PREVIOUS QUESTIONS

Father Peter Auer

FEBRUARY 2003

 



Father Peter:

Is it allowable for a minister of the Eucharist to give holy communion to an elderly Catholic person who is suffering from senile dementia and may not really understand what they are receiving?  Of course this is assuming the person indicates that they would like it.  I would appreciate your answer on this one.  Thanks.  Ana

Dear Ana:

Every baptized Catholic in good standing with the Catholic Church has a right to receive the Sacraments.  If the person always loved to receive Jesus in the Eucharist during his/her conscious lifetime, it can be presumed that he/she would like to continue this intimate relationship with Christ, even when the person does not seem to know what day of the week it is.  For it is really Jesus who comes to that Christian, and Jesus longs to be united with His 'love'  even though there does not seem to be a conscious response.  Christ looks deep into one's heart, not like we do for we can only see the surface.  For Him, the soul is still madly in love with Him, and even has entered deeper into the mystery of Christ's suffering and self-emptying.  We should facilitate Holy Communion for that person - BUT we must make sure that the person is able to consume the host.  If the person who is incapacitated tends to spits out food and/or the Eucharist, or is prone to throw up right after eating something, then we should consider a blessing instead and once in a while the Sacrament of Anointing.

United in Prayer Always, Fr Peter Auer

 



Dear Father:

My husband and I have one amazing little boy and would love to give him a sibling.   We have been trying to conceive for over 3 years without success.  We have prayed and prayed.  Our doctors told us there is no medical reason.  So why won't God bless us with another child? I wonder if we are supposed to adopt, but every time we even think about it, there is an obstacle put in the way.  I want to do God's will.  I believe if it is God's will then he will bless us again with the gift of a child. Is it a sin to use fertility drugs? Thank you. - Lisa

Lisa:

God creates every person with love and just the way a person needs to be, so as to give God the greatest joy in being.  God said to Moses when asked who He was, He said "I AM".  We too must learn to BE, and we can only do this by entering deeper into "I AM."  Once we have entered into God through Baptism and a life lived as pleasing to Him, we ARE.

Now then, since we are one with God, He knows all our needs, desires and handicaps, as well as what our body can do or not do.  He is in charge of it all.  So if you and your spouse are unable to conceive, adoption is a wonderful way to serve the Lord.  If there are other obstacles in the way, maybe God wants you to serve Him in still another way; maybe as Catechist, Lector, Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist, Minister to the shut-ins, etc.  There can be many ways in serving our God. 

Then we have the wonderful examples in Scripture of people who had no children, until they themselves were of age; the story of Abraham and his son Isaac, the blessed Mother's own parents Joachim and Anne, then there is St. John the Baptist and his parents.  God arranges everything in His own time with the help of His people. They are called to be co-creators with Him, if they allow God to work in their lives.

Sometimes we are very desperate to conceive and so we try all kinds of things to have a child (as if it were my right to have one!)  God is the giver of all things, especially a child who is the greatest gift that God can give a couple.  This is the area that does get a bit fuzzy now.  Here is a URL that should clear up some of the misunderstandings: http://www.cuf.org/member/fertilitydrugs.pdf   Here is also the home page of the Pope Paul VI Institute: http://www.mitec.net/~popepaul/ - These sites deal with issues of sexuality - great pages to book mark!!!

United in Prayer Always, Father Peter Auer



Dear Father Peter:

Can a Lutheran Pastor convert to the Catholic Priesthood and if so, what are the requirements? I mean, since he is already ordained as a minister and holds an MA in Divinity, what's the process? Thank you.   John

Dear John:

It is not uncommon these days that a Protestant minister becomes a Catholic priest.  Often his wife, as well as his congregation comes along with him.  The pastor will have to be received into the Catholic Church and then be ordained to the priesthood.

The Catholic Priesthood is different than the Protestant priesthood and it takes a bishop (who can be linked directly to the priesthood of Christ Himself) to ordain a presbyter.  Luther was a priest and not a bishop and when he broke away from Rome, he had no power to ordain.  Therefore, all the "ordained" ministers in the Protestant faith, as well as their bishops, are not configured to Christ in the ministry of Christ's Priesthood, rather they have the priesthood of all the baptized (they share in the mission of Christ as priest, prophet and king), but not in the ministry as Christ the priest, the Head of His Church.   Every priest in the Catholic faith is linked to a bishop (through whom he has the right to function), who is linked to Christ through succession by laying on of hands - this goes back all the way to the first apostles (bishops are successors of Apostles and the Holy Father is the successor of Peter).

