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OCTOBER 2007 FATHER KEVIN BATES, SM FATHER CEDRIC PISEGNA, C.P. CATHOLICVIEW STAFF FATHER KEVIN BATES, SM "Is it possible to marry someone from Sikh religion in the Church.?" - Beata Dear Father:
Hi Beata: Yes you should be able to marry in the Catholic Church if your partner is ok with that. I don't know how it works where you live but here in Australia, we would do a marriage preparation course with you both, and make sure that you are both happy with a Catholic celebration, and there would be some documentation to complete regarding a mixed marriage such as yours and then away you go. I guess it will be a similar situation wherever you are. Wishing you every blessing in your marriage. - Father Kevin
Father Kevin:
Dear Elizabeth: I suggest you approach the Chancery Office in your diocese and get them to help you with this. My guess from what you've told me and the way the Church's law is at this time, is that your husband might require an annulment as neither he nor his first wife were Catholic at the time of their marriage, and the Church presumes validity in that case. In your case, as a Catholic you were married without Church permission outside the Church and the presumption would be that that your first marriage was not valid according to Church law. I can't see any reason why you wouldn't start the marriage classes and get on to your Chancery office and find someone friendly and knowledgeable there who could help you with your situation. I wish you all the best and pray that all turns out really well for you both. - Father Kevin
Father Kevin:
Hi Tim, You sound pretty healthy and normal to me and your experience is a common one. No, it is certainly not sinful to have those feelings - they come along in response to various situations such as the one you found yourself in. By removing yourself from a moment of temptation you did well. I'd simply thank God that you still are aware of God's beauty wherever it finds us and that you had the integrity necessary to respond to that moment in a way that honored your marriage commitment. All good wishes, Father Kevin
Dear Father Cedric:
Dear Patrick, I am glad that you are blessed such that you are wealthy and that you support your wife in this way. However, your wife deserves to be able to go and live her dreams and work outside the home if that is her wish. I wonder why you didn’t talk about this first before marrying? Perhaps if you let her go to do this, she would not be bored and spend so much time at the pub seeking male friendship? I do believe however, that she should not only ask your permission on the pub problem, but refrain from doing so. Perhaps you should sit down with her and try to communicate. Tell her you want to honor her desires and dreams and you are prepared to let her pursue a career. Tell her also that it is not your desire that she go to the pub to meet male friends. I hope you can come to a happy balance/medium. The church’s stand on wives are that they are equal to their husbands. Yes, when push comes to shove, a man is the head of the household, but he should love his wife as himself and not try to control her. Sincerely, Fr. Cedric
Dear Father: I am a nurse and have a patient who has received In Vitro Fertilization. My roll is to go to her home daily and administer an injection of Progesterone (female hormone) to increase her chances of becoming pregnant. This woman is 41 years old and single and wants children. I don't know any more than that about her background. She seems to be financially secure. I took this job for the extra money. Initially, she had insurance, as was required by my place of employment. When she lost her insurance (yesterday) she asked me to keep coming and she would pay me. I just realized this could be a sin. Please help me out with this one. Thank you. Sandra Bernard
Dear Sandra, You need to look at your conscience on this one Sandra. Since In Vitro Fertilization is against church teaching, you have to decide whether the extra money is worth disobeying church teaching. I think if you do what is right, God will make it up to you in other ways. God Bless you as you search your heart and decide. Let your conscience be your guide. - Father Cedric
Father Cedric:
April: I get this question often, "How can a loving God permit evil in the world?" There are accidents, fires, earthquakes, diseases, abuse, etc… This is called the problem of evil. There is evil in the world and the way God has designed it, evil can take place. Much of these sad deeds are done by people, such as the cases you listed above. It is sad but true. God has given us the greatest of freedoms, free will, and time and time again we choose to harm, hurt and disobey. I think God was faced with a dilemma. Should he give us free will? Or should He make a world where there could be no evil perpetrated. He choose to give us free will in the hopes we would be able to handle it. Sadly we aren’t that responsible. However, a new day is coming when Justice will prevail. We’ve only seen this side of the veil and all will be made right on God’s day of judgment. Aborted babies, abused children, innocent deaths, etc., will be taken care of then, to be sure. I share your sadness in the events of this world. I know however that God is not to blame. God is only giving responsibility to us. It is we who have fallen short. But, somehow I trust God will make it all work to good. There is more than meets the eye. A new day is coming! Sincerely, Fr. Cedric
CatholicView Staff:
Dear Nevil: What a wonderful thing you are doing by coming back to the Church. The Church teaches we should be in a state of grace and worthiness before we approach the altar for communion. The act of taking communion without confession is not a cause for excommunication. And there is no such thing as a sin that is irreversible if a person has asked for forgiveness. You must speak to a priest and state your situation. We are all sinners and subject to sin. It is only through God’s saving Grace and the salvation given by Jesus Christ that we become deserving to partake in this sacrament. God is willing to forgive you. But you must not commit that same sin again. Start by praying immediately, asking the Lord to forgive you and give you the courage and strength to speak to a priest to discuss this matter. You can either make an appointment or go directly to confession. – CatholicView Staff "My married friend borrowed money
