tell me where in the bible it says:   ”The race is not given to the swift nor to the strong, but to those who persevere?”  - Edward   

Edward:

There is NO biblical verse that corresponds to the saying above, nor any verse that would support the saying above.  The closest I can show you is this from Galatians 5:7:  “You have begun your race well:  who made you less anxious to obey the truth?”  - CatholicView Staff

 


“Will the Catholic Church accept me?” - Riley 

CatholicView Staff:

I was raised Presbyterian and have some unsettled issues with their dogmatic theology, I’m sure you understand well enough. I’m a student of the Bible and try to follow Jesus sincerely.  Will the Catholic church acccept me?  Will I be welcome?  Or will conversion to Christ’s true church be harsh to me because of my background? Thank you. God bless richly according to His great love.  Riley, your friend to be sure.

Dear Riley:

I hope that you have searched for the answers you seek carefully before making any decision to become part of the Catholic Church.  The Church would welcome you with open arms and your education in the faith will not be difficult at all.   Making an appointment with your local parish priest would open the door to your desire to be a Catholic.  – CatholicView Staff

“My wife had a tubal ligation in the 1980”s.  Are our
intimate relations wrong?” - John

CatholicView Staff:

My wife and I are in our 50's. After being a lukewarm Catholic for almost my entire life I have become very devout and my wife is converting to the Catholic faith. She had a tubal ligation back in the 1980's, we had no idea this was wrong. We now realize our error and I confessed to my parish priest what we had done and that I am concerned that our intimate relations now is wrong, even though she is post menopausal and could not conceive even if her tubes were not tied.  In confession my priest absolved me and said all was fine and our relations are not sinful but I am still worried and would like your opinion, please. We still love each other very much. - John

Dear John:

I am so happy to hear that you love your wife and your marriage is giving both of you life and joy!   I praise God for your marriage!  I also rejoice in your own conversion of heart from a lukewarm faith to a living faith.  As for the surgical procedure that your wife had twenty years ago, not much can be done now.  You have confessed this situation and have been reconciled to God and His church.  You cannot go back in time and change anything.  Accept the gift of forgiveness with an open heart and rejoice that the Lord has blessed you with a wonderful marriage.  Give thanks to the Lord and stop focusing on the past.  Move forward in the Lord. -  CatholicView Staff

                 “My boyfriend hears voices and see things.  What
shall I do?” - Brea
 

CatholicView Staff:

I'm 19 and from Canada, I'm very worried about my boyfriend.   He is a FDNY medic. Anyway, since I have known him he's had awful dreams, visions, hears voices, and seen things, and he says this has happened since he was a child. I visited him recently in NY, and he only has a one room apartment so we slept in different beds but in the same room anyway. One night he sat straight up and he was gasping for breath.   I was going to call 911, and he sat there staring at something. I turned the light on and he slowly calmed down and he said he saw a man standing there.  I really don’t think he was asleep.  We go on walks and he would see people who would disappear. One night he asked me why I was sleeping with him, I said I wasn’t.   This morning he heard voices and was awake. He's not crazy.  He's been checked out but I’m getting scared because he is also getting weak and sick and they can’t figure out why. What should I do? Thanks. -   Brea

Dear Brea:

I am sorry for the troubles you are having with your boy friend.  Unfortunately this seems to be both a medical and a psychologist’s question that should be put to someone who is familiar with such issues.  Sometimes health problems can provoke these things.  I would suggest that he seek a qualified person to help him before this progresses further and causes irreparable harm.

Don’t delay.  He is at risk.  May God give you both the strength and courage to get the assistance you need to overcome this situation.   – CatholicView Staff

      


 “Is divorce a sin if one or both parties felt pressured to
get married?” - Gretchen
 

Dear CatholicView staff: 

Is divorce a sin if one or both parties felt pressured to get married? – Gretchen

Dear Gretchen:

You do not state sufficient facts to make a determination of your future status.  Go and see your parish priest and discuss this in person.  There may be circumstances he will be able to access and make judgment as to whether you are entitled to an annulment or not.  God bless.  – CatholicView Staff

“Are there ancestral curses in the Catholic Church?”
- Sara

CatholicView Staff:

I am interested in becoming Catholic, but confused about "ancestral curses" which my Catholic friend believes in. Can you tell me what they are, and if Catholics really believe in them?

