Ten Commandments vs Beatitudes


Question from Bill on 10/27/2007:


Dear Fr. Levis: What is your opinion of a CCD coordinator that has told her catechists to emphasize the Beatitudes over the Ten Commandments as they put our Faith in a more positive light? I just do not understand this justification as most of the students in this program cannot articulate the Commandments by the time they have reached seventh grade. This is not to say that they have not heard them but they have surely forgotten them. Thanks, Bill

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/30/2007:

Bill, The Ten Commandments are essential, should be memorized and well understood. They remain the basis for the Beatitudes. Fr. Bob Levis

god parents for baptism


Question from ted proia on 10/23/2007:

can grandparents be god parents

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/24/2007:

Yes, Ted, I think godparents can so serve as godparents. Fr. Bob Levis

Canon Law regarding Sunday worship and rest


Question from Vivian on 10/20/2007:

I have 2 questions.

First, does any part of Canon law address Sunday worship and rest?

Second, regarding a friend who keeps his fish market open on Sundays for business, is that a sin against the 3rd commandment because it is unnecessary work? He keeps the shop open 7 days a week but goes to Mass on Sundays.

Answer by Rev. Mark J. Gantley, JCL on 10/21/2007:

Canon 1247 states: "On Sundays and other holy days of obligation, the faithful are obliged to participate in the Mass. Moreover, they are to abstain from those works and affairs which hinder the worship to be rendered to God, the joy proper to the Lord's Day, or the suitable relaxation of mind and body."

I would recommend that you read the 1998 Apostolic Letter of Pope John Paul II Dies Domini: http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/apost_letters/documents/hf_jp- ii_apl_05071998_dies-domini_en.html

Eucharistic Minister

Question from Anonymous on 10/20/2007:

I was hoping you could answer this because the spirituality bin isnt open I had thought before i was being a decent person, doing OK as a christian...at least I was told that by a confessor. However, I went to another confessor and he said I had been recieving communion and mortal sin-not in venial sin like I was told. Basically, i am doing much worse than I thought. Lately, I have also been feeling Very angry at God. Sounds bad-yes, but its true. Unfortunately, I had signed on to be a Eucharistic Minister and with the state I am in and my ambivalent feelings towars God I dont know if I should...Its just our pastor said everyone should join a church ministry and be involved so I felt guilty and joined. It sounded like a good thing at the time, but I am such a lousy person so I dont know. I dont want to be irresonsible though and go back on my commitment. What should I do?

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/22/2007:

dear Anon, You need to have a long talk about these negative feelings with your spiritual director, your priest. Call him today. Fr. Bob Levis

Sacrament of Marriage


Question from anonymous on 10/18/2007:

Dear Fr. Levis,

When I was married over 20 years ago I was in a state of mortal sin. I have since gone to confession. My concern is that I feel there was no sacrament. I realize the God has forgiven me but does that automatically make a marriage sacramential. It was not on the day I took my vows. At least I don't think it was because of my sins. Please help me to understand this. Thank you so much for your time.

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/20/2007:

Anon, When you married in sin, you truly received the Sacrament of Matrimony on that day but not the grace of this Sacrament. The day you confessed your sins and were restored to grace, on that day, yes the grace of the Sacrament was given to you by God. Fr. Bob Levis

Akita and the warning.


Question from Rocco Jr. on 10/1/2007:

As you know, the apparition of Mary at Akita, Japan was approved by Pope Benidict XVI when he was a Carninal. I believe it. Mary stated on Oct 13, 1973;

"My dear daughter, listen well to what I have to say to you. You will inform your superior." "As I told you, if men do not repent and better themselves, the Father will inflict a terrible punishment on all humanity. It will be a punishment greater than the deluge, such as one will never seen before. Fire will fall from the sky and will wipe out a great part of humanity, the good as well as the bad, sparing neither priests nor faithful. The survivors will find themselves so desolate that they will envy the dead. The only arms which will remain for you will be the Rosary and the Sign left by My Son. Each day recite the prayers of the Rosary. With the Rosary, pray for the Pope, the bishops and priests." "The work of the devil will infiltrate even into the Church in such a way that one will see cardinals opposing cardinals, bishops against bishops. The priests who venerate me will be scorned and opposed by their confreres...churches and altars sacked; the Church will be full of those who accept compromises and the demon will press many priests and consecrated souls to leave the service of the Lord.... "The demon will be especially implacable against souls consecrated to God. The thought of the loss of so many souls is the cause of my sadness. If sins increase in number and gravity, there will be no longer pardon for them"

This message also appears in the last chapter of the Book of Zechariah in the last chapter when it reads that two thirds of all the nations will be wiped out and the living will envy the dead.

Then I heard that there will be a warning where humans will see themselves as God sees him/her, a miracle which no one can touch and followed by a chastisement. As I was told, there is a man who will have his eye site restored (he appeared on EWTN with Mother Angelica some years ago) prior to the warning. I was told that this man is in his late '70's so this prophecy cannot be too far off.

What is your take or what does the Catholic Church think about this? Rocco

Answer by David Gregson on 10/26/2007:

The apparitions at Akita were approved by Bishop Ito, the local ordinary, in 1984, apparently with some consultation with the Holy See. That's not to the say the Holy See gave formal recognition to the apparitions. Cardinal Ratzinger apparently expressed confidence in the apparitions, but again that's not the same as formal recognition. Until there is formal recognition from Rome, I would regard the apparitions as credible but not certain.

Vocation Video Wins Award

 

Film Hailed as "Extremely Moving"

WASHINGTON, D.C., OCT. 26, 2007 (Zenit.org).- The U.S. bishops' video promoting priestly vocations -- called by one viewer "the best look at the priesthood I have ever seen on film" -- was named winner of the Gabriel Award.
"Fishers of Men," an 18-minute DVD that is part of a vocational recruitment project launched last year by the U.S. episcopal conference, received today the Gabriel Award in California, given by the Catholic Academy for Communication Arts Professionals.
More than 60,000 copies of the video, produced by Grassroots Films of Brooklyn, New York, have been distributed. The bishops' project takes into account that a 2007 survey sponsored by the vocations secretariat reported that 80% of newly ordained priests in the United States say a priest invited them to consider the vocation.
“I thought it was extremely moving," said the U.S. bishops' conference general secretary, Monsignor David Malloy, "and it sort gave that great reminder for why we got in this in the first place. In fact, I would love for my nephews to see it at some point.”
The video, combining images, music and testimonies, reveals many elements of the daily life of a priest. A dramatic representation of a priest giving last rites to a dying boy shows how the example of the priests' ministry can inspire vocations.
Another viewer, David Morton, said he was "moved to tears."
Joseph Campo, producer of "Fishers of Men," said the production staff has "always had a positive view and appreciation of the Catholic priesthood throughout the world, and we are grateful for the opportunity to portray what it means to be a priest in the film, 'Fishers of Men.'"
"Serious filmmakers always work to produce something of extraordinary artistic quality," he continued. "When the work can serve a noble goal such as inviting men to the priesthood, it’s doubly rewarding for the artists.”
Popular
Monsignor Edward Burns, executive director of the episcopal conference's Secretariat for Vocations and Priestly Formation, noted the broad reception of the DVD and the project.
“This program has reached almost 50% of our dioceses and is now going international,” he said. “Nineteen countries have contacted us regarding this program. It is not only a resource for the church in the United States but hopefully a resource for the Church universal. The testimonies of young men who have watched this production have made it all worthwhile.”
Bishop Blase Cupich of Rapid City, chairman of the episcopal Committee on Vocations, said the project has exceeded expectations.
“'Fishers of Men' has appeal across the board and reminds all Catholics why they treasure their priests,” Bishop Cupich said. “Anyone interested in the priesthood, whatever his age, responds to the DVD’s message: The priesthood is a call to service.
“With modern cinematography the filmmakers have captured the timeless calling of the priesthood: Follow and be like Jesus.”
The trailer of the video can be seen at http://ccc.usccb.org/video/fishers_of_men1.wmv.

Cardinal Urges Faithful to See "Bella"

 

Film's Lead Actor Considered Catholic Role Model

HOLLYWOOD, California, OCT. 26, 2007 (Zenit.org).- The film "Bella" is destined to have an extraordinary impact on people's lives, said the chairman of the U.S bishops' conference committee on pro-life activities.
Cardinal Justin Rigali, archbishop of Philadelphia, said the film, released today in the United States, "has a message that is so connected to life: to the problems of life, the challenges of life, the value of life." The cardinal wrote to his fellow bishops encouraging them to host advanced screenings of "Bella" with the hope of spreading the film's message.
The film won the 2006 People's Choice Award at the Toronto Film Festival.
"Bella" is a story about a young pregnant woman who loses her job, and a man who is unable to recover from a tragic accident in his past. Their friendship changes their lives and brings new hope to both.
The film features actors Eduardo Verástegui, Tammy Blanchard, Manual Pérez and Ali Landry.
Verástegui, a teen heartthrob during his years as a professional musician and actor, is now known as a Catholic role model. After a spiritual conversion that brought him back to Catholicism, he is now an outspoken defender of the right to life, chastity and his faith.
In a Spanish-language interview with the Eternal Word Television Network in July, Verástegui noted that he has clear "the purpose of my life, of our lives -- I was not called or born to be an actor, nor created to be famous, nor rich, nor an engineer, a doctor, a success. I was called to be a saint."
Alejandro Monteverde directed and co-wrote "Bella," produced by Metanoia Films. Steve McEveety, producer of "Braveheart" and "The Passion of the Christ," was the executive producer.
To locate a theater showing "Bella," see www.bellathemovie.com.