How would a Lutheran minister go about becoming a catholic priest?  He would get in touch with the local bishop and they would work something out.  Of course, since the minister has had lots of training and schooling, all this will be taken into consideration.  What has to happen though is that he will have to become familiar with the Catholic Church and it's doctrines, it's history, liturgy, etc.  All this will be up to the local bishop to decide.  Once the minister has finished the training, he will be ordained by a bishop and assigned somewhere within the diocese.

United in Prayer Always, Fr Peter Auer

 



JANUARY 2003

FATHER PETER AUER

Dear Father Peter: 

When Catholics pray to Mary, do they regard her as omniscient and omnipresent (qualities attributed to God)?  When I read prayers to Mary they ask for her to hear, answer, help, intercede, etc.  Basically all the things that they ask of God.   Why the redundancy?  Thank you, Carol

Dear Carol,

God's Blessings!   Only God is Omniscient, and omnipresent and all-powerful and all loving and, and, and....  Lets look at St. Thomas Aquinas what he has to say about the perfections of God: He states that the "first being" must be self-existent, that is, God has life in Himself.  No creature has that power.  This God must be pure excellence, is absolute perfection.  Creatures have some perfections but all of them are given to them by God - and these perfections are not absolute perfections.  Our perfections are so limited, they cannot be found in God.   i.e.: we have life, but God is Life itself!  We have beauty, but God is Beauty itself!  We have love, but God is Love itself.  We are like God by analogy, inasmuch as creatures have perfections in a limited way, while the perfections are in God unlimited and eminently as identified with his very essence and being and substance.

Mary is a creature like you and me, except that she was preserved from Original Sin, neither did she commit any sin, even the smallest sin, during her life on earth.  She was preserved by God's grace and the Passion/Death/Resurrection of Christ, whose merits were pre-applied to Mary, even before her conception - hence: Immaculate Conception.  No other creature is like her in purity and sinlessness - she is the "highest honor of our race." 

All Christians are called to become one with Christ (even Mary) - for in Christ we find our way to the Father in the power of the Holy Spirit.  That's why we are baptized and receive the "mark" on our soul that claims us for God.  We ought to bring this "mark" unstained into heaven - where this "mark" will be our glory.  All people ought to be found in Christ, those living and those who have passed away.  Once we are in Christ, we are one with God (Father/Son/Holy Spirit) as well as all those whom our Father created (people on earth/blessed souls in Heaven/souls in Purgatory and awaiting Heaven).  So we can pray for one another regardless of where they are (in space or time) - we become one with them in Christ.  In a sense we now participate in the qualities of God, like being present everywhere - since in love (power of the Holy Spirit) we become united with people.  It is unity what we all long for - and love as well.  It was God's idea to make people in His image and likeness and as such we have these desires to look out for one another and serve one another.  We rely on one another and we rely on God: "how good it is when brothers live in unity" we read in the Scriptures.

To enter into oneness with one another, pray for one another, it is not so much a redundancy to go to another person and ask for help, rather it is a union of love, which our God created us for.  Mary is the Mother of Jesus and as such, she is also our Mother.  God does not exist in time, neither are those who have passed away or those who are still to come into this world.   But we, those living on earth now are in time; and we are all called to become one with everyone.  Just as God is one....

Father Peter Auer

 



 

Dear Father:
How does church deal with the issue of exorcism?  Is this practice still part of the Christian faith?  This issue concerns me because I know of a person who might need the services of an exorcist but is not taken seriously.  As an active Catholic I think that a special prayer should be performed rather than just leaving the issue to science and a psychologist.  I think we should put our faith and beliefs first.   Thanks, Gerardo

 

Dear Gerardo,

God's Blessings!   Exorcism is still part of the Catholic Church; only they are not much talked about.  Each Diocese has a priest who is an exorcist, who is appointed by the Bishop.  The name is not made public.  This priest has to be a man with experience and be holy.

One a person is thought to be possessed; the priest does not right-away call the Chancery and ask for an exorcist.  There are steps and guidelines that ought to be followed: the person in question ought to go through medical and psychological tests.  This eliminates the majority of cases - they are just that: medical cases and/or psychological issues.

Once a person has passed these steps and there is no medical or psychological explanation - then it will be brought before the Bishop, who then gives the "go-ahead" and things start rolling.

This process has proven over time to be successful.

Why examinations beforehand?  It is amazing what a mind can do.... it has great powers and when one is not "right" in the head, one can cause weird phenomena to appear in one's own mind.  It is also known that people have, by their own power brought about "stigmata" on their on own hands and feet - just by using the mind....