Dear Sara:

I have never heard of  “ancestral curses” and do not adhere to such notions.  Sometimes people unknowingly put labels on truth and unthinkingly label “myths” as part of our Church.  Know that our truth is based on faith and in the trinity: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ Who gave us salvation), and God, the Holy Spirit.  We believe that Jesus died for us to take away our sin for all time.  It is a gift and in order to receive this we must have faith in that gift, and be baptized as a public show of our faith.   As Christian Catholics we live according to the teachings of Christ.

Read your bible.   Go and talk to the priest in your parish.  See what is required of us.  Only the truth found there is important.  Myths and superstitions have no place in our Church. – CatholicView Staff 

                    


“Why God create people who would be doomed?” - Ann 
 

CatholicView Staff::

If God is all knowing, then He knew before He created us which of us would go to Heaven, and which of us would go to hell.  So why create those who would be doomed?   I've been told the answer is that we have free will.  Despite free will, God still knew what choices we would make if, indeed, He is all knowing.  I've been pondering this question since 8th grade, and I'm in my 50's now and still have not heard a satisfactory answer.

Thank you for your help with this confusing and complicated issue.

Ann

Dear Ann:

You are right. God gave us “FREE WILL”.   With it we have a choice to choose whether we want to accept Jesus as Lord and Master or go to hell by our own hand.

Yes, God IS all knowing.  Imagine a child trying to decide if he should “take” a forbidden cookie or not.  A parent might know that he or she will, but that child determines his own actions whether he will or will not.  That child is still free to choose.

Does that mean we are left to flounder on our own?  No, for God wants us all to live with Him someday.  He will touch our hearts if we listen, He will pave the paths for us if we will follow, and yes, He even sent His Son to die for us as a show of love, if we choose to ACCEPT Jesus as Savior.  But then again, that Free Will thing can lead us down an evil road unless we pay attention, pray and not go our own way.

God gave us the great opportunity to live eternally.  He wants us, but He wants us to be worthy to enter His perfect Heaven.  Know that we do not worry what is written down in the Book of Life for that is God’s business; we need only to pray and trust and have faith, we need only to trust in His promises.  If He promises something, we can be sure He will never lie.  Rest on your faith and leave unimportant things for Him to solve.  Someday we will know all things.  Someday you will be able to ask “Why?”  God will do the rest in this life.  God bless you always and strengthen your faith in Him. - CatholicView Staff

“Should I feel guilty for leaving a home prayer vigil early?”  - Jannet

CatholicView:

I recently attended a prayer vigil at a home.  There was a break in the prayer for dinner and I then I decided to leave as it seem to be a bit long-winded  for me.   (I prefer a more private and personal prayer in the contemplative style.

One of the attended tried to keep me from departing and said I should feel guilty if I did not remain for the rest of the evening.  I was surprised with the answer and asked again to make sure I understood what was said.  I did not react to the comment verbally, but in silence I thought that prayer was being placed on a level of   force and not at a level that is honest and sincere.  Please tell me your thoughts.  Thanks! – Jannet

Dear Jannet:

I agree with you.  This is a very strange situation you describe.  You can go and leave any prayer service or liturgy as you like.  There is no sin involved in staying or walking out. - CatholicView 

“My boyfriend are fixing up our future home but live there chastely. 
Is this a sin?” - Katie

CatholicView Staff:

My fiancé and I practice chastity, but we bought a house 2 years ago that needed to be totally renovated, so we have been living together, devoting our free time to fixing it up. We pray regularly together, as well as attend mass a couple times a week, but are we living a sin everyday we live together? - Katie

Dear Katie:

You are to commended for adhering to the biblical teaching of practicing chastity before marriage.  However, CatholicView is concerned about this.  The Church teaches clearly that we must avoid the occasion of sin.  When two people in love live close proximity, it can present dire problems.