from me to get his CatholicView Staff: Recently I have to make the most difficult decision of my life. I have a friend and he already has a family but he made another girl pregnant. He wanted to borrow my money to get an abortion because he couldn't afford it. At first I hesitated to let him borrow because of my belief. After that, he persuaded me saying that if his wife found out his whole family will be ruined and he had promised me to change himself for the better. He also told me that if I didn't let him borrow the money he would have to rob the liquor store. So finally I agreed to let him borrow the money, I know is wrong but I want him to change for the better and at the same time I don't want him to rob the store. I feel very guilty because I feel like I helped him kill his own child. Please give me some advice because this decision has torn me apart I just don't know if I did the right thing or not. Thanks - Steven Dear Steven: Because CatholicView received two similar questions, we are giving a combined answer on the topic of aiding another to procure abortion. I am grateful to God that you helped someone who was in crisis. At the same time, I am saddened. There are times when saying NO is the proper and appropriate thing to do. In this case, you were not in a no-win situation as you say. You "win" when you say NO. NO, you won’t help procure an abortion. NO, you won’t compromise the value of life. NO, you won’t partake in the taking of any kind of human life. I am also sorry to tell you and those who read this answer that helping, aiding, abetting an act of abortion excommunicates a believer from the Catholic Church. Excommunication is an act of separation from the Church and the person excommunicated cannot participate or partake of the sacraments, except the sacrament of penance (confession, reconciliation). You must go to confession and explain this situation so that the state of excommunication can be fixed and your sin of helping someone procure an abortion forgiven. The penance will be given by the priest who hears your confession. Usually, I recommend as a penance that you have a Mass said for the repose of the soul of the unborn child and you attend that Mass. Everything is in God’s Hands now and it is time to move forward. Remember, NO is an appropriate way to help someone as well. – CatholicView Staff "I have not received my First Reconciliation, but I have received my First Communion. Is this proper?" - Sarah CatholicView Staff: I was away from the church for years and have recently returned. I have not received my First Reconciliation, but I have received my First Communion. When can I go to Confession? Do I have to take a class or can I just go one Saturday?
Dear Sarah: Congratulations on returning to the Church. I am assuming that you took your communion before confession. Actually, confession comes first, then you receive the body and blood of Jesus Christ after being made pure in heart by confessing to God all your sins. But do not concern yourself this time. Just go to confession and state this and feel welcomed back among the Church community. – CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: I have lived with my wife for 61 years. She lied about every thing that I needed to know that concerned our happiness. She claimed I was the father of her unborn child though I never penetrated her. I loved her and married her to my dismay. We have 7 children but she most certainly had sexual relations with other men. We lost a 7 week old baby girl after one of her affairs and it died from a reported Crib death which I doubt very much. She showed little or no grieving and never in over 55 years visited the grave sight. She lied about our finances which she lavished on herself with the most expensive clothing available that she hid from me in boxes under the bed after filling her closet. She recently talked about someone she met and bragged about him openly to me and showing exactly where he lives. About 6 miles away. Why would she tell me this? As a child she had a bad habit of lying which she admits but claims she outgrew it. I had my pancreas removed in 2001 and have uncontrolled glucose and entered into comas. She remarked that she could let me die and no one would ever know. She attempted to do so on 5 or 6 occasions but somehow I survived her lack of providing orange juice or any sweets normally given to a diabetic. I recently could not stand the way she kept running with other men and openly telling me she wanted me out of her life. It angered me to the point I slapped her face and it was exactly what she wanted me to do. She is 83 years old and I am 87. I tried to reconcile but she prefers not to. I offered to go together to a neurologist for testing and help if available. She refused. I have 7 children who love me very much and as she predicted, they will not believe me. Is it possible to cure the lying? She attends mass every Sunday and her evil ways get worse. Dear Edward: Please talk to your children about this matter. If you feel that your life is in danger, then please, make it a point to talk to your children. You may have to move in with one of them so that you can have the medical care you need when your blood sugar level falls. Please, it may be time to leave your home. – CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: For medical reasons I had to have a hysterectomy, since my husband and I cannot bear children any longer. Is it sinful for us to engage in sex? - Kathleen Dear Kathleen: No, it is not a sin for a married couple to have sexual intimacy no matter the medical condition. – CatholicView Staff