Whenever the Church does something, there are reasons that safeguard the people’s health and faith.  The mill seems to grind slow at times, but "good thing - takes while."

Father Peter Auer

 



 

Father:
I have great difficulty understanding the apparent contradiction between free will and predestination. Could you please explain this for me?  Thank you.  Ana

Dear Ana,

God's Blessings!   The difference is: Predestination: God has prepared a place in heaven for all peoples whom He has created - and Free Will is: one chooses to go there - or not . . . . .

Father Peter Auer

 



 

Father:

With whom did Cain marry and/or have kids?  Thanks.  Kim

 

Dear Kim,

God's Blessings!  I don't know the name of Cain's wife, but here is a bit of information on him and one of his sons: http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/03142b.htm 

Father Peter Auer



FATHER AMARO SAUMELL

Dear Father:

My wife and I are both Catholic and have three boys.  My wife's health has gotten worse with each child.  She has symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis but so far, thank the Lord, no positive MRI results.  After 3 C-sections we are very concerned what could happen if we have another child.  Because of medical risks we have been using condoms but my wife has been developing yeast infections from the condoms.  No brand makes a difference.  Can we consider a vasectomy in good catholic conscience?  I feel at times it would be ok because of how and why we would want the procedure, but at other times I know since my wife and I enjoy an active sex life it would also help that aspect of our lives.  I don't want to make a decision on sexual activity but on the health and welfare of my family.  Would the Church allow me to do a vasectomy?  Please help. Ron

Ron,

You know, God has a reason for every part of planning the human anatomy and means of existence.  I am not surprised at the result of how your were trying to avoid birth.   I believe that if you had researched it more, you would have found out that Natural Family Planning was the natural answer to your problem.  Many people think that NFP is the same as the "Rhythm Method."  Nothing can be further from the truth.   Sadly, because they have gone by what they've "heard" or by following myths, they find themselves in similar circumstances you have.

Surely you have good reason to limit the size of your family.  But I would advise you to call your diocesan office and find out where your local Natural Family Planning classes are offered.  I believe that you will not only accomplish your goal, but it will be through God's intended design.  You'll also find a strengthened marriage because lovemaking becomes intentional, rather than impulsive. 

Father Amaro Saumell



 

Dear Father:

Why did God allow the Nazis to kill six million Jews?  Was it in His power to stop it?   Does the explanation of every man having free will really justify such slaughter of innocents? Thanks, Father.  Darel

Dear Darel:

Hope you'll look at the other answers in this section.  I answered about "free will" in an earlier response that could be helpful.  Unfortunately, it is true.   The same form of power seeking that killed our Lord Jesus Christ was used during the Nazi years.  And, it is always the innocents who suffer.  It is society that endorses such actions.  Politics in society makes things "right" in the eyes of certain societies.  It is the same type of politics that allowed the tragedy of 9-11.  It is the same type of politics has allowed 42 million babies to be slaughtered in our country since Roe Vs Wade.

The evil use of free will can use the rationalization of convenience or goal to meet any agenda and be justified if enough people agree.  It requires no ethical use of reason.  But as long as people live in compromise and give into societies agendas of convenience, it will always seem as if evil is winning out.

We are fortunate in this country to actually use our free will through the voting process.   But again, if we put issues before life. the slaughter continues.  You can make a difference in the world by making it clear to everyone that you meet that issues follow life.  They should never eliminate it.  We have a responsibility to defend the lives of those who cannot defend themselves.  But this takes education.   How many really take the time to study?

As Americans, we cannot criticize what the Nazis did to 8 million Jews when so far we've eliminated 42 million lives.  Yes, we do believe in free will.  But we must check our own use of it to make it work in tune with God's.  Fortunately, God's Will if that evil will not win out.  Heaven waits for those who live and act for truth.

God bless - Father Amaro

 



Dear Father Amaro:

Growing up I always had a very strong faith in God.  Over the past few years I have felt my faith lapsing.  I have prayed, cried, cursed, and begged God to show me the way.   Nothing.  I have even tried different parishes and religions.  I thought God welcomed all lambs to his flock.  I read the bible, but cannot seem to find the answer.  Life would by very discouraging if there were no God, but I am almost at that point.  I have never felt so alone in my life.  My only conclusions are that either God does not want me, or He does not exist.  Why won't God help show me the way?  Thank you.

 

Dear Jodie,

Ah!   You have been greatly blessed.  You are obviously ready to move to a higher level of spirituality.  Many people depend on "feelings" when it comes to their faith.  When the feelings go, they think their faith has left them.   Sometimes it does.  Why?  Because they are limiting God to their own feelings.  Any time we place limitation on the eternal, we actually lose sight of it.   As a Christian matures, he or she moves beyond the "feeling" stage into that of conviction.  Conviction has no boundaries.  It only grows..