Three Church of Ireland parishes seek to become Catholic, move could bring in 400,000 Anglicans

 

Dublin, Oct 26, 2007 / 02:30 pm (CNA).- Three Church of Ireland parishes have asked to be received into full communion with the Catholic Church, The Irish Catholic newspaper reports this week.  The decision would pave the way for over 400,000 Anglicans to become Catholic.

The parishes, located in the counties Down, Tyrone and Laois, are members of the traditional rite of the Church of Ireland.  The rite emerged in 1991 after the House of Bishops of the Church of Ireland decided to start ordaining women.  Traditionalist Anglicans rejected this decision as a "defiance of both Scripture and Tradition."

A plenary meeting of the Traditional Anglican Communion, the umbrella organization for traditionalist parishes, decided to petition Rome to be received into full communion with the Holy See. While only a few hundred Anglicans in Ireland will be affected if an agreement is reached, the Traditional Anglican Communion itself has over 400,000 members who could all join the Catholic Church. 

According to a statement from the Traditional Anglican Communion, "the bishops and vicars-general unanimously agreed to the text of a letter to the See of Rome seeking full, corporate, sacramental union."

A spokesman said "the letter was cordially received at the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith."

"The Primate of the Traditional Anglican Communion has agreed that no member of the College will give interviews until the Holy See has considered the letter and responded," he said.

This petition for corporate communion is very rare, though there have been many individual conversions.  Recently the wife of the Church of Ireland Bishop of Killala, Anita Henderson, was received into the Catholic Church in a private ceremony.

In cases of American Protestant ministers converting to Catholicism, a "pastoral provision" allows some married ministers to be ordained as priests.  "Anglican Use" Catholic Parishes also use a liturgy similar to that of Anglican Christians.  It is not yet clear what accommodations may be made for Traditional Anglican Communion parishes.

Muslim group attends Catholic Mass in Malaysian "breakthrough"

 

Kuching, Oct 26, 2007 / 11:24 am (CNA).- A Muslim group's recent visit to a Catholic Church in Malaysia is being called a breakthrough in grassroots interreligious dialogue.

On October 14, ten Muslims sat in the pews at Mass at Holy Trinity Church in Kuching.  Several Church sources told UCA News they were sure this had not happened in the history of the Archdiocese of Kuching and had not heard of it happening anywhere else in Malaysia either.

Malaysia is a majority-Muslim country.  Out of a population of 26 million people, 60 percent are Muslim, 19 percent are Buddhist, 9 percent are Christians and 6 percent are Hindu.

Christians and Muslims commonly believe that Muslims are forbidden even to enter a church.  Led by Shah Kirit Kakakul Govindji of the Islamic Information and Services Foundation, the Muslim visitors initiated the visit themselves.  Shah Kirit explained that the purpose of the visit was to discover similarities and common traditions shared by Muslims and Christians, and to respectfully "agree to disagree" on differences.  

Archbishop John Ha Tiong Hock of Kuching supported the visit.

After Mass the parish priest invited the visitors and the parish council to breakfast and a session of interreligious dialogue.  The Muslim visitors asked about the various denominations of Christianity, training for the Catholic priesthood, the Church's ministries and apostolic work, and Christ's Second Coming.

One parish council member said the meeting created "a sense of amazement."

At the request of the parish, Shah Kirit promised to send them English-language copies of the Qu'ran.  The two groups have discussed a reciprocal visit by Catholics to a mosque.

Vocations DVD wins Hollywood award

 

New York, Oct 26, 2007 / 11:14 am (CNA).- Fishers of Men, a DVD created to inspire vocations to the priesthood, has been awarded the Gabriel Award for its quality depiction of the priestly life.

The fast-paced video shows many facets of priestly service through the personal testimony of active priests.  It also features a dramatic re-enactment that suggests how a priest can inspire vocations.  It is intended to renew priests' sense of fulfillment in their vocation while inviting other men to consider the priesthood. 

The place of priests in seminarian recruitment is vital.  Eighty percent of newly ordained priests in the United States say a priest invited them to consider the priesthood.

The video was developed by the United States Council of Catholic Bishops' Committee on Vocations.  More than 60,000 copies of the DVD have been distributed nationwide and internationally.

Joseph Campo, producer of Fishers of Men, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to portray the priestly vocation.  “Serious filmmakers always work to produce something of extraordinary artistic quality,” he said. “When the work can serve a noble goal such as inviting men to the priesthood, it’s doubly rewarding for the artists.”

Bishop Blase Cupich of Rapid City, South Dakota lauded the video.   “Anyone interested in the priesthood, whatever his age, responds to the DVD’s message: The priesthood is a call to service," he said.  “With modern cinematography the filmmakers have captured the timeless calling of the priesthood: Follow and be like Jesus.”

Monsignor Edward J. Burns, Executive Director of the USCCB Secretariat for Vocations and Priestly Formation, described the program's success:

“This program has reached almost 50 percent of our dioceses and is now going international,” he said. “Nineteen countries have contacted us regarding this program. It is not only a resource for the church in the United States but hopefully a resource for the church universal. The testimonies of young men who have watched this production have made it all worthwhile.”

The Gabriel Awards are sponsored by the Catholic Academy for Communications Arts Professionals to honor works of excellence in broadcasting.

The Fishers of Men trailer can be viewed at http://ccc.usccb.org/video/fishers_of_men1.wmv

40 days for life


Question from lmf on 10/22/2007:

Dear Judie, I happen to live very near an abortion clinic and am forced to drive past it often. Truth be told, I never really thought to much about it as I have never been in that situation nor has anyone I know, that I know of anyhow. I have seen the 40 days for life people out there on the sidewalk and have beeped my support with a friendly wave. Today it was raining, cold and windy. They were out there. I seen 2 girls going to walk in there and one of the ladies simply got up walked to them and offered them a flower. They kept going and I started to cry as all I could think of was that girl is going to kill her little flower. How very sad. So the 40 days of life people have done more I am sure for not just the people having an abortion, but the rest of us too. I think next time around I am going to do my duty and march. If it saves one little flower praise GOD!! Thank you Judie for all you do. God is watching over you. L.M.F.

Answer by Judie Brown on 10/23/2007:

Dear LMF

Thank you for this amazing message!

God be with you.

Re: Bella the Movie

Question from Connie on 10/22/2007:

I too am urging all my family and friends and you my EWTN family to go out and see this beautiful movie with a powerful message. We need to let Hollyweird know that we want good, clean family films with positive values and not the garbage they usually put out. So let's encourage everyone we know to go out and see this movie on opening weekend (October 26th) and turn it into a blockbuster!!! Call up your local theater and urge them to run this movie. Get the word out at your parish as well, perhaps include it in you parish bulletin. Log on to www.bellathemovie.com and forward the movie clip to all your email friends.This movie has already changed lives and has saved babies. Thank you Jesus!

Answer by Judie Brown on 10/23/2007:

Dear Connie

Praise be to God.

Judie Brown

Sacred Heart league


Question from Elizabeth on 10/23/2007:

Judy, Do you have any problems with the Sacred heart League in Mississippi? I have tried a few times to find a website but I am not very computer sauvy(SP?) and have had no luck. They constantly send me pamphlets asking for donations and I have sent money a few times but now am wondering if they are a "good" Catholic organization. Thank you for any help

Answer by Judie Brown on 10/24/2007:

Dear Elizabeth

I have been a donor of the Sacred Heart League for years. They are a wonderful organization.

Judie Brown

Music instead of Sacred Silence


Question from Bob Allard on 9/17/2007:

My pastor has insisted that the organist at our parish start playing music five minutes before the start of Mass on weekends. We previously had Sacred Silence until the entrance hymn. Many people have left our parish, but he will not change his mind.

What can we do to change his mind. Are there any Church documents pertaining to this that might help?

I am quite upset about many people leaving.

Answer by David Gregson on 10/24/2007:

It's hard to believe people would be distracted by organ music, tastefully selected and skillfully played. Either the selection is bad, or the organist plays too loudly, which can be a distraction in itself. Or perhaps you have misunderstood why people are leaving. In my experience, an organ prelude has at least this benefit. It discourages people from talking in the pews, which is even more distracting than bad music.