CatholicView Staff: In November of 2005, I assisted an unmarried, drug-addicted prostitute in obtaining a late term abortion. I first counseled her on other options such as adoption, but she was adamant that she would end her life if she could not have an abortion. So, I drove her to the clinic, looked after her after the procedure, and encouraged her to get control of her life and soul so that she never found herself in this predicament again. I now feel that despite my good intentions, I owe God a soul. I feel like that was a no-win situation and I have prayed to God over it many times. Can you help me? Am I damned for the help I offered someone who was in crisis? What penance can I do to begin to make recompense? I'm tortured over this. - David David: Because CatholicView received two similar questions, we are giving a combined answer on the topic of aiding another to procure abortion. I am grateful to God that you helped someone who was in crisis. At the same time, I am saddened. There are times when saying NO is the proper and appropriate thing to do. In this case, you were not in a no-win situation as you say. You "win" when you say NO. NO, you won’t help procure an abortion. NO, you won’t compromise the value of life. NO, you won’t partake in the taking of any kind of human life. I am also sorry to tell you and those who read this answer that helping, aiding, abetting an act of abortion excommunicates a believer from the Catholic Church. Excommunication is an act of separation from the Church and the person excommunicated cannot participate or partake of the sacraments, except the sacrament of penance (confession, reconciliation). You must go to confession and explain this situation so that the state of excommunication can be fixed and your sin of helping someone procure an abortion forgiven. The penance will be given by the priest who hears your confession. Usually, I recommend as a penance that you have a Mass said for the repose of the soul of the unborn child and you attend that Mass. Everything is in God’s Hands now and it is time to move forward. Remember, NO is an appropriate way to help someone as well. - CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: I am applying for a dissolution of my marriage in Mexico through the Pauline Privilege. This is the first time the office has done this procedure. The Marriage Tribunal told me that the papers get sent to the local Bishop for a signature and then they get sent to Rome for approval. From what I have read, I understand that only the Petrine Privilege gets sent to the Holy See and that the Pauline Privilege can be authorized by the local Bishop. Would you please confirm what is the correct process? Thank you. Dear Barbara: You are correct in saying that the Pauline Privilege is handled on the local diocesan level while the Petrine Privilege is handled at the Vatican. Maybe the misunderstanding is that your situation is really a Petrine Privilege case. Remember, the Pauline Privilege is for an UNBAPTIZED NON-BELIEVER who becomes baptized and Catholic who wants their first marriage dissolved so that they can enter a marriage with a Catholic. The Petrine Privilege is for a BAPTIZED CHRISTIAN who has become Catholic and wishes to have their first marriage dissolved so that they can enter a marriage with a Catholic. – CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: I was wondering what your opinion on the morality of grinding and dirty dancing in clubs. It seems as though it is just dancing for some people who like to have fun. Thanks. - Jay Hello Jay: Dancing in itself is not wrong. Consider that in 2Kings 6:12-17, David danced before the Ark of the Covenant. Dancing is also spoken of by the women of Israel when they danced in joy after their safety through the Red Sea. Dirty dancing or grinding in dancing, however, can be an expression of sexuality and affords an occasion which can lead young people into sin. Ballroom dancing, forms of modern dance, square dancing, and folk dancing are among the many forms that are acceptable. The enjoyment of dance does not have to be dirty to be enjoyed with your partner. - CatholicView Staff Dear Father, I am writing for my sister who is 56 years old, the mother of two fine sons. She was married in the church, after the second son was born her husband announced he did not have enough love in his heart for more than 1 child. The firstborn was his obsession. By the time her 2nd little boy was three and becoming very aware that Daddy only liked his brother. She went for counseling - he would not. He refused to work. Meanwhile she was teaching at a Catholic school - finally when there was no reasoning or keeping him to help to took the two children left him and moved in with my husband, children and I. She was able to get a teaching position in the public schools and has been here ever since. Meanwhile her former husband and her were divorced. He paid no alimony and refused to even visit the children, etc. A few years after the divorce she married our neighbor who was also divorced but not Catholic in a civil ceremony. This current husband is now dying of kidney failure. Our question is, can she receive communion as the church does not recognize the 2nd marriage? She has looked into an annulment but cannot consider that for the sake of her grown sons. To her an annulment would be not recognizing their existence. They are catholic, educated young men. She will not and cannot do anything that would ever make them feel less of themselves or their place in the church. The big question is can she receive Communion. She is still Catholic, goes to Mass, but will not take communion until a priest tells her it is okay. When Jesus broke the bread and passed the wine nowhere do I see that he asked for certificates, etc. All he wanted was for those to believe in him, follow him, and be good disciples. Am I write - telling her to go to communion. I feel there is a big difference in what our lord wanted and what is now called Cannon Law. Help us please.