For example:  I might get so angry with a parishioner that I want to knock him upside the head.  But...I don't act on my feelings.  I act on my convictions.  Right now you're not feeling your faith.  In this "dark night" you make a decision to trust something other than your senses.  That is true faith.  It goes beyond emotionalism and conquers it.

You are in good company.  I would highly advise you to read St. John of the Cross or St. Theresa of Avila.  You will find it very enlightening and reach a whole new level in the understanding of your faith.

God bless, Father Amaro Saumell

 



NOVEMBER 2002

Father Peter Auer



Dear Father Peter:

This question came up in my discussion group.  Is disclosure required after confession as part of the penance? 

Examples:  A man has an extra marital sexual relations.  Is he required to disclose this to his wife?  Or a man steals something from his employer.  Is he required to disclose this to his employer? - Thank you Father 

Dante

Dante:

Confession/Reconciliation is one of the best Sacraments we have – our evil deeds are being forgiven, just for the asking.  Of course, there is to be a commitment on the part of the penitent: not to commit that sin again and to stay away from the occasion of sin.  There is also that part about RESTITUTION, which needs to come into play.  If I have stolen something, I must return it (as much as it is possible, or make amends to the amount of the theft) but without there being a chance of  my identity being revealed.  If this is not possible, I ought to make amends in other ways: i.e.: put money in the poor box, or use that money to help others, or if I stole from an employer – I put in extra hours without showing it on the time card,….  

Now to the short-cut answer:  NO, one does not have to disclose the confession to anyone.  There is such a thing that is called: “seal of confession” by which the priest is bound to adhere; the penitent does not have to reveal it to anyone, but he/she can if that person wants to.   In my experience as a priest it is often better to let things of the past BE things of the past and don’t bring them up.  In the case of adultery, the disclosure can and often will destroy the marriage if the spouse is not deeply grounded in the faith.  When we come to Jesus and ask for forgiveness – He forgives and forgets!!!   As we grow deeper in our faith, we learn to become more like Him: even trusting that the past IS forgiven – so we just have to learn to LET GO ourselves.

Father Peter Auer

 



Father Auer:

I was quite excited at the recent finding of the Ossuary in Israel.  However, if it is authentic, my entire conception of Mary would have to change because I believe the Church determined that Mary was an eternal virgin. If the Ossuary is authentic, James was the son of Joseph and thus the son of Mary as well. Has the Church come up with an official explanation on to how to deal with this recent finding? Thank you so much.

Elizabeth

Dear Elizabeth:

This is an excerpt from the Catechism of the Catholic Church (click here and go to the source)

Mary—"ever-virgin"
499

The deepening of faith in the virginal motherhood led the Church to confess Mary's real and perpetual virginity even in the act of giving birth to the Son of God made man.154 In fact, Christ's birth "did not diminish his mother's virginal integrity but sanctified it."155 And so the liturgy of the Church celebrates Mary as Aeiparthenos, the "Ever-virgin."156

500

Against this doctrine the objection is sometimes raised that the Bible mentions brothers and sisters of Jesus.157 The Church has always understood these passages as not referring to other children of the Virgin Mary. In fact James and Joseph, "brothers of Jesus," are the sons of another Mary, a disciple of Christ, whom St. Matthew significantly calls "the other Mary."158 They are close relations of Jesus, according to an Old Testament expression.159

501

Jesus is Mary's only son, but her spiritual motherhood extends to all men whom indeed he came to save: "The Son whom she brought forth is he whom God placed as the first-born among many brethren, that is, the faithful in whose generation and formulation she cooperates with a mother's love."160

The Blessed Mother is THE chosen one by God, to be the Mother of Jesus, the Daughter of the Father and the Spouse of the Holy Spirit.  Just think: would God go through all that trouble to create her (who freely choose to give herself back to God), only to have her being violated by another human being?  Since she is the Spouse of the Holy Spirit – it is a true espousal (but not in a sexual way as we tend to think, since God is Spirit).   Would that not be adultery if she would give herself physically to another human being then?  She and St. Joseph are both virgins, who though married, did not engage in their marital right, but preserved themselves for God and His service.  If you care to read up on this issue – here is a link about: Perpetual Virginity.  Here is another wonderful link that explains the Marian Dogma: Virginity of Mary. 