Born again


Question from anonymous on 9/17/2007:

please explain to me as to why born agains are wrong and the catholic church is right. please go further than the baptism. to make a long story short i have been typing my story probably 50 times now for these forums. so the problem is that my girlfriend is born again. i have been doing a lot of research and talkingto a lot of people so please go in depth.

thank you

Answer by David Gregson on 10/24/2007:

Your question, why the Catholic Church is right and Evangelical Protestants are wrong (wherever they disagree with us) would require an answer far too extensive for this forum. What I suggest is that you obtain a copy of the book Catholicism and Fundamentalism, by Karl Keating, a convert from Protestantism. It's not too expensive, and you can find it in our Religious Catalogue section on this website (or most online bookstores).

Genesis 18


Question from nick on 10/18/2007:

Father, Is there a catholic understanding of who the three persons were to whom Abraham was speaking ?

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/18/2007:

Nick, To my knowledge the three were angels sent by Yahweh. Fr. Bob Levis

am i guilty of mortal sin?


Question from joseph on 10/18/2007:

hello Father.,

i bought original copies of albums of songs and i copied those songs into my computer and transfered them to my cellphone so i can listen to them whenever i want because i dont have that portable cd player. i did not intend to send those songs to other cellphones. just on my own personal use. but still i think i am breaking copyright laws. am i guilty of mortal sin? thanks in advance father.

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/20/2007:

Joseph, YOu may be in violation of civil, positive law (I don't know what it says here), but surely not guilty of mortal sin, maybe not even venial sin.Fr. Bob Levis

Administering and Receiving Holy Communion


Question from Confused Catholic on 10/18/2007:

Dear Dr. Geraghty,

If the consecrated Sacred Host is TRULY the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Our Lord, which MAKES MORE SENSE? #l. a. Only the consecrated hands of a validly ordained priest can touch It?

b. Anyone can touch It?

#2

a. Standing to receive It? b. Kneeling to receive It?

These are strickly commonsense questions. Please answer in the simpliest way. Just answering a or b will suffice.

Thank you and God Bless You.

Answer by Richard Geraghty on 10/22/2007:

Dear Confused,

The Church is the only proper teacher about how Holy Communion is to be received. Since she allows extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist, she allows those who are not ordained to touch the host. She also allows those who are receiving communion to do so either standing or kneeling. Remember, the Church is our teacher in this matter. At one time she allowed only the priests to give out Holy Communion. In the past she also required everyone to kneel at the communion rail. But the Church has allowed other practices, which is her right.

Dr. Geraghty

The students are questioning the practice of All Saints and Souls Day?


Question from Cathy on 10/21/2007:

I teach 6th Grade REP and they are questioning the practice of all Saints and Souls Days they want more than what is in our Religious Education Books. History and practice of these days. Where can I pick up some more info that is brief and to the point. I did see the movie DVD option but I do not know if we have the budget to purchase it. Please help me Thanks, Cathy

I would have liked to know more of Doctrine as well but it is full.

Answer by Richard Geraghty on 10/22/2007:

Dear Cathy,

There is the Catholic Encyclopedia on line. There you will get a great deal of information on those two holy days. But don't think that supplying more information is going to make your students believers if they are already skeptical. The real power working is when the teacher professes that he or she believes in what the Church teaches. Here the children have the witness of an adult who takes all the teachings of the Church as the truth. Thus in your effort to supply more information impress upon the students that you believe in the teachings of the Church, not because you understand them all, not because you have approved of them one by one, but because you are a Catholic. And what Catholics do is to believe the Church as teaching in the name of God. This view, of course, does not fit the Protestant's view, which is based more on the Bible and more on opposition to the Church. So maybe you have to give a few lessons on the difference between Catholics and Protestants about the way each views the teaching authority of their respective churches.

Dr. Geraghty

Catholic Charities USA applauds House passage of modified children's health bill

 

Alexandria, VA, Oct 26, 2007 / 10:28 am (CNA).- "Catholic Charities USA applauds Congressional leaders on both sides of the aisle who came together to craft compromise legislation to reauthorize SCHIP," said Rev. Larry Snyder, president of Catholic Charities USA. The legislation-which modifies a bill vetoed by the President earlier this month-would still provide quality and affordable health care to nearly 10 million of the neediest children in our nation.

Renewing this vital program will provide health access to four million more uninsured children.  It also ensures that the 6 million children who are currently depending on SCHIP for medications and necessary medical procedures will continue being covered.

"The successful vote for the bipartisan compromise is not only a stand for low-income children, it is a stand for the future strength of our community, our country, and the common good.  The House vote today shows the leadership necessary to protect vulnerable, low-income children in our country, said Father Snyder.

The new bill will still provide $35 billion over five years to keep children already receiving health care coverage, and provide insurance to nearly four million more children whose health is at risk due to lack of proper health coverage. Additionally, the bill addresses some concerns over the previous legislation by clarifying who is eligible for health care and focusing on low-income children. The bill outlines a future maximum eligibility at 300 percent of the federal poverty level, while still preserving existing eligibility levels for any states that have been previously approved to expand its program.

"Catholic Charities USA urges the Senate and our President to support our nation's children and approve this bill," said Father Snyder.

Improving public policies that promote the health of children in the United States is a key component of Catholic Charities USA's Campaign to Reduce Poverty in America, which aims to cut poverty in half by 2020.

The Importance of Priestly Celibacy

 

by Cardinal Claudio Hummes

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At the beginning of the 40th anniversary of the publication of the Encyclical "Sacerdotalis Caelibatus" of His Holiness Paul VI, the Congregation for the Clergy deems it opportune to recall the magisterial teaching of this important papal document.

Indeed, priestly celibacy is Christ's precious gift to his Church, a gift one needs to meditate on anew and to strengthen, especially in today's profoundly secularized world.

Scholars note that the origins of priestly celibacy date back to apostolic times. Father Ignace de la Potterie writes: "Scholars generally agree that the obligation of celibacy, or at least of continence, became canon law from the fourth century onwards. ... However, it is important to observe that the legislators of the fourth and fifth centuries affirmed that this canonical enactment was based on an apostolic tradition.

"The Council of Carthage (390), for instance, said: 'It was fitting that those who were at the service of the divine sacraments be perfectly continent (continentes esse in omnibus), so that what the Apostles taught and antiquity itself maintained, we too may observe.'"1

In the same way, Alfons-Marie Stickler mentions biblical arguments of apostolic inspiration that advocate celibacy.2

Historical development

The Church's solemn Magisterium has never ceased to reaffirm the measures regulating ecclesiastical celibacy. The Synod of Elvira (300-303?) prescribed in canon 27: "A bishop, like any other cleric, should have with him either only one sister or consecrated virgin; it is established that in no way should he have an extraneous woman"; in canon 33: "The following overall prohibition for bishops, presbyters and deacons and for all clerics who exercise a ministry has been decided: they must abstain from relations with their wives and must not beget children; those who do are to be removed from the clerical state."3

Pope St. Siricius (384-399), in his "Letter to Bishop Himerius of Tarragona" dated February 10, 385, affirmed: "The Lord Jesus ... wished the figure of the Church, whose Bridegroom he is, to radiate with the splendor of chastity ... all of us as priests are bound by the indissoluble law of these measures ... so that from the day of our ordination we may devote our hearts and our bodies to moderation and modesty, to please the Lord our God in the daily sacrifices we offer to him."4

At the First Lateran Ecumenical Council of 1123, we read from canon 3: "We absolutely forbid priests, deacons or subdeacons to cohabit with concubines or wives and to cohabit with women other than those whom the Council of Nicea (325) permitted to live in the household."5

So too, at the 24th session of the Council of Trent, the absolute impossibility of contracting marriage for clerics bound by sacred orders or for male religious who had solemnly professed chastity was reasserted; and with it, the nullity of marriage itself was declared, together with the duty to ask God, with an upright intention, for the gift of chastity.6

In more recent times, the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council reaffirmed in the Decree on the Ministry and Life of Priests, "Presbyterorum Ordinis,"7 the close connection between celibacy and the Kingdom of God. It saw in the former a sign that radiantly proclaims the latter, the beginning of a new life to whose service the minister of the Church is consecrated.

With the encyclical "Sacerdotalis Caelibatus" of June 24, 1967, Paul VI kept a promise he had made to the Council Fathers two years earlier. In it, he examined the objections raised concerning the discipline of celibacy. Subsequently, by placing emphasis on their Christological foundation and appealing to history and to what we learn from the first-century documents about the origins of celibacy and continence, he fully confirmed their value.