Dear Peggy: I am saddened by your sister’s terrible experience with her first husband. She certainly does have an annulment case. An annulment does not negate the existence of the first marriage or the "status" of the two sons. The annulment is a statement from the Church saying that the marriage was not sacramental, not joined by Jesus Christ to be a living symbol of Christ's love for the Church ("what God has joined, let no one separate.") In the annulment process, a question must be answered: did God join this marriage? Not all marriages are joined by God but by a person's willing it against God's Will. I wish she would consider seeking an annulment of her first marriage. This annulment DOES NOT IN ANY WAY change the status of her children (such as saying that they are illegitimate...really there is NO SUCH THING as illegitimate children in God's eyes since all are created in his image no matter the situation). In an annulment proceeding, the Church recognizes that a civil union existed. The Church's jurisdiction asks if the marriage was a sacramental one (valid). As for receiving communion, divorce does not keep a person from the communion altar....divorce and remarriage does. So, your sister cannot receive communion until this marital situation is fixed. But she does have a case for an annulment. She should talk to her parish priest about it! - CatholicView Staff
CatholicView: What is your view (as a priest and a person), on abortion and would you cast out anyone who has committed it? - James Dear James: If an abortion happens naturally, there is no grounds for moral judgment or need for forgiveness because it is an involuntarily act. Abortion becomes a sin when an abortion is sought and made to happen by unnatural means. The Church’s position says that grave moral wrong has been done. Abortion is spoken of in Exodus 21: 22-24 which states: "If men who are fighting hit a pregnant woman and she gives birth prematurely but there is no serious injury, the offender must be fined whatever the woman's husband demands and the court allows. But if there is serious injury, you are to take life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot. (Evangelium Vitae 62). "Therefore, by the authority which Christ conferred upon Peter and his successors . . . I declare that direct abortion, that is, abortion willed as an end or as a means, always constitutes a grave moral disorder, since it is the deliberate killing of an innocent human being. This doctrine is based upon the natural law and upon the written word of God, is transmitted by the Church’s tradition and taught by the ordinary and universal magisterium. No circumstance, no purpose, no law whatsoever can ever make licit an act which is intrinsically illicit, since it is contrary to the law of God which is written in every human heart, knowable by reason itself, and proclaimed by the Church" If a person has an abortion, they must immediately seek God’s forgiveness for this is an seriously evil and mortal sin. Fortunately, through the mercy of our Savior Jesus Christ, abortion can be forgiven and that person must promise never, ever to take the life of a living and unborn being. Here is a link that may be helpful: http://www.catholic.com/library/Abortion.asp . Hope this helps a bit. – CatholicView Staff
CatholicView Staff: I'm a catholic joining the US army as a chaplain's aide. I would like to be educated, and eventually become a chaplain proper, but I also feel the pull toward marriage. Can Deacons be ordained as a chaplain? I will be in basic training soon, so please also send your response to my email address if you have time to answer this question.
Eugene: At this time, ordained deacons cannot act as military chaplains (who knows what the future holds...that's up to the Archdiocese for the Military Services USA). I do encourage you in your choice to be a chaplain's assistant! You are being asked to make sure all the mechanics of the chapel programs go as planned and without any problems. You will be trusted with money, materials, and the chaplain's protection (you get to carry the weapons) as part of a chaplain team. I am excited for you! Sometimes, this role as chaplain's assistant can be somewhat discouraging as you will be asked to pay attention to all the details of ministry without actually participating in ministry. I am happy that you are pursuing a military career as a chaplain's assistant. Once again, you will be handling the mechanics of the chapel program while not being involved in ministry. The Archdiocese for the Military Service USA has already discussed the idea of allowing deacons as military chaplains. So far, only priests are allowed to be military chaplains endorsed by the Catholic Church. One of the questions about the role of deacons is the rank system of the military. What would be the rank of a military deacon? An officer? A warrant officer? These are some of the practical questions such as the deacon not being able to say Mass, hear confessions, and administering the Anointing of the Sick (last rites) especially on the battle field. A deacon can baptize, preside at marriages, lead funerals, preach at Mass and preside at communion services without Mass. A deacon and priest can spiritually advise and counsel. So, there is still discussion about the future of deacons as military chaplains. You can contact the Archdiocese for the Military Services USA at this web site: http://www.milarch.org/ But you will see with your own eyes the wonder of God's presence and the fragility of the human minister. You will be living an exciting life. God bless you in your chaplain assistant career. I hope that you will stay for 20 years...at least! -CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: I am currently going through RCIA. I have been attending Catholic Mass, and wish to become Catholic. I went to Catholic University, where I decided to practice the Catholic faith, and was told by a priest there that I could celebrate the Eucharist since I had been baptized in another Christian church. I noticed in my missalette this past Sunday that that is possible with permission of your diocese. I now live in a different diocese, and have been participating in mass and communion. Is this wrong? It would be terrible to me if I had been communing in error, yet, it would also be terrible to know that I could not come to the mass as usual. I am quite confused, and just want to participate in mass and communion. RCIA takes about eight months, and I think I'll be crushed to know that I have to abstain from mass for that time. - Tara