Just because there was a finding about “the brother of Jesus” does not imply that the physical evidence of a corpse found in our time, conclusively shows that this was the brother of Jesus (a question on the side: are you not also a sister to Jesus?).  Just think of the possibility that there might have lived more than one Jesus and James during that time in that neck of the woods?  Besides: we have DOGMAS which are infallible – which will guide us through troubled times like this one.  Satan tries to sow discord, distrust, and mostly doubt.  The gifts of Faith/Hope/Charity (which we received in Baptism) will lead us on, guided by the Magisterium of the Church (=Teaching Authority of the Church).  As a Catholic person, we just adhere to this teaching and we would not have to worry about “news” like these.  Another help God gave us is the gift of meditation and prayer which each of us needs to do.  In meditation God reveals secrets and mysteries to those who seek answers (seek and you will find, knock and you will be opened). 

So, dear Elizabeth, I pray that you will have a good night’s sleep now, knowing that you have not been deceived by the Catholic Church – it actually lets you slumber in peace and tranquility.

Father Peter Auer

 



OCTOBER 2002

Father Peter Auer

Father Peter:

I am a 50 year old male registered nurse and I would like to find out more information about any Catholic orders (especially the Capuchins of the 1st order of St. Francis) for men who devote their energies to the care of the sick and injured.  Many thanks.  Gordon

Dear Gordon,

St. Francis founded 3 Orders: these are the three orders -- the “Friars Minor” (1209), the “Poor Ladies or also called Poor Clares” (1212), and the “Brothers and Sisters of Penance” (1221); they are generally referred to as the First, Second, and Third Orders of St. Francis.

In the First Order we find three groups: the “Friars Minor (1209)”, the “Friars Minor Conventuals (1517)” and the “Friars Minor Capuchins (1619).” 

You are right, that some of the Capuchins do take care of the sick, but they are not the only ones; here is a webpage that talks about the Hospitallers of St. John of God: http://www.hospitaller.co.uk/History%20Evolution.html

Then there are the Alexian Brothers: http://www.alexianbrothers.org/

The Brothers of Charity: http://www.fracarita.org/en/frames.html

The Servites: http://www.servite.org/

These are only a few – there are certainly more communities who would be happy to take you in.  There might be another way in which you could serve: ask your local priest if there would be a way to minister to your local community with the gifts that you have received!  Often we find that we can be of service, even in our own local Church.

Hope this helps a bit,
Fr Auer

 



Father:

Does a sin need a sacrament to be forgiven?   We must of course confess mortal sin to have it forgiven.  We are strongly encouraged to confess venial sins.  Sins are forgiven in the Eucharist.  Why are they not forgiven at the beginning of Mass when we say the "I confess to almighty God and to you..." in our expression of sorrow? - Gerald

 

Dear Gerald,

There are sins that are serious, others are called not so serious; we give them names: “mortal sins” and “venial sins.”  When one commits a mortal sin, that person casts out God from within, and under ordinary circumstances there is no way that this person is able to bring God back into his life without the gift of the Sacrament of Confession/Reconciliation.  Mortal sins have to be confessed to a priest in order to be forgiven.  It is very good and healthy to confess even the venial sins on a regular basis, to receive the grace of the Sacrament, which helps us greatly on our journey.  Besides that, we should make a daily/nightly examination of conscience and ask God for His forgiveness and mercy.  Also, when we get together at the Lord’s Table, during Holy Mass, we take time to briefly examine our hearts and then we say an act of contrition.  It is at THAT moment that we are being cleansed from our sins (if we really participate and mean what we do), so that when Holy Communion comes around, we are already cleansed!  It is not during Communion that we are being cleansed, rather at the beginning of Mass.  Communion is just that: a communion with our Lord and we should have been cleansed before that time. God bless. 

Father Peter Auer

 



Dear Father Peter:

Since Jesus knew that Judas would betray Him, apparently Judas did not have the option of making that decision of his own free will.  How, therefore, could he be blamed for his action?  For that matter - even Jesus' life and death were foretold.  Just how much "free will" is there?  If even Jesus didn't have that option - do we really have free will?  Thank you.  - Jeanne

 

Jeanne: 

This is a very interesting topic – the topic of PRE-DESTINATION.  Because: if we are pre-destined, we are not really responsible for our actions and we could not be held accountable for what we have done and we could not be punished.  One more thing: if we are not free, then our God is also not free – since we are made in His image and likeness (as we read in Genesis).  Here is a URL to read up on it on a theological basis: http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/12378a.htm

But in case you wanted an easier answer, here it comes: Just picture a bridge way, way up in there, spanning a river.  You stand on this bridge and see the beginning and the end of the river, even though the river is quite winding and at times goes over a fall.  Since you are sooo high up there, you can see the whole river.   Now, you see a small boat taking off from the source, taking turn after turn and slowly descending the river; where there is a waterfall, the fellow in the boat takes his raft and carries it past the falls and puts it back into the river.  Now, this fellow can only see so far – from bend to bend, while U can see the whole of the distance.  The question now is being presented to you: do you, just because you can see the whole of the course influence the fellow down below and know exactly what he is going to do and when?  Not really, though you know all that will happen.