The 1971 Synod of Bishops, both in the presynodal program "Ministerium Presbyterorum" (Feb. 15) and in the final document "Ultimis Temporibus" (Nov. 30), affirmed the need to preserve celibacy in the Latin Church, shedding light on its foundations, the convergence of motives and the conditions that encouraged it.8

The new Code of Canon Law of the Latin Church in 1983 reasserted the age-old tradition: "Clerics are obliged to observe perfect and perpetual continence for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven and therefore are obliged to observe celibacy, which is a special gift of God, by which sacred ministers can adhere more easily to Christ with an undivided heart and can more freely dedicate themselves to the service of God and humankind."9

Along the same lines, the 1990 synod resulted in the Apostolic Exhortation of the Servant of God, Pope John Paul II, "Pastores Dabo Vobis," in which the Pontiff presented celibacy as a radical Gospel requirement that especially favors the style of spousal life and springs from the priest's configuration to Jesus Christ through the sacrament of orders.10

The Catechism of the Catholic Church, published in 1992 and which gathers the first fruits of the great event of the Second Vatican Council, reaffirms the same doctrine: "All the ordained ministers of the Latin Church, with the exception of permanent deacons, are normally chosen from among men of faith who live a celibate life and who intend to remain celibate 'for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven.'"11

At the most recent Synod on the Eucharist itself, according to the preliminary unofficial draft of its final propositions authorized by Pope Benedict XVI, in proposition. 11, "the importance of the priceless gift of ecclesiastical celibacy in the practices of the Latin Church is recognized" despite the scarcity of clergy in certain parts of the world as well as the "Eucharistic hunger" of the People of God.

With the reference to the Magisterium, particularly that of the Second Vatican Council and of the most recent Pontiffs, the Fathers asked that the reasons for the relationship between celibacy and priestly ordination be properly described, with full respect for the tradition of the Eastern Churches. Some of them referred to the matter of the "viri probabi," but the hypothesis was judged to be a way not to be taken.

Only recently, on Nov. 16, 2006, Benedict XVI presided at one of the regular meetings held in the Apostolic Palace of the Heads of the Dicasteries of the Roman Curia. On that occasion, the value of the choice of priestly celibacy in accordance with the unbroken Catholic tradition was reasserted and the need for the sound human and Christian formation of seminarians and ordained priests was reaffirmed.

Reasons for holy celibacy

In his encyclical "Sacerdotalis Caelibatus," Paul VI begins by presenting the situation of priestly celibacy at that time, from the viewpoint of the appreciation of it and of the objections to it. His first words are crucial and ever timely: "Priestly celibacy has been guarded by the Church for centuries as a brilliant jewel, and retains its value undiminished even in our time when the outlook of men and the state of the world have undergone such profound changes."12

Paul VI revealed what he himself meditated upon, questioning himself on the subject in order to be able to respond to the objections. He concluded: "Hence, we consider that the present law of holy celibacy should today continue to be linked to the ecclesiastical ministry. This law should support the minister in his exclusive, definitive and total choice of the unique and supreme love of Christ and of the Church; it should uphold him in the entire dedication of himself to the public worship of God and to the service of the Church; it should distinguish his state of life both among the faithful and in the world at large."13

"It is true," the Pope added, "that virginity, as the Second Vatican Council declared, is not demanded of the priesthood by its nature. This is clear from the practice of the early Church and the tradition of the Eastern Churches (cf. "Presbyterorum Ordinis," no. 16). But at the same time the Council did not hesitate to confirm solemnly the ancient, sacred and providential present law of priestly celibacy. In addition, it set forth the motives which justify this law for those who, in a spirit of faith and with generous fervor, know how to appreciate the gifts of God."14

It is true. Celibacy is a gift that Christ offers to men called to the priesthood. This gift must be accepted with love, joy and gratitude. Thus, it will become a source of happiness and holiness.

Paul VI gave three reasons for sacred celibacy: its Christological, ecclesiological and eschatological significance.

Let us start with its Christological significance.

Christ is newness. He brings about a new creation. His priesthood is new. He renews all things. Jesus, the only-begotten Son of the Father sent into the world, "became man in order that humanity which was subject to sin and death might be reborn, and through this new birth might enter the Kingdom of Heaven."

"Being entirely consecrated to the will of the Father, Jesus brought forth this new creation by means of his Paschal Mystery; thus, he introduced into time and into the world a new form of life which is sublime and divine and which radically transforms the human condition."15

Natural marriage itself, blessed by God since creation but damaged by sin, was renewed by Christ, who "has raised it to the dignity of a sacrament and of a mysterious symbol of his own union with the Church. ... But Christ, 'Mediator of a more excellent covenant' (cf. Hebrews 8:6), has also opened a new way in which the human creature adheres wholly and directly to the Lord, and is concerned only with him and with his affairs; thus, he manifests in a clearer and more complete way the profoundly transforming reality of the New Testament."16

This newness, this new process, is life in virginity, which Jesus himself lived in harmony with his role as Mediator between heaven and earth, between the Father and the human race. "Wholly in accord with this mission, Christ remained throughout his whole life in the state of celibacy, which signified his total dedication to the service of God and men."17 The service of God and men means that total love without reserve which distinguished Jesus' life among us: virginity for the sake of the Kingdom of God!

Now Christ, by calling his priests to be ministers of salvation, that is, of the new creation, calls them to be and to live in newness of life, united and similar to him in the most perfect way possible. From this derives the gift of sacred celibacy, as the fullest configuration with the Lord Jesus and a prophecy of the new creation. He called his apostles "friends." He called them to follow him very closely in everything, even to the cross. And the cross brought them to the Resurrection, to the new creation's completion.

We know, therefore, that following him with faithfulness in virginity, which includes sacrifice, will lead us to happiness. God does not call anyone to unhappiness; he calls us all to happiness. Happiness, however, always goes hand in hand with faithfulness. The late Pope John Paul II said this to the married couples whom he met at the Second World Meeting of Families in Rio de Janeiro.

Thus, the theme of the eschatological meaning of celibacy is revealed as a sign and a prophecy of the new creation, in other words, of the definitive Kingdom of God in the parousia, when we will all be raised from the dead.

As the Second Vatican Council teaches, "She the Church is, on earth, the seed and the beginning of that kingdom."18 Virginity, lived for love of the Kingdom of God, is a special sign of these "final times," because the Lord announced that "in the resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven."19

In a world like ours, a world of entertainment and superficial pleasures, captivated by earthly things and especially by the progress of science and technology —let us remember the biological sciences and biotechnology —the proclamation of an afterlife, of a future world, a parousia, as a definitive event of a new creation is crucial and at the same time free from the ambiguity of aporia, of din, suffering and contradictions with regard to the true good and the new, profound knowledge that human progress brings with it.

Finally, the ecclesiological meaning of celibacy leads us more directly to the priest's pastoral activity.

The encyclical "Sacerdotalis Caelibatus" affirms: "The consecrated celibacy of the sacred ministers actually manifests the virginal love of Christ for the Church, and the virginal and supernatural fecundity of this marriage."20

Like Christ and in Christ, the priest mystically weds the Church and loves the Church with an exclusive love. Thus, dedicating himself totally to the affairs of Christ and of his Mystical Body, the priest enjoys ample spiritual freedom to put himself at the loving and total service of all people without distinction.

"In a similar way, by a daily dying to himself and by giving up the legitimate love of a family of his own for the love of Christ and of his Kingdom, the priest will find the glory of an exceedingly rich and fruitful life in Christ, because like him and in him he loves and dedicates himself to all the children of God."21

The encyclical likewise adds that celibacy makes it easier for the priest to devote himself to listening to the Word of God and to prayer, and prepares him to offer upon the altar the whole of his life, marked by sacrifice.22

Value of chastity, celibacy

Even before it is a canonical disposition, celibacy is God's gift to his Church. It is an issue bound to the complete gift of self to the Lord.

In the distinction between the age-old discipline of celibacy and the religious experience of consecration and the pronouncement of vows, it is beyond doubt that there is no other possible interpretation or justification of ecclesiastical celibacy than unreserved dedication to the Lord in a relationship that must also be exclusive from the emotional viewpoint. This presupposes a strong personal and communal relationship with Christ, who transforms the hearts of his disciples.

The option for celibacy of the Latin Rite Catholic Church has developed since apostolic times precisely in line with the priest's relationship with his Lord, moved by the inspiring question, "Do you love me more than these?"23 which the Risen Jesus addressed to Peter.

The Christological, ecclesiological and eschatological reasons for celibacy, all rooted in the special communion with Christ to which priests are called, can therefore be expressed in various ways, according to what is authoritatively stated in "Sacerdotalis Caelibatus."

Celibacy is first and foremost a "symbol of and stimulus to charity."24 Charity is the supreme criterion for judging Christian life in all its aspects; celibacy is a path of love, even if, as the Gospel according to Matthew says, Jesus himself states that not all are able to understand this reality: "Not all men can receive this precept, but only those to whom it is given."25

This charity develops in the classical, twofold aspect of love for God and for others: "By preserving virginity or celibacy for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven, priests are consecrated in a new and excellent way to Christ. They more readily cling to him with undivided heart."26

St. Paul, in the passage alluded to here, presents celibacy and virginity as the way "to please God" without divided interests:27 in other words, a "way of love" which certainly presupposes a special vocation; in this sense it is a charism and in itself excellent for both Christians and priests.

Through pastoral charity, radical love for God becomes love for one's brethren. In "Presbyterorum Ordinis" we read that priests "dedicate themselves more freely in him and through him to the service of God and of men. They are less encumbered in their service of his Kingdom and of the task of heavenly regeneration. In this way they become better fitted for a broader acceptance of fatherhood in Christ."28

Common experience confirms that it is easier for those who, apart from Christ, are not bound by other affections, however legitimate and holy they may be, to give their heart to their brethren fully and without reserve.