Dear Tara: I want to applaud you for going forward with your faith in the Lord. There is one point however I wish to make. Attending a Catholic University does not make you a Catholic as you already know since you are going through RCIA to fully participate in the community of the Catholic Church. Unfortunately until you complete RCIA, you cannot enjoy the same privileges as a fully initiated Catholic, but that does not mean you cannot go to mass. You are in the stage of becoming a full-fledged member so there is no reason why you cannot enjoy the mass and then go for a blessing from the presiding priest or the Minister of the Eucharist at the time of communion. Please address your concerns to your parish priest and adhere to what he tells you. Know that God is very pleased with your persistence in wanting to share in the body and blood of His Son, Jesus Christ. Welcome to our Catholic faith. – CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: I was raised a Catholic, but have lost all faith. How do I KNOW that there is a God, and what His nature is, and the nature of life and death? I need evidence or personal experience, not just statements of fact. What can you recommend? - Thomas Thomas: "Seek not to understand that you may believe, but believe that you may understand." – St. Augustine. I am saddened to hear that you have lost your faith in God. If you are looking for tangible and concrete evidence, you will not find it. If a person opposes even the possibility of there being a God, then any evidence can be rationalized or explained away. If you are waiting for an affirmation, demanding that God send you evidence, you will be most likely sadly disappointed in your quest. If you are looking for a miracle or personal happening, you are in essence saying, "Prove Yourself, God", and God deals with the heart and the soul of us Christians. This is the thing called "Faith". No one can give you faith. You must be willing and open. YOU MUST BELIEVE. The scripture tells us "Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1) It is when you surrender your total Trust and Will to Him that your faith will be renewed, and through that renewal, the power of the Holy Spirit will verify and make known the existence of your heavenly Father Who is God. Pray. Ask God to open your heart and give you the ability to hear His voice. It is only through the full giving of yourself and being open to Him that you will grow in faith. But you must first have the sincere desire so God can renew your seed of faith that I believe is lying dormant within you, waiting for you to recognize it is there. When you acknowledge that intellect isn't enough and that faith has no explanation, then you will gain the knowledge and understanding you are searching for. Romans 1:19-21 tells us: "They know the truth about God because He has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see His invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. Yes, they knew God, but they wouldn’t worship Him as God or even give Him thanks. And they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like. As a result, their minds became dark and confused." I have great hopes for you, Thomas, for I can see you are open to truth. Keep searching. Jeremiah 29:13 states "And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart." Continue in prayer and listen quietly to what the Holy Spirit will make known to you. Put yourself in God’s Hands and watch your faith grow. God bless you always. – CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: We are a young couple married for about 18 months; both 23 years old. We already have one child (Brian) and just a month ago my wife, Liz, told me that she is pregnant again. We cannot afford to have more children. In our relationship, we have tried "calendar for women" as a contraceptive method yet we frequently make love. Apparently, our current contraceptive methods do not work and we are thinking to use other available sources. We recently read the Prevention Deception: How to Reduce Abortions by Richard M. Doerflinger (which is available in our Church. However, Richard does not provide solution to abortions; it seems that the only method that worked is abstinence. We are definitely pro-life; however, we cannot afford more children now. Please help. – Rob Dear Rob: Congratulations on the upcoming birth of your second child. What a blessing that God has bestowed on you and your wife! And God bless you for being pro-life! Addressing your concerns for future children, have you tried NFP or Natural Family;y Planning? This is an acceptable method that offers a natural way to determine with precision exactly when ovulation occurs. It even works with irregular period cycles. It is not like the old way of using "calendar" methods but is an improved method relying on several observable phenomena to determine the days in which pregnancy can occur. The couple abstains only during the days when pregnancy is likely to occur. It is based on sexual self-control, communication between the couple, and obedience to God. Rightful use of this method has been as successful as many artificial means. Many Catholic hospitals offer this service to teach couples how to use Natural Family Planning. Also, call your Archdiocese to inquire about NFP and where classes are being offered. After these sessions, most couples they feel confident and in control, because the solution calls for respect and obedience to the design of God for marriage, love, and the procreation of new life. They are faithful to God’s law and that of the Church, and yet are able to decide on a viable childbearing time as their financial means improve. The sessions are few but the teaching is in depth. Here are some links that may prove helpful to you: http://www.flrl.org/NaturalFamilyPlanning.htm God bless you and your family. CatholicView Staff