This is really a picture of our life.   We are the one’s who are in the boat; we can see only so much of what’s coming toward us and what we leave behind.  But God sees the whole of our lives.   He knows exactly what we will do and when, because He sees our whole life and He can work with it (you have to keep in mind that God is NOT in time – but we are).   The question will now formulate itself: do we, just because we cannot see or understand the whole of our lives (-yet God does) have not free will?  At every moment of our lives we are “in control” so to say, we can choose what we do.  We are being enlightened by God to do the “right” thing at all times, if only we avail ourselves to take time and seek the truth in things.  God will reveal the truth to us if we seek it.  But He leaves it up to us to choose it.  We have also the power to turn away from Truth/Christ and do things seemingly apart from God; yet God is able to bring good out of evil – even a greater good then there was before (Easter Vigil: Oh Happy Fault, Oh Necessary Sin of Adam, which Gained for us so Great a Redeemer!  - God became man because of it – and all men can become Children of God in Christ).

Christ did have free will – and He chose to adhere to His Father’s will always.  Each one of us has also a mission to accomplish, which is unique to each person.  Only if we seek our God and enter into communion with Him through prayer and meditation will we find what that mission is all about.  But we also can choose to work with God or without Him: this is a freedom which our Father has given us. He will accomplish His will with or without us, but our happiness will depend on if we cooperated with His grace.  For those who are good, it is easier to do good things – though they might be tempted hard.  Christ who is the Son of God, who is Goodness Himself did only good deeds – though He was tempted beyond anything anyone was ever tempted – yet never sinned.  He chose to remain in His Father’s love.  We must also choose to remain in our Father’s love – through Jesus Christ.  This is the ultimate freedom – to choose the GOOD.

United in prayer always,
Father Peter Auer

 



SEPTEMBER 2002

FATHER AMARO SAUMELL



 

Fr Amaro:

Why do we use the Old Testament in the New American Bible instead of the Torah?   Isn’t the Torah the original Hebrew?   Thank you, Father.  -  Rick

Dear Rick:

Actually, the Torah is in the New American Bible.  You'll also find the other books of the Septuagint.   That was the Greek version of the scriptures that the Hebrew people used.   Believe it or not, the Hebrew version came after Christ.  Martin Luther and others made the mistake of thinking that just because it was in Hebrew, it must be the original.  He should have paid more attention to St. Paul, who referred to it many times.

God bless - Fr Ama



 

Dear Father:

Do the angels have free will?

Thank you Father.  -  George

Hi George:

I know we probably discussed this on line.  But it's pretty simple to figure out.  Don't the angels love God?  Love can't be forced or it wouldn't be love, right?  That should give you your answer.

God bless.  Father Amaro



Dear Father Amaro:

Was there an official stance held by the Vatican against the Nazi tyranny in Germany during its existence?  Was there any criteria at the time by which Hitler would have been made excommunicant?  Thank you - Darel

Dear Darel:

It's unfortunate that many people look for Vatican declarations when the Gospel itself tells it all.  To reject the Gospel is to excommunicate oneself.  It takes no formal proclamation.

God bless.   Fr. Amaro

 



FATHER PETER AUER



 

Dear Father Peter:

The minor doxology ("for thine is the kingdom...") after the Lord's Prayer was inserted in the mass in the 11th c. When was it taken out and when was it put back?  Thanks you for helping me out on this.   Jeri

Dear Jeri:

There is no better explanation than the NEW ADVENT web site: http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/05150a.htm .  Please refer to this page for the information you need. Hope this helps.