Celibacy is the example that Christ himself left us. He wanted to be celibate. The encyclical explains further: "Wholly in accord with this mission, Christ remained throughout his whole life in the state of celibacy, which signified his total dedication to the service of God and men. This deep connection between celibacy and the priesthood of Christ is reflected in those whose fortune it is to share in the dignity and mission of the Mediator and the Eternal Priest; this sharing will be more perfect the freer the sacred minister is from the bonds of flesh and blood."29

Jesus Christ's historical existence is the most visible sign that chastity voluntarily embraced for God's sake is a solidly founded vocation, both at the Christian level and at that of common human logic.

If ordinary Christian life cannot legitimately claim to be such if it excludes the dimension of the cross, how much more incomprehensible would priestly life be were the perspective of the crucified One to be put aside.

Suffering, sometimes weariness and boredom and even setbacks have to be dealt with in a priest's life which, however, is not ultimately determined by them. In choosing to follow Christ, one learns from the very outset to go with him to Calvary, mindful that taking up one's cross is the element that qualifies the radical nature of the sequela.

Lastly, as previously stated, celibacy is an eschatological sign. In the Church, from this moment, the future Kingdom is present. She not only proclaims it but brings it about through the sacraments, contributing to the "new creation" until her glory is fully manifested.

While the sacrament of marriage roots the Church in the present, immersing her totally in the earthly realm which can thus become a possible place for sanctification, celibacy refers immediately to the future, to that full perfection of the created world that will be brought to complete fulfillment only at the end of time.

Being faithful to celibacy

The 2,000-year-old wisdom of the Church, an expert in humanity, has in the course of time constantly determined several fundamental and indispensable elements to foster her children's fidelity to the supernatural charism of celibacy.

Among them, also in the recent Magisterium, the importance of spiritual formation for the priest, who is called to be "a witness of the Absolute," stands out. "Pastores Dabo Vobis" states: "In preparing for the priesthood we learn how to respond from the heart to Christ's basic question: 'Do you love me?'. For the future priest the answer can only mean total self-giving."30

In this regard, the years of formation are absolutely fundamental, both those distant years lived in the family, and especially the more recent years spent at the seminary. At this true school of love, like the apostolic community, young seminarians cluster round Jesus, awaiting the gift of his Spirit for their mission.

"The relation of the priest to Jesus Christ, and in him to his Church, is found in the very being of the priest, by virtue of his sacramental consecration/anointing and in his activity, that is, in his mission or ministry."31

The priesthood is no more than "'living intimately united' to Jesus Christ"32 in a relationship of intimate communion, described "in terms of friendship."33 The priest's life is basically that form of existence which would be inconceivable without Christ. Precisely in this lies the power of his witness: Virginity for the sake of the Kingdom of God is a real element, it exists because Christ, who makes it possible, exists.

Love for the Lord is authentic when it endeavors to be total: Falling in love with Christ means having a deep knowledge of him, it means a close association with his person, the identification and assimilation of his thought, and lastly, unreserved acceptance of the radical demands of the Gospel.

It is only possible to be witnesses of God through a deep experience of Christ; the whole of a priest's life depends on his relationship with the Lord, the quality of his experience of martyria, of his witness.

Only someone who truly has Jesus for his friend and Lord, one who enjoys his communion, can be a witness of the Absolute. Christ is not only a subject of reflection, of a theological thesis or of a historical memory; he is the Lord who is present, he is alive because he is the Risen One and we live only to the extent that we participate ever more deeply in his life. The entire priestly existence is founded on this explicit faith.

Consequently, the encyclical says: "The priest should apply himself above all else to developing, with all the love grace inspires in him, his close relationship with Christ, and exploring this inexhaustible and enriching mystery; he should also acquire an ever deeper sense of the mystery of the Church. There would be the risk of his state of life seeming unreasonable and unfounded if it were viewed apart from this mystery."34

In addition to formation and love for Christ, an essential element for preserving celibacy is passion for the Kingdom of God, which means the ability to work cheerfully, sparing no effort to make Christ known, loved and followed.

Like the peasant who, having found the precious pearl, sold all he had in order to purchase the field, so those who find Christ and spend their whole lives with him and for him cannot but live by working to enable others to encounter him.

Without this clear perspective, any "missionary urge" is doomed to failure, methodologies are transformed into techniques for maintaining a structure, and even prayers can become techniques for meditation and for contact with the sacred in which both the human "I" and the "you" of God dissolve.

One fundamental and necessary occupation, a requirement and a task, is prayer. Prayer is irreplaceable in Christian life and in the life of priests. Prayer should be given special attention.

The Eucharistic Celebration, the Divine Office, frequent confession, an affectionate relationship with Mary Most Holy, spiritual retreats and the daily recitation of the holy rosary are some of the spiritual signs of a love which, were it lacking, would risk being replaced by unworthy substitutes such as appearances, ambition, money and sex.

The priest is a man of God because God calls him to be one, and he lives this personal identity in an exclusive belonging to his Lord, also borne out by his choice of celibacy. He is a man of God because he lives by God and talks to God. With God he discerns and decides in filial obedience on the steps of his own Christian existence.

The more radically a priest is a man of God through a life that is totally theocentric, as the Holy Father stressed in his Address at the Christmas Meeting with the Roman Curia on Dec. 22, 2006, the more effective and fertile his witness will be, and the richer in fruits of conversion his ministry. There is no opposition between fidelity to God and fidelity to man: On the contrary, the former is a prerequisite for the latter.

Conclusion: a holy vocation

"Pastores Dabo Vobis," speaking on the priest's vocation to holiness, having underlined the importance of the personal relationship with Christ, expresses another need: The priest, called to the mission of preaching the Good News, sees himself entrusted with it in order to give it to everyone. He is nevertheless called in the first place to accept the Gospel as a gift offered for his life, for himself, and as a saving event that commits him to a holy life.

In this perspective, John Paul II has spoken of the evangelical radicalism that must be a feature of the priest's holiness. It is therefore possible in the evangelical counsels, traditionally proposed by the Church and lived in the various states of consecrated life, to map out the vitally radical journey to which, also and in his own way, the priest is called to be faithful.

"Pastores Dabo Vobis" states: "A particularly significant expression of the radicalism of the Gospel is seen in the different 'evangelical counsels' which Jesus proposes in the Sermon on the Mount, and among them the intimately related counsels of obedience, chastity and poverty. The priest is called to live these counsels in accordance with those ways and, more specifically, those goals and that basic meaning which derive from and express his own priestly identity."35

And again, taking up the ontological dimension on which evangelical radicalism is founded, the postsynodal apostolic exhortation says: "The Spirit, by consecrating the priest and configuring him to Jesus Christ, Head and Shepherd, creates a bond which, located in the priest's very being, demands to be assimilated and lived out in a personal, free and conscious way through an ever richer communion of life and love and an ever broader and more radical sharing in the feelings and attitudes of Jesus Christ. In this bond between the Lord Jesus and the priest, an ontological and psychological bond, a sacramental and moral bond, is the foundation and likewise the power for that 'life according to the Spirit' and that 'radicalism of the Gospel' to which every priest is called today and which is fostered by ongoing formation in its spiritual aspect."36

The nuptial dimension of ecclesiastical celibacy, proper to this relationship between Christ and the Church which the priest is called to interpret and to live, must enlarge his mind, illumine his life and warm his heart. Celibacy must be a happy sacrifice, a need to live with Christ so that he will pour out into the priest the effusions of his goodness and love that are ineffably full and perfect.

In this regard the words of the Holy Father Benedict XVI are enlightening: "The true foundation of celibacy can be contained in the phrase: Dominus pars (mea) —You are my land. It can only be theocentric. It cannot mean being deprived of love, but must mean letting oneself be consumed by passion for God and subsequently, thanks to a more intimate way of being with him, to serve men and women, too. Celibacy must be a witness to faith: faith in God materializes in that form of life which only has meaning if it is based on God.

"Basing one's life on him, renouncing marriage and family, means that I accept and experience God as a reality and that I can therefore bring him to men and women."37

Ghosts and Demons


Question from Bob on 10/15/2007:

Dr.,

I was watching "Ghost Hunters" again and someone got knocked over by something invisible and it was caught on camera.

Now, I am sure the guy could have lost his balance. But, hypothetically speaking, can ghosts (damned souls, demons) hurt people physically? Isn't that called Demonic Obsession?

Thanks for your time.

Answer by Richard Geraghty on 10/21/2007:

Dear Bob,

Yes, demons can hurt people physically. It is hard, however, to judge any particular incident.

Dr. Geraghty

Clarification on Defending Faith, Morals and Reason


Question from Michael on 10/17/2007:

Thank you Dr. Geraghty for your help with this topic.

Unfortunately, I wish my instructor HAD assigned me to oppose the buying and selling of human organs. However, for the assignment I have been assigned to DEFEND this evil practice.