CatholicView Staff: Recently I attended Mass with a friend; first time experience. And I noticed that different books were used, one taken down in procession, another on the altar (that the priest read from, another that was on the lectern and another that the altar boy held for the priest to read from. After asking my friend I am more confused now than before I asked the question. Can you help me and break it down so a non- Catholic understands? PLEASE ANSWER BY E-MAIL, THANK YOU. benjamindriggers@yahoo.com - Ben Dear Ben: There are only THREE books used for the Mass: the Sacramentary, the Lectionary, and the Book of the Gospels, a book that ONLY contains the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The Sacramentary is the book of prayer that is used by all Catholics around the world and it contains the prayers used for Mass and other sacramental rites. The Lectionary is the Holy Bible. The Lectionary is split into daily readings used at Mass. Each day and each Sunday has different readings so that if a Catholic goes to Mass everyday for three years, that Catholic would have heard the entire Bible (well, almost). In the Mass, here is what you saw: The one taken in procession is the Book of the Gospels (Lectionary) and it contains the words of Jesus and it is placed either on the altar or the pulpit (ambo, lectern) until it is time to read from it. The book on the altar that the priest is PRAYING from is the Sacramentary and it contains the prayers of that day for the Mass. The book that the altar server (boy, as you say) brings to the priest is the Sacramentary (the same one that is on the altar) and the priest reads the opening and closing prayers of the Mass from the presider’s chair. – CatholicView Staff
CatholicView Staff: Two of my children were baptized in the hospitals where they were born, by the Priest affiliated with the hospital. We never had a formal church Baptism for them because I didn't think it was necessary to have it done twice. Now that my third son has been born and will have a formal church baptism, I am wondering if the Baptism for my other two children is valid. My oldest son is 6 and will begin classes for his first holy communion next year. Does he need to have some sort of formal Baptism before he can receive his communion? Dear Bev: The baptism of your two children at the hospital is valid! They are baptized. In the Catholic Church, the Sacrament of Baptism is not only the celebration of the initiation into the Church, but also an initiation into a local Christian community. The Sacrament of Baptism generally takes place in a hospital if the need is immediate and critical. The most appropriate place in which to celebrate this Sacrament is in the public setting of your parish church in the presence of the assembled Christian Community. However, your children are baptized. So be at peace. Please check with your parish priest in order to get clarification concerning your situation. – CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: My husband (who is not Catholic) has scheduled a vasectomy. He is supportive of my faith and raising our two children Catholic, and our marriage was convalidated in the church two years ago ( we have been married for 11--- I had left the Church, but was reunited to Her 3 years ago). He is 52 and I am 43, but still fertile I believe. I, too, feel uncertain about having any more children, but have not practiced birth control since returning to the Church. He has some medical issues that cause him to have little desire, so abstinence has been our chief mode of "birth control". We actually have a wonderful marriage-- sex is really the only thing missing. He wants a vasectomy because part of our lack of sexual intimacy is due to his fear I will get pregnant. He knows my faith proscribes birth control and vasectomy, but what is my obligation? I told him I don't want him to, but not very forcefully. Will I be able to have sex with him after the vasectomy and still go to Communion? Part of me feels his relief in not worrying about becoming pregnant will help us in our intimacy. He feels he is too old to have any more kids-- ours are 3 and 5 now. Although I do not push it at all, my hope is he may one day be Catholic. He will attend church with us and we send our children to catholic school. I don't know what to do. Thank you, Lee
Dear Laura: As you know, our Church prohibits the use of artificial birth control. Vasectomy is always out of the question in Catholic moral teaching. Because the Church teaches that marriage is for pro-creative measures, vasectomies are not permitted under Catholic "law" because it is a form of birth control. In a sexual act, you must leave the possibility of human life entirely in the hands of God. With contraception or in this case, a vasectomy, you are taking the power of God into your own hands. You ask if you can still participate in the Sacrament of Communion should your husband go through with the vasectomy. Depending on the circumstances, it may be his mortal sin and your venial sin. It will be up to your confessor(s) to sort out. In any case, I suggest you talk to your parish priest, either with your husband or alone. – CatholicView Staff
CatholicView Staff: What exactly do Catholics believe? I am interested in converting. Sonya
Dear Sonya: Here is what we believe: We believe in God the Father
Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen. We believe in one
Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God. Eternally begotten of the Father. God from God,
Light from Light, True God from True God. Begotten not made. Through Him all things were
made. For us men and for our salvation, He came down from heaven. By the power of the Holy
Spirit, He was born of the Virgin Mary and became man. For our sake He was crucified under
Pontius Pilate. He suffered, died and was buried. On the third day, He rose again in
fulfillment of the scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of
God the Father, the Almighty. From there He shall come to judge the living and the dead.