Father Peter Auer

 



Father Peter:

Eight years ago, my fiancé, who I loved dearly and had dated for 8 years, left me for another man. After a very long period of mourning, I have repeatedly asked of God that another woman would come into my life... and still there is no one. I am already 40 and feel like my time for marriage has passed. Why wouldn't God answer such a sincere prayer?  Many thanks Father.  – Don

Don:

Man proposes – God disposes!   We are creatures that are meant to be in communion – with God and with one another.  When God creates us, He knows exactly what we need in our life – and He gives us the necessary means to accomplish His will.  In regards to relationships – these also are planned by our heavenly Father, we have only to look for what is His will for us.  When we find someone who is very kind and loving and such and we think we are in love, we actually find and see in that person, what we have found and seen in God – only it has become a visible reality for us – and we are drawn deeper to that person.  God willing, eventually the wedding bells will ring.  Now, when we do not find someone who would fill that longing in our hearts, this does not mean that that person does not exist – maybe we have not looked in the right places (Church gatherings, community events,…), or maybe we have not given ourselves the opportunity to meet another person (we stayed at home and watch TV rather than going bowling, do some sports, readers circles,….); and there may be another avenue: maybe God wants us to follow Him in a way that is special – like to serve Him even in this world as a single lay person, or maybe even as a tertiary of a religious Organization, or maybe become a brother, deacon or even a late vocation to the priesthood.  A spiritual director might shed some light on this matter.

I can understand how hard it is to lose someone, after one has spent a lot of time (the best time of one’s life, so to speak) with a friend and then that friend leaves or is taken away.  We are not in charge what happens to us in our lives – but we are in charge of what we can make out of the situation we are in.  In your case Don, after a period of grieving, bring closure to that past relationship – be happy for her to have found the will of God in her life and then: put your hands on the plow and do not look back – keep working for the Kingdom of God.  If God wants to He will find a spouse for you (just recently we had a wedding in our parish where the bride and groom were almost 80 years old) - s Dear Father:

A friend recently asked me a question that neither I nor my 71 year old mother could come up with a good answer for. He asked why we call nuns "sisters". Our local priest's answer was too vague, saying that we were all brothers and sisters in Christ. But that doesn't really explain why nuns are specifically called Sister. Can you please give a more detailed answer? I'd sure appreciate it.  Regards.   -  Mike

Dear Mike:

Fr. John Harden writes in his Modern Catholic Dictionary the following: “Sisters” is a popular term for religious women, whether cloistered nuns or members of congregations under simple vows.  The title corresponds to brothers in men’s religious institutes and signifies that they are all members of the same spiritual family, share possessions in common, and live together in Christ-like charity.   I hope that helps?

Father Peter Auer

 



 

QUESTIONS FOR JULY/AUGUST 2002

 

Father Auer:

I am married to a woman who recently returned to the church. It is an intermarriage, as I am Jewish. Nine years ago, at her insistence, after 3 children, I had a vasectomy. She has now decided that, since children are no longer possible, she will remain celibate. Frankly, I am contemplating divorce. Is the above an established Catholic practice?

Thank you.  - Bruce

 Dear Bruce,

God's Blessings!

It is a good thing for a person to come close to God, like your wife did.  And when we come close to God we want to follow His will and His Commandments.  Past sins, when confessed to God (for a Catholic by going to Confession to a priest), we know that God has forgiven our sins.  To have had a Vasectomy for the reason of not having any more children was not a good decision, but one you both have made.  In Catholic terms this was a sinful act in which both of you participated.

1.  In the marital act two elements always have to be present: LOVE and LIFE.  If one is not present or if both are not present, then it is not a God pleasing action.  In your case the LIFE aspect has been done away with - this was/is not good.

2.  One more aspect has to be looked at: in marriage, the man does not "own" his body any more - it is the wife who has "rights" over the body of her husband; also the wife does not "own" her body any more - it is the husband who has "rights" over her body.  A spouse should not deny his spouse this "right" unless there is a serious reason for its denial.  The situation you are in right now is not a serious reason for denial.

In your case, both of you have sinned against God - but when you returned to God, God forgave.  If so desired, the vasectomy could be reversed today by a simple operation.  But it does not have to be.  You just accept God's love and His forgiveness and make the best out of your situation.  There are other ways of being a "father" and "mother".   If you wanted to, you could adopt, or become a friend and "father/mother" to other people  - in a spiritual sense.  You have given each other a promise and made a vow to God that "you love each other in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health”.  This might be a difficult time for both of you - but your vow still stands before God.  What I would suggest is to call the local priest and make an appointment to talk it over with him - the three of you.

When we become fervent in our faith - at times we can get carried away and want to break with any sins of our past.  This might be what your wife is thinking by not engaging in marital relations.  But we cannot deny the past - we have to be able to face it and make the best out of it.  The first thing God looks at is: what is your state in life?  Are you married?  If "yes", then make this marriage work.   It is easy to be married if everything goes all right - but you can prove your love for spouse and God if things don't go so well - and you have to struggle until the problem is resolved.  This is where God's grace comes in - to carry you through this difficult time - that was His promise to us: "I will be with you to the end of time."