CatholicView strongly suggests that you talk to your parish priest.  You and your fiancé can sit down and discuss why you must live within the same household.  Listen to his advice.  May God continue to strengthen your resolve to remain chaste.  CatholicView Staff

 “My sister is a lesbian and plans to get “married.  Can I attend
with my children?” - Jennifer

 
CatholicView Staff:
 
I love my sister who is a lesbian.  I love her girlfriend (also a lesbian).   They are planning to "get married."  I love them both and want to be there for them.  I want to know how the church would feel about this.  Also, I have not been asked yet, but what if my children (9,6, and 3) are asked to part of the ceremony?  I am torn apart.  I consider myself a catholic, but also love my sister AND her girlfriend -  Jennifer

Dear Jennifer:

The church has always held that the sacrament of marriage is only contracted between a man and a woman.   Therefore, the church only sees sexual intimacy in terms of marriage.  Any sexual intimacy outside of marriage is considered sinful and not an option for a Christian.   As for the phenomenon of the homosexual orientation, there is no explanation of why some people have that sexual identity as part of who they are.  Who are we to judge anyone?  You love your sister.  You want to show your care and concern.  Show them your love, share their joy, and enjoy the celebration.  As for the participation of your children in the “ceremony,” I ask that you think very clearly about the implications of their involvement.  You will have to sit down with them and explain why your sister is different from you and your husband.  You are also going to have to explain that the church only recognizes -- as valid -- marriage between a man and a woman as a living symbol of Christ’s love for His church (Revelation 21).  As parents, the decision to involve your children in such a ceremony must be weighed on the message you want to give to them. – CatholicView Staff

 


“Is there any thing special or different each of us in
God’s eyes?”  - Mary

                                      
CatholicView Staff:

This is a sad story.   My father drank a lot and one time during one of those occasions he raped my mother.   I became the result but I did not find this out until I was an adult.   All my life I was treated my relatives differently and things were said like  “She is a God’s child.”   Is there any thing special or different about us in God’s eyes?   Thank you.  Mary

Mary:

I am sorry to hear that you found out the details of how you were conceived.  But in God’s Plan, you were created because God wanted you in this place, in this time, for a specific purpose and life mission.  You were loved into existence by God who created you and wanted you for the world now.  There are no accidents or mistakes since God doesn’t know how to make mistakes.  So, be assured that you are wanted and love in God’s eyes.  We are all loved by God.  You are like everyone else in this world:  created by the love of God for His Plan and destined for heaven!  CatholicView Staff

“If I am insane can I sin?” - Stasha

                                    
 
CatholicView Staff:

I was born and raised a catholic.  I went to Catholic grade school (Alter boy), high school, even graduated La Salle University with a BA in Physics and went on to advanced degrees in physics and computer science.  I am also a transsexual.  I know that the Church has issues a statement (Jan 2001) that all transsexuals are insane.  This was supported by a statement made by La Salle Alumni Office indicated that they would not publish any information about me because my EXSISTANCE goes against Church Policy.  Now for my question; if I am insane can I sin? - Stasha

Stasha:

Who says that you are insane?  By the way, we will all be held accountable for our sins, so insanity is not an excuse to escape accountability for our actions.  Thank God for the gift of forgiveness that enables us to always go forward with hope.  There is no church document (please, show me) that says that transsexuals are insane.  The Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith issued a letter on the subject of pastoral care to those of the homosexual orientation.   Nothing in that letter says that people are insane because of their sexual orientation or gender identity issues.  The church does say clearly that sexual intimacy outside of the sacred and sacramental bonds of marriage is SINFUL and the sin is mortal because sexual sin is against God’s natural law.   As to your particular situation, God alone knows the pain and confusion that comes with issues of gender identity that you struggle with daily.  God alone knows why you and others like you have been given this challenge.  But challenges like this are there to make us all grow in our understanding of God’s unconditional love for us and others.  If anything, you can set aside your anger and judgment and help others who feel that they are on the outside looking in.  So, instead of feeling negative, ask the Lord to change it into a positive for you so that God’s love can flow through you.  As for the gender issues, please see a spiritual director to help you sort out the negative feelings you have for God and His Church so that you can be a positive force in the world.   – CatholicView Staff    

                           “Why does the Church ban the music “Here comes the bride?”
                                                                     - Stewart
 

CatholicView Staff:

I have an issue with my upcoming wedding.  My fiancé would really love to have 'Here comes the bride'. After all it is her day. The wedding coordinator for the parish told us they cannot play the song because it is considered sacrilege. Are you kidding me? It is just a song and the reason for them believing it is sacrilege is that they say they used to marry animals with this song.  My point is that this is the song she wants. You only get married once. Shouldn’t it be on your terms?
My question here is since I have been to many Catholic weddings and all of them have played "Bridal Chorus" AKA 'Here comes the Bride'.    Is the parish on its own allowed to ban a particular song for a wedding ceremony?  Are parishes independent or are they mandated by the Diocese to a certain extent?  This is very upsetting and I hope someone can help us out.  I have done extensive research and have nothing supporting their argument.  Also, I have not yet spoken to the priest. Before I plan to I wanted to ask a priest for myself.   Thank you -  Stewart

Dear Stewart:

I will have to agree with your wedding coordinator that “Here Comes The Bride” while beautiful and what some might consider traditional is not appropriate music nor is acceptable in the Catholic mass.   Because marriage is a sacrament, the music should be religious.  The music “Here Comes the Bride”, which originated in one of Lohengrin’s operas, is secular with undertones of a pagan character and as such is unsuitable for a Catholic Wedding.  – CatholicView Staff

               “Will my mother’s suffering serve to expiate her sins?” -Joyce
            

Catholicview Staff:

My mother, 76, fell and suffered a brain injury eight months ago.  She appeared to be recovering nicely, but in January she got pneumonia and has been very ill ever since.    She is now in a nursing home, completely dependent on others for her care, and she will never recover.  My question is this:  I can accept her suffering if I believe this trial will serve to expiate her sins.  But I cannot believe in a God who would exact more punishment than this.  So is it right to believe that our earthly suffering atones for our sins in much the same way as Purgatory is supposed to?   If not, how can we reconcile ourselves to the suffering of those we love?  - Joyce

Dear Joyce:

I am so sorry to hear about your mother.  I am so sad to hear of her suffering.  But, I want to make one thing clear:  her suffering IS NOT a punishment for her sins nor is it a way “to expiate her sins.”  Jesus Christ did that for us on the cross once for all.  So, what is the purpose of suffering?  Some things happen outside of our control and plans.  People get sick, people suffer great physical, emotional, and spiritual pain.  Life is that way, almost haphazard.  Suffering then is an opportunity to change something so negative into positive growth in the Lord Jesus.  There is NO WAY I can do anything to expiate my sins (except to believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior).   That’s why Jesus died on the cross.   He nailed sin, guilt, and death to that cross and when we ask for forgiveness, it is given to us freely and without question (the Divine Mercy of Jesus).  In return, the Lord wants us to repent and change and be Christ in the world.  So, what am I to do with the pain of suffering and is there meaning in suffering?  There is meaning in suffering only if I put it there.  I can make the decision to be angry and hate suffering and not embrace it as a blessing in disguise.  If so, then I will be miserable.  But if I take suffering and make it a prayer for others and myself, then I am putting a positive meaning to suffering that will make me wiser, stronger, and more God-like since suffering always changes a person from within.  What kind of change is it?  That depends on your faith in the Lord.  I can believe that God has a plan for me and therefore transform suffering into an opportunity for spiritual growth.  And if God has a plan for me, then my suffering can be a tool in that plan.  I remember in my childhood that my religious teachers would always say to offer up your pain for something, like the souls in purgatory, or someone in need, or for the conversion of sinners.  It was their way of helping us put meaning in suffering.  Instead of asking, “why me?” ask instead, “Lord, what do you want me to learn from this painful event?”  Your mother’s suffering is her prayer for you and all her family.  A mother’s love is filled with great joy and great pain.  And in great pain, she gave birth to you...yet she did not dwell on the pain because she knew that the pain of childbirth would result in YOU.  The same with our own suffering....it is a kind of “labor” that will give birth to something even greater in me (and by consequence, influence others around me positively) according to God’s plan for my life.  – Catholicview Staff  

“Can you explain Fasting and Abstinence?” - Elena

CatholicView Staff:

My question:  I have asked many Catholics and no one can tell me why we cannot eat meat on Ash Wednesday and Fridays during Lent?   I grew up with this and have instilled it in my children but honestly I do not know why? Thanks – Elena

Dear Elena:

Fasting and abstaining from meat is an ancient Christian tradition as well as a Hebrew (Jewish) tradition.  As a sign of beginning our Lenten practice of thinking about our lives and our need to change and repent, we discipline ourselves by fasting and abstaining and praying.