The comment by the priest that I included in my last message (paragraph 3) that I gave was his answer to me about what I could do in this situation and still avoid sin.

In essence; he said that I could never do or defend something evil in real life and in a real argument but since this assignment is designed to make me think of the other side's arguments in order to strengthen my own arguments in my future debates, I could morally participate in this assignment in which I have to defend the buying and selling of human organs.

I was asking about what should I do in this situation in which I am assigned to argue for something evil--either participate in this assignment (which the priest-who is orthodox and against the practice in question here-has said I could morally do) or take a zero. As I mentioned before, the teacher will not allow me to switch positions or to switch arguments regardless of religious and moral convictions.

I am sorry if I was not very clear in the first message. I really appreciate your help, but I am very disturbed and do not know what to do about this sticky situation.

Answer by Richard Geraghty on 10/22/2007:

Dear Michael,

Your priest adviser makes sense. It is understood in academia that one can write a paper stating the arguments for any moral position without necessarily buying those arguments. This would be an exercise in trying to understand the other side. At the end of such a report it is also the practice that one may close with an evaluation of the arguments. All of this is morally permissible.

Dr. Geraghty

The students are questioning the practice of All Saints and Souls Day?


Question from Cathy on 10/21/2007:

I teach 6th Grade REP and they are questioning the practice of all Saints and Souls Days they want more than what is in our Religious Education Books. History and practice of these days. Where can I pick up some more info that is brief and to the point. I did see the movie DVD option but I do not know if we have the budget to purchase it. Please help me Thanks, Cathy

I would have liked to know more of Doctrine as well but it is full.

Answer by Richard Geraghty on 10/22/2007:

Dear Cathy,

There is the Catholic Encyclopedia on line. There you will get a great deal of information on those two holy days. But don't think that supplying more information is going to make your students believers if they are already skeptical. The real power working is when the teacher professes that he or she believes in what the Church teaches. Here the children have the witness of an adult who takes all the teachings of the Church as the truth. Thus in your effort to supply more information impress upon the students that you believe in the teachings of the Church, not because you understand them all, not because you have approved of them one by one, but because you are a Catholic. And what Catholics do is to believe the Church as teaching in the name of God. This view, of course, does not fit the Protestant's view, which is based more on the Bible and more on opposition to the Church. So maybe you have to give a few lessons on the difference between Catholics and Protestants about the way each views the teaching authority of their respective churches.

Dr. Geraghty

Administering and Receiving Holy Communion


Question from Confused Catholic on 10/18/2007:

Dear Dr. Geraghty,

If the consecrated Sacred Host is TRULY the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Our Lord, which MAKES MORE SENSE? #l. a. Only the consecrated hands of a validly ordained priest can touch It?

b. Anyone can touch It?

#2

a. Standing to receive It? b. Kneeling to receive It?

These are strickly commonsense questions. Please answer in the simpliest way. Just answering a or b will suffice.

Thank you and God Bless You.

Answer by Richard Geraghty on 10/22/2007:

Dear Confused,

The Church is the only proper teacher about how Holy Communion is to be received. Since she allows extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist, she allows those who are not ordained to touch the host. She also allows those who are receiving communion to do so either standing or kneeling. Remember, the Church is our teacher in this matter. At one time she allowed only the priests to give out Holy Communion. In the past she also required everyone to kneel at the communion rail. But the Church has allowed other practices, which is her right.

Dr. Geraghty

Cardinals' Letter on Anniversary of Abortion Act

 

LONDON, OCT. 23, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Here is a letter by Cardinal Keith O'Brien, president of the bishops' conference of Scotland, and Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor, president of the bishops' conference of England and Wales. The message, released Monday, marks the 40th anniversary of the 1967 Abortion Act.
* * *
The 40th anniversary of the 1967 Abortion Act is an important moment for reflection. It gives us all an opportunity to seek to cherish human life and to support women in difficult circumstances. The law affects attitudes, but it does not itself compel anyone to have an abortion. Even without a change in the law, the abortion rate could fall dramatically if enough minds and hearts were changed.
The miraculous nature of human reproduction has become ever more apparent through recent advances in medical technology. In 1967, ultrasound was a primitive tool. Ultrasound scanners today can reveal in extraordinary detail the development of a human life in the womb. Premature babies are now able to survive at ever younger ages.
Developmental biology makes increasingly clear the beautiful and intricate processes of continuous development and growth of the single unique organism that is formed at conception. That is when our lives started. From that point on, there is a new human life that is neither the life of the father nor the mother. In 2007, we understand better than ever before, because we have seen it with our own eyes, the wonderful process of life that is brought to an end by abortion.
The 1967 Act was intended to solve the problem of illegal abortion, on the basis that it was a major cause of death in pregnant women. Yet our countries now perform nearly 200,000 abortions every year. We have one of the most liberal abortion laws in Europe with abortion up to 24 weeks and abortion in the case of disability (and on some other grounds) up to birth. Whatever our religious creed or political conviction, abortion on this scale can only be a source of distress and profound anguish for us all.
The Catholic Church throughout the world has been constant in its opposition to abortion as morally wrong, and has been determined to give voice to the silent cry for love and recognition that belongs to every human life. The Church has for many years in our countries been at the forefront of offering practical, emotional and spiritual care to women and babies in need. It has sought, too, to help the many women, and men, who suffer grief, pain and loss following an abortion experience.
In the years since 1967, much has been made of the slogan "the woman's right to choose." Yet the right to make a genuine choice is exactly what very many women who have abortions say they do not have.
Abortion is a moment of choice. Abortion is always a choice between life and death, but we recognize that it is made in complex personal and domestic situations. It can be especially difficult for the mother if she feels abandoned by her partner or that by having the child she will lose the support of her family or society. Women in this situation can feel intensely isolated.
Many women and men, too, already feel the pressure of caring for their families. They often have to cope with financial burdens and the demands of a career. In such situations, family relationships can feel so strained that they do not feel they can welcome another life. If the pregnancy is unwanted it can be easier to argue that it is somehow in the interests of the child not to be born because the child will not be welcomed. At times, the life of the child is seen as an unnecessary limitation on the mother and the father. The child's life is placed in opposition to theirs. When this happens, abortion can be portrayed as the lesser of two evils, which removes an obstacle to the "success" of the parents' lives. Yet life, especially new life, is ultimately never a deprivation. It is a gift that always enriches; a promise filled with hope. We should never let ourselves be persuaded otherwise.
Often, "a woman's right to choose" fails to acknowledge the role of the father. It seems to pass over the fact that the majority of men do want to be fathers of their children. If we accept "a woman's right to choose" as the governing principle of such a profound choice between life and death, then rather than encouraging men to accept responsibility, it can support their denial or avoidance.
For everyone involved, abortion will often have been a painful and shattering decision. For many women it is one in which they, perhaps even as much as their unborn child, will have been the victim. This is why we believe that abortion is not only a personal choice, it is about the choices our society makes to support women, their partners and families in these situations. If our society makes life its choice then there is no reason why the child, the mother and the father, and indeed the whole family of society cannot grow to fulfill their potential. Abortion robs everyone of their future. Individually and as a society we believe we have another choice: to give birth to life.
How can we all help bring about change? There is nothing to stop our society from acting now to foster a new understanding and approach to relationships, responsibility and mutual support:
-- By being parents and families who cherish life and support our daughters and sons in making decisions that are responsibly pro-life.
-- By providing sympathetic counseling and help for young women who find themselves pregnant.
-- By providing more and better facilities to support and help young mothers who choose to have their babies.
-- By dismantling a conveyor belt that can often take a young woman through to having an early abortion without any of the alternatives being properly explored or resourced. Making genuine freedom of choice a reality is the first and crucial step in a fundamental change of mind and heart.
-- By supporting and developing better educational programs which place the gift of sexual relations within the context of marriage and fidelity. Such programs can help people understand realistically the joy and sacred responsibility of parenthood. They can inform them about the resources available within the Catholic Church and society for supporting families and parents at moments of difficulty.
-- By respecting and supporting the decision of those in health care who refuse to perform or assist in abortions on grounds of conscience.
-- By pressing for achievable change in the law in the light of advances in medical developments, even if Parliament will not abolish the law. Whilst upholding the principle of the sacredness of human life, it is both licit and important for those in public life who oppose abortion on principle to work and vote for achievable incremental improvement to what is an unjust law.
The Catholic faith lets us see the radiant glory of human life from its beginning to its end. When we know that every person whatever their age, race or condition carries the image of God, we see their infinite value and dignity. Whether we have this vision of faith or not, cherishing life is the central value of every society that wants to flourish.
The Catholic Church offers to participate with others in working for this timely change of heart and mind. We hope and pray for the sake of our common humanity, and the lives at stake, that the next 40 years will tell a very different story. The time to take a different path is now.
Cardinal Keith O'Brien
President
Catholic Bishops' Conference of Scotland
Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor
President
Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales

Sacrament of Marriage


Question from anonymous on 10/18/2007:

Dear Fr. Levis,

When I was married over 20 years ago I was in a state of mortal sin. I have since gone to confession. My concern is that I feel there was no sacrament. I realize the God has forgiven me but does that automatically make a marriage sacramential. It was not on the day I took my vows. At least I don't think it was because of my sins. Please help me to understand this. Thank you so much for your time.