And His Kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church,
the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body and life
everlasting. Amen! http://www.anawim.pair.com/CATHOLICS/INFO.htm Here are more links that you might find useful in your quest. There is also a book you can purchase. You may go to below to find out more. http://www.amazon.com/Catholics-Really-Believe-Setting-Record-Straight/dp/0898705533. The book sells for around $11.00. Hope this helps. CatholicView Staff CatholicView: I would like to know the Catholic Church’s current stance on Freemasonry. From what I understand Catholics who become a Mason face excommunication. - Steve Dear Steve: Here is the Catholic Church’s stance on Free Masonry: QUAESITUM EST It has been asked whether there has been any change in the Church's decision in regard to Masonic associations since the new Code of Canon Law does not mention them expressly, unlike the previous code. This sacred congregation is in a position to reply that this circumstance is due to an editorial criterion which was followed also in the case of other associations likewise unmentioned inasmuch as they are contained in wider categories. Therefore, the Church's negative judgment in regard to Masonic associations remains unchanged since their principles have always been considered irreconcilable with the doctrine of the Church and, therefore, membership in them remains forbidden. The faithful, who enroll in Masonic associations are in a state of grave sin and may not receive Holy Communion. It is not within the competence of local ecclesiastical authorities to give a judgment on the nature of Masonic associations which would imply a derogation from what has been decided above, and this in line with the declaration of this sacred congregation issued Feb. 17,1981. In an audience granted to the undersigned cardinal prefect, the Supreme Pontiff John Paul II approved and ordered the publication of this declaration which had been decided in an ordinary meeting of this sacred congregation. Rome, from the Office of the Sacred Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, Nov. 26, 1983 Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger Prefect Father Jerome Hamer, O. P. Titular Archbishop of Lorium This is the Church’s stance on Free Masonry. I am adding a link you might want to explore: www.netins.net/showcase/clearlight/mason2.html - CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: How would you advise a married couple if one person had HIV/AIDs and the other did not? I'm studying public health and I'm not sure what I should be advocating. Complete abstinence? Self-sacrifice on the part of the non-infected spouse? Please help. Thank you and God bless. - Claire
Dear Claire: This is something you should discuss with a qualified medical person. It involves a possible infection to another person and therefore certain steps would have to be taken to prevent passing along this dangerous disease. The concern will always be for the non-infected partner, and the decision to have marital sex has to be a mutual agreement with full disclosure from the infected spouse that aids is present. In this case I think the couple would need to talk at length with a physician to determine if and how this disease will affect the marriage, the important part being the possibility of misjudgment. – CatholicView Staff
CatholicView Staff: I know the Catholic viewpoint on pornography, that it is wrong, but does this theory also apply to cartoon pornography? James Dear James: The Catholic viewpoint is the same on pornography whatever way it is presented to the public. This industry uses pornography in various obscene ways to exploit people and get them to continue to buy their products. We must focus on heeding God’s call to purity and chaste living, avoiding the occasion of sin or indulging ourselves in activities that do not reflect our Christian life. Pornography can become an addiction; one that is hard to give up. Do not fall victim to this activity, for it can destroy the Christian spirituality of those caught up in its web. We must avoid it at all costs and not be lead into believing that because it comes under the guise of cartoons, it is not pornography. It is a very real and growing problem however presented and the Church forbids it. The Church asks us to focus on "the dignity of our human body, and God’s call for us to live in purity of mind and chastity. - CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: Is oral sex between a married couple (man & woman) wrong, considering that ejaculation wouldn't occur, where it would not give birth? Is it not expressing physical love for each other? - Dan Dear Dan: The Catholic Church continues to teach that sexual love between a married couple is both sacred and good. Oral sex is not a true expression of love but involves lust rather than marital love. It is contrary to natural law. The spouse is not the focus of the sexual foreplay. It is sexual stimulation that is a detriment that is damaging to real love and marriage. Sexual love in marriage must always preserve and include both unitive and procreative dimensions; therefore any action, which deviates from this design, is intrinsically evil. Pope Pius XII taught: "The question is: ‘Is oral sex as foreplay 'within the limits of just moderation'?" There are reasons to maintain that it is not and is therefore damaging to true marital love." - CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: I pray my rosary every day. I understand that one of the promises from Mary is for "signal graces". What is a "signal grace"? - Suzanne Dear Suzanne: A signal grace is sign that we can see and recognize and it gives us a a confirmation or personal answer about a situation or crisis. It can be a verse in the bible that gives assurance to us about something, or it might be a phone call from someone that clarifies an issue we have been worrying about or other signals. A signal grace is usually understandable only by the one who receives it. It is usually small "nudge" so to speak to lead one in the right direction. Hope this helps a bit. – CatholicView Staff
CatholicView Staff:
Dear Carol: 1 Corinthians 6:13 tells us "The body, however, is not for immorality, but for the Lord." Tongue kissing among unmarried people can lead to bigger sins as it imitates the sexual act and causes sexual stimulation that can lead to sexual intercourse. It is an occasion of sin that should be avoided, if one wants to be faithful to their Christian chastity. – CatholicView Staff