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/20/2007:

Anon, When you married in sin, you truly received the Sacrament of Matrimony on that day but not the grace of this Sacrament. The day you confessed your sins and were restored to grace, on that day, yes the grace of the Sacrament was given to you by God. Fr. Bob Levis

Guardian Angels


Question from Douglas Notini on 10/20/2007:

My daughter asked me whether or not her guardian angel could be a girl or if all guardian angels are boys. I have always understood that guardian angels are referred to using male names. I don't know where I learned this or if it is true. Could you give me some information on this subject?

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/22/2007:

Dpuglas, All angels and archangels are spirits, therefore neither male nor female.Fr.Bob Levis

Prayer to the God directly, ONLY?


Question from jt on 10/20/2007:

Is there scriptural reference for praying to anyone other than God directly, as in the "Our Father."

Thank You.

God bless...

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/22/2007:

JT, Ultimately all prayer is adddressed to God, thru Christ and the Holy Spirit. This is true even when we pray to the saints. Fr. Bob Levis

infallible Pope


Question from jackie on 10/22/2007:

I understand that the Pope is infallible when he speaks from the chair of Peter, I am not sure I even have that part right. Could you explain this and when the last time a Pope spoke infallibly and what it was he said. Thank you

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/23/2007:

Jackie, Vatican Council 1 defined papal infallibility. When the Pope speaks infallibly, ie. when discharging the office of pastor and teacher of all Christians, by virtue of his supreme apostolic authority, he defines a doctrine regarding faith or morals to be held by the universal Church, by the divine assistance promised to him in Blessed Peter,the Pope possesses that infallibility with which the divine Redeemer willed his church to possess. Pope Pius 12 in 1950 solemnly defined the dogma of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven. But the Pope also enjoys the ordinary episcopal infallibility of the Church whenever he teaches the Faith. Fr. Bob Levis

Feast day of a saint


Question from aaron on 10/22/2007:

Dear Fr. Bob Levis,

Is it that the intercession through prayers of a saint on his/her feast day to God for us is the most powerful?

Does that mean that on All Saints Day (Nov. 1), their intercession for us to God is the most powerful?

Thank you so much for your wonderful help. God bless you.

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/23/2007:

Aaron, Whoever can say just when a saint's prayer is most powerful? I think judgment here belongs to God. Fr. Bob Levis

muslims in heaven


Question from ray busacco on 10/22/2007:

My son-in-law is now a Christian, however his Mom & Dad were of Muslim faith from Iran and recently passed away.

He is struggling with thinking that they are lost and not able to enter heaven and also thinks that it will do no good to pray for them to enter the kingdom of heaven. We are not sure how to console him.

I appreciate your response.

Thanks,

Ray Busacco

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/23/2007:

Ray, Our Church teaches that non-Catholics may well be saved if they lived good upright lives according to their own traditions, said their prayers regularly, considered their own faith valid. There are 5 billion people on earth who today will never even hear the word, Jesus, or anything about him. God is good and we can hope and pray for the saving of these who never have been told of Christ. Fr. Bob Levis

Chilean government fines pharmacies millions for not selling abortion pill

 

Santiago, Oct 23, 2007 / 03:27 pm (CNA).- The Chilean government has imposed multi-million dollar fines on three pharmacy chains for not selling the abortion pill, the legitimacy of which the courts in the country are currently debating.

The government announced it would impose fines on three main pharmacy chains for not carrying the morning-after pill.  Up to now, all of the major Chilean laboratories have refused to manufacture the pill, and therefore the government and abortion organizations have had to import it from Colombia.

In addition to the fines, the government has required the chains to explain the reasons for which they are not carrying the drug.

Chile’s Ministry of Health claims the pharmacies are obliged “by law” to sell the pill, and it said it has acquired 25,000 doses of the drug from a Colombian lab.  “Last year we did not impose fines because the pill was not available in the country, but now it has been available for the last five months, and they still have not bought it,” said Health official Mauricio Osorio, adding that pharmacies should “urgently” begin to sell the drug.

If the pharmacies refuse they will be subject to more fines or even the “closing of their stores.” 

Martin Luther


Question from R. Pinion on 10/18/2007:

Recently I heard that, when Martin Luther was on his deathbed, Luther asked for a Catholic priest to confess to for starting the Protestant Reformation. Is this an urban legend?

Thanks in advance!

Answer by Catholic Answers on 10/18/2007:

R. Pinion--

Unless the person who told you this story can produce evidence to substantiate it, I recommend treating it as a pious legend.

Michelle Arnold
Catholic Answers

Administering and Receiving Holy Communion


Question from Confused Catholic on 10/18/2007:

Dear Dr. Geraghty,

If the consecrated Sacred Host is TRULY the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Our Lord, which MAKES MORE SENSE? #l. a. Only the consecrated hands of a validly ordained priest can touch It?

b. Anyone can touch It?

#2

a. Standing to receive It? b. Kneeling to receive It?

These are strickly commonsense questions. Please answer in the simpliest way. Just answering a or b will suffice.

Thank you and God Bless You.

Answer by Richard Geraghty on 10/22/2007:

Dear Confused,

The Church is the only proper teacher about how Holy Communion is to be received. Since she allows extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist, she allows those who are not ordained to touch the host. She also allows those who are receiving communion to do so either standing or kneeling. Remember, the Church is our teacher in this matter. At one time she allowed only the priests to give out Holy Communion. In the past she also required everyone to kneel at the communion rail. But the Church has allowed other practices, which is her right.

Dr. Geraghty

Why not pray diectly to God? Isn't that what the "Our Father" recommends?


Question from Teresa on 10/21/2007:

Where did the the idea of praying to saints and Mary originate? Is it even scriptural?

Tahnk you.

Answer by Richard Geraghty on 10/23/2007:

Dear Teresa,

If you are an evangelical Protestant, you are in a tradition which locates all religious teachings in a literal interpret ion of the bible. Thus the prayer the "Our Father" is interpreted that all prayer must be directed to the Father alone and not to the Father through any appeal to the Blessed Mother and the saints. If you are a Catholic, you are in a tradition which locates all religious teachings in the authority of the Church, which is the sole interpreter of the Bible and the traditions handed down by Christ to the apostles. In this tradition one can pray to the Blessed Mother and the saints as creatures who are especially blessed by God as well as pray directly to the Father. Thus very much depends on what tradition of faith that one belongs to. Thus a Catholic would have no difficulty with the practice of the Jews in the Old Testament of their devotion to Abraham, Moses, and David because they were especially chosen by God to reveal his will. The basic principle behind this practice would be that God dealt with the Jewish people, not as individuals, but as members of a community. Thus God wold be honored when these great leaders of the community were honored. The Catholic Church regards itself as a community of believers who approach God in the way God approached them. God the Father approached them through Christ and his Apostles. The New Testament came later.It seems to me that the evangelical tradition omits this communal sense and sees the believer more as an isolated individual dealing directly with God. On this view God illuminates the soul of each individual as he or she reads the Bible and leans all that they have to know in this personal manner. This is not the Catholic sense of how God deals with his creatures.

Dr. Geraghty

Guardian Angels


Question from Douglas Notini on 10/20/2007:

My daughter asked me whether or not her guardian angel could be a girl or if all guardian angels are boys. I have always understood that guardian angels are referred to using male names. I don't know where I learned this or if it is true. Could you give me some information on this subject?

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/22/2007:

Dpuglas, All angels and archangels are spirits, therefore neither male nor female.Fr.Bob Levis

Sacrament of Marriage

Question from anonymous on 10/18/2007:

Dear Fr. Levis,

When I was married over 20 years ago I was in a state of mortal sin. I have since gone to confession. My concern is that I feel there was no sacrament. I realize the God has forgiven me but does that automatically make a marriage sacramential. It was not on the day I took my vows. At least I don't think it was because of my sins. Please help me to understand this. Thank you so much for your time.

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/20/2007:

Anon, When you married in sin, you truly received the Sacrament of Matrimony on that day but not the grace of this Sacrament. The day you confessed your sins and were restored to grace, on that day, yes the grace of the Sacrament was given to you by God. Fr. Bob Levis

Genesis 18


Question from nick on 10/18/2007:

Father, Is there a catholic understanding of who the three persons were to whom Abraham was speaking ?

Answer by Fr. Robert J. Levis on 10/18/2007:

Nick, To my knowledge the three were angels sent by Yahweh. Fr. Bob Levis

Canonizations infallible?


Question from Anonymous on 9/25/2007:

Are canonizations of the Saints infallible? When looking this up, some websites said yes, while others said no. Thanks for your time, and God bless.