CatholicView Staff: I've made a very dear (female) friend that my wife's having trouble receiving. It started in Feb of 2007 when my wife's mother was diagnosed with cancer. "Mom" moved in with us where we tried to care for her as best and as long as we could before moving her into a hospice facility where she died last month. Marianne, my friend, at our request of our parish, started coming to our home 3x each week with Eucharist for mom. They became very close over those seven months. Marianne became a huge spiritual influence in my life and motivated me back into my faith. I had 12-years of Catholic schooling under my belt, so her influence really accelerated my love for Jesus as never before. I am absolute hooked on His love now and am so hungry for giving more through worship and discovering His graces. Marianne is a true sister to me now. She is my faith companion and I love spending time with discussing His will and blessings. My wife seems to resent our friendship and depth of our communication, though we do everything trying to include her and all my family (three children). I cannot allow myself to give up such an important friend, a friend unlike any other I've ever had. Yet I'm tired of dealing with my wife's resentment. Something's gotta give, and I pray (correctly?) that it's my wife's attitude. – John Dear John: It is wonderful that you have found such joy in the Lord by sharing in your faith. However, CatholicView does not think it is your wife’s attitude that needs changing but your own. Perhaps this lady whom you say is a true sister is unaware that she is causing problems within your marriage. In learning more about our Lord from another woman, you are allowing your marriage to to become second in your time and energy. Where is your focus? Your wife is unhappy with your relationship with this lady from your parish because in her eyes she is causing a breech within your marriage. Your wife comes first before all others. The bible is clear on this issue. "But a married man has to think about his earthly responsibilities and how to please his wife." 1 Corinthians 7:33. Your wife has just lost her mother a short time ago and she needs your attention for she is still in grief. She is not to be included as an afterthought or ignored in your religious discussions with Marianne; she is your life partner. Get your life together and think of the grief you are causing. Be grateful for the things you learned from this lady but it is time to move away and concentrate on giving your wife the time, comfort, and compassion she deserves at this time. "In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives. Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but she is your equal partner in God’s gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered." 1Peter 3:7. Please talk to your priest immediately to put your life in perspective. CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: What is your view on grace? I’m curious if you feel people are saved through grace. Is that grace sufficient to cover all sins? Can you be saved by grace, go to heaven, even if you are not out doing the works of Jesus? - Wendy Wendy: Ephesians2:8-9 states "God saved us by His grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it." Notice that Ephesians tells us "when we believe". It is through God’s grace and our belief that we do good works for as St. James 2:26 puts it "Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works." The Catechism (#1996) tells us: "Our justification comes from the grace of God. Grace is favor, the free and undeserved help that God gives us to respond to His call to become children of God, adoptive sons, partakers in the divine nature and eternal life." "If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom." James 3:13. – CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: This may seem odd, but I must ask. Years ago, we were selling our home, and I buried a St. Joseph statue in the yard. The home sold, but I did not dig up St. Joseph! Now we are trying to sell another home, have had terrible trouble. Should I inquire of the new owners to dig the statue up and send it to me? - Sandra
Dear Sandra: Please do not place importance on your statue. The statue is not the reason why a property is sold or not. It is your sustaining faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ, Who will bless you in all things. We do not always understand everything such as why the selling of your home is a problem, but the Lord knows the desires of your heart. It could be the real estate market or the demand for property could be at a low ebb right now, but know God already has set a time for you to sell your home. Depend on Him. Depend on Jesus Christ to help you. Do not put your trust in inanimate objects but depend on our living God to help you in all things. He waits for you to come to Him in prayer and trust and He will come through for you in ways you can’t see at this time. Just be patient. If you must, you can always acquire another statue at your local religious goods store. – CatholicView Staff
CatholicView Staff: Is a diocesan priest expected to sell personal property, such as a car or boat, or may he keep such things? - Molly Dear Molly: Thank you for your inquiry. Since the diocesan priest does not take a vow of poverty, he may keep all things belonging to him. – CatholicView Staff CatholicView Staff: I desperately want my 17 month old child to be baptized, however my husband does not believe in "religious rituals". My local churches will not allow the ceremony without his participation. What should I do? – Kris
Dear Kris: It saddens me to hear of your situation. But you are not alone. Your child is innocent and free from sin and our Heavenly Father knows this. He also knows that you have tried to have your child baptized. Pray hard for your baby, and for your husband that he will come to see what he is denying you. Remember, there will come a time when your child will make the final decisions on wanting to be baptized. The Lord understands what you are going through. Be at peace, knowing that even now, the Lord has a plan for you and your young one. – CatholicView Staff.
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