Answer by Rev. Mark J. Gantley, JCL on 10/22/2007:

I will answer this question purely from a canonical point of view. Perhaps the matter is debated more thorougly in theological circles.

The following is from the deree of canonization of Josemaria Escriva: "Therefore, today, in a solemn Mass in St. Peter's Square, before an immense multitude of the faithful, we have pronounced the following formula: In honor of the Blessed and Undivided Trinity, for the uplifting of Catholic faith and the increase of Christian life, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ and that of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul and our own, after careful deliberation, having called frequently upon God's help, and with the advice of many of our brother Bishops, we declare and define Blessed Josemaría Escrivá to be a Saint, and we inscribe his name in the catalogue of the Saints, ordaining that, throughout the universal Church, he be devoutly honored among the Saints. In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. And what we have declared, we desire to be in force both now and in the future, anything to the contrary notwithstanding."

Canon 749 is the canon pertaining to infallible teaching. It states: "§1. By virtue of his office, the Supreme Pontiff possesses infallibility in teaching when as the supreme pastor and teacher of all the Christian faithful, who strengthens his brothers and sisters in the faith, he proclaims by definitive act that a doctrine of faith or morals is to be held. "§2. The college of bishops also possesses infallibility in teaching when the bishops gathered together in an ecumenical council exercise the magisterium as teachers and judges of faith and morals who declare for the universal Church that a doctrine of faith or morals is to be held definitively; or when dispersed throughout the world but preserving the bond of communion among themselves and with the successor of Peter and teaching authentically together with the Roman Pontiff matters of faith or morals, they agree that a particular proposition is to be held definitively. "§3. No doctrine is understood as defined infallibly unless this is manifestly evident."

The key word in an infallible statement is "definitive." The decree of canonization does not use the term "definitive," although it certainly uses language close to it.

The alternative to "definitive" infallible teachings is not just errorneous teachings. There are other authoritative teachings. Perhaps canonizations fall into one of these categories.

People may respond to this posting with statements refuting what I have written. I will only be completely convinced if something says that canonizations are "definitive."

Dipping Host


Question from D on 10/21/2007:

To Whom it Concern:

I went to a Cicerstan Monastery for Mass last weekend and I noticed something odd.

I should preface this with saying that the Mass had Georgian chants. During Communion the monks dipped the Host into the Cup while the laity just recieved the Host. From my limited experience, I have only seen that in those Anglican Use parishes but I am not sure if they are allowed to do that(the priest gave it to the lay recieving).

Is this allowed.

Answer by Rev. Mark J. Gantley, JCL on 10/22/2007:

It is permitted for a concelebrating priest intinct the host in order to receive both species together. It is also permitted for the minister to intinct the host and give it to the laity so that they receive both species together. However, in this case, the host must be received on the tongue. It is not permitted for a person receive Holy Communion to do the dipping him or herself (except for the case of the concelebrating priest).

Reception of Holy Communion by intinction is an accepted practice of the Roman rite, even if it is not widely practiced in all places today.

Canon Law regarding Sunday worship and rest


Question from Vivian on 10/20/2007:

I have 2 questions.

First, does any part of Canon law address Sunday worship and rest?

Second, regarding a friend who keeps his fish market open on Sundays for business, is that a sin against the 3rd commandment because it is unnecessary work? He keeps the shop open 7 days a week but goes to Mass on Sundays.

Answer by Rev. Mark J. Gantley, JCL on 10/21/2007:

Canon 1247 states: "On Sundays and other holy days of obligation, the faithful are obliged to participate in the Mass. Moreover, they are to abstain from those works and affairs which hinder the worship to be rendered to God, the joy proper to the Lord's Day, or the suitable relaxation of mind and body."

I would recommend that you read the 1998 Apostolic Letter of Pope John Paul II Dies Domini: http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/apost_letters/documents/hf_jp- ii_apl_05071998_dies-domini_en.html

communion rite


Question from claudette malley on 10/21/2007:

is it ok for our priest to omit the this is the lamb of GOD who takes away the sins of the world ,happy are those who are called to his supper??

Answer by Rev. Mark J. Gantley, JCL on 10/21/2007:

No, that is not an optional part of the Rite of Holy Communion.

Temporal goods


Question from Jason on 10/7/2007:

Will all goods that exist in time exist again in eternity. Or all goods that we wish to exist at least?

This questions has many possible applications of course, but the biggest thing I'm thinking of right now is actually a romantic relationship I had that I lost due to my own stupidity, combined with some mistakes on her part as well. At this point, I think largely to help her deal with it, she is saying that essentally what we had is just something that happened and has no significance even as a life experience. This despite it being the first time either of us had felt we were in love, for example. I want to believe that, at least if we both go to heaven, some level of the love and caring we had for each other may be revived, alongside any later loves and of course the unifying love for God.

Answer by Richard Geraghty on 10/17/2007:

Dear Jason,

You have good instincts. In heaven the saves see God face to face. Since God is infinite in his existence and in his goodness and is the cause of all the existence and goodness we have experienced, we will be taking in all of this existence and goodness without any fear that it will be incomplete or that we will lose it. In life our grasp of goodness is not secure because we often lose a loved one or lose the love that once bound us to someone. Our loves on earth are filled with disappointment and loss. This is not so in heaven. Thus in heaven all the beauty of a first love is not lost or changed. We will have arrived!

Dr. Geraghty

Fortune Tellers...


Question from Mary on 10/15/2007:

I know that it would be breaking the 1st commandment to believe in fortune tellers and to believe that they have any God-like power to predict the future. However is it wrong if you don't believe it, but rather have just gone for fun. I thought if it was seen as a entertainment and you don't believe it, but trust in it or make a habit of it, that it's OK. A family member told me that it's always wrong. Thanks for your help.

Answer by Richard Geraghty on 10/21/2007:

Dear Mary,

Fortune tellers usually take their work quite seriously. I do not think it wise for a curiosity seekers to play around with them. If they were just silly and empty headed creatures, the Church would not worry about anybody seeing them. Stay away from them. If you wish to play games, get a crystal ball and pass it back and forth between you and a friend and predict each others future just for the fun of it. Don't get serious about real fortune tellers. They are not healthy for your spiritual life.

Dr. Geraghty

Ghosts and Demons


Question from Bob on 10/15/2007:

Dr.,

I was watching "Ghost Hunters" again and someone got knocked over by something invisible and it was caught on camera.

Now, I am sure the guy could have lost his balance. But, hypothetically speaking, can ghosts (damned souls, demons) hurt people physically? Isn't that called Demonic Obsession?

Thanks for your time.

Answer by Richard Geraghty on 10/21/2007:

Dear Bob,

Yes, demons can hurt people physically. It is hard, however, to judge any particular incident.

Dr. Geraghty

Vatican Joyful Over Liberation of Iraqi Priests

 

VATICAN CITY, OCT. 21, 2007 (Zenit.org).- The Holy See received with joy the news that the two priests kidnapped in Iraq over a week ago, have been set free.
Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, director of the Vatican press office, confirmed today that the priests have been liberated. The Vatican spokesman expressed the hope that kidnappings like this one would not happen again.

The two priests, Father Mazen Ishoa, 35, and Father Pius Afas, 60, were kidnapped on their way to celebrate Mass on Oct. 13 at Our Lady of Fatima Parish Church in the al-Faisaliya neighborhood.
According to Catholic sources in Mosul, they were released on a street in the city this morning. It has not been confirmed whether a ransom was paid for the two priests. The kidnappers, who did not make any claims about political allegiance, had asked for a $1 million ransom, and had set a payment deadline for Saturday.

Pro-lifers use new movie to spread gospel of life

 

Hollywood, Oct 19, 2007 / 11:47 am (CNA).- The Catholic Association has launched the Bella for Life project to use the new movie's pro-life themes to encourage and expand pro-life activities around the nation.

Bella is a film about a New York City waitress who struggles with an unexpected pregnancy and the friend who helps her through her hardship.  The movie won top honors at the prestigious Toronto Film Festival and it will soon be shown in 26 U.S. cities one week from today.

Michael Hernon, president of The Catholic Association, believed the movie provides a pro-life role model. "The main actor in Bella reaches out to a woman in a troubled pregnancy and becomes a "lifeguard". This is the subtle but very powerful message of life, hope and the power we all have to change people's lives. Bella for Life will be trying to build a new army of lifeguards for our world," he said.

US Representative Christopher Smith and his wife have endorsed the movie in a letter.  "Bella is a movie we have seen, enjoyed, enthusiastically support, and welcome in the ongoing struggle to change hearts and minds on abortion.  ...It is a message of hope, love, and life that can save lives. In fact, it already has," they wrote.

Bella for Life will use its website www.bellaforlife.org and other media to connect people to their local pregnancy center.  Mr. Hernon encouraged parishes and Catholic groups to use the movie as an opportunity to spread the gospel of life.

The movie will have a limited release beginning Friday, October 26.  The movie will be more broadly available only if attendance is high at its initial screenings.  Locations for initial screenings are reported on the movie’s website at http://www.bellathemovie.com