United in Prayer Always,
Fr. Peter

 



Dear Father Peter:

Jesus said in Mark 11:24 that whatever a person prays for and believes in confidence, it will come to pass. My question is I heard a clergyman say that it applies to the revealed will of God. That is, if one is certain that the thing one is praying for is God's will for that individual, the prayer will indeed be answered. Is this true?
Thank you Father.

Randy

 

Dear Randy,

God's Blessings!

Christ was very clear: "Therefore I say to you, whatever you ask, praying, believe that you will receive it, and you shall have it."  We read also in Matthew chapter 21 verses 21-22: "And Jesus answering said to them, Truly I say to you, If you have faith, and do not doubt, not only will you do what has taken place in the fig tree, but also, if you shall say to this mountain, "be uprooted, and thrown into the sea," it shall be done.  And all things, whatsoever you shall ask for in prayer, believe, you shall receive."

Christ did not specify and say that we should pray only for things that are revealed to us.   He meant WHATEVER - IN FAITH!  To have a tree uprooted - is this God's revealed truth to us?  Why would anyone want to uproot a tree and throw it into the sea?  Yet, Jesus Himself used this as an example of WHATEVER - IN FAITH.

You see, the Holy Spirit who dwells within a person inspires each person differently to communicate with our heavenly Father.  Each one has different desires and longings - so that by listening to these desires and longings (which the Holy Spirit gives us to show us how we can build up the Body of Christ), and by striving to accomplish these desires in our lives and by praying for them, we may bring them to fruition.   If God Himself puts these desires in our hearts, He will definitely hear us - if we pray in FAITH!

When we have that much faith, we live for God only and we do not seek our own desires and whims any more.  So we would not use this gift for selfish reasons or for show.  Jesus refused to do miracles for that reason because people wanted to see "magic".  We start to use this gift for the greater glory of God and to spread the Kingdom of God.   Just think of what Jesus Himself had done.  He rebuked the wind and sea, drove out demons, healed the sick and sinners.  We could have the same power - if we have faith and see the need of the people of God.  Read stories about the saints - how they multiplied food, protected people from harm, levitated, bilocated even conversed with God Himself.   All these things were done IN FAITH, WHATEVER the need they encountered.  They provided God's blessings by doing WHATEVER .

United in Prayer

Fr. Peter

 



QUESTIONS FOR JUNE 2002



 

Father Peter,

I am a very big fan of the EWTN network and the Daily Mass that is shown is in Latin.   I am aware that the "Traditional Mass" is permitted only under special guidelines.  What exactly is the Holy Mother's Church's teaching on using Latin for the "New Mass"?

Yours in Christ,
Sean Conner 

 



 

Sean:

The Code of Canon Law writes:

Can. 838 §1 The ordering and guidance of the sacred liturgy depends solely upon the authority of the Church, namely that of the Apostolic See ,and as provided by law, that of the diocesan Bishop.

§2 It is the prerogative of the Apostolic See to regulate the sacred liturgy of the universal Church, to publish liturgical books and review their vernacular translations, and to be watchful that liturgical regulations are everywhere faithfully observed.

What was so interesting in the development of the liturgy over the centuries was, that it did not develop since practically 1563 - when the principal liturgical books of the Roman Rite were issued according to the norms of the Council of Trent; which were: The Roman Breviary, the Roman Missal, the Roman Pontifical, the Roman Ritual and the Roman Martyrology and Ceremonial of Bishops.  They remained unchanged practically until Vatican II.  But as the understanding of Christ's call grew, which is: that ALL people ought to enter into liturgy - not just the so called "functionaries" which were the priests and deacons at the altar, things began to change.  Many people did not understand Latin, nor did they know what was going on.  Between 1968 and 1970 the liturgical books were brought up-to-date, that is, let God's people participate actively in mind and heart in the worship of God.

Now the official books were published in a basic and exemplary edition, called the editio typica, by the Apostolic See itself.  From these publications the vernacular was developed - and before publication in the vernacular, these translations were approved by the Holy See.

In the Sacramentary which is in  use in our day, there is also a section called Novis Ordo - which is the celebration of the the Mass in Latin - in the new form.  In the late 60ties the Church reviewed the Mass and made it more "people-friendly," that is, retained the essentials of the Mass and cut out the non-essential things, implemented the vernacular and opened the doors wide to the faithful. 

Latin today is still the official language of Mother Church, and all documents are published in Latin and then translated.  And the Code of Canon Law also writes in Code 928: "The eucharistic celebration is to be carried out either in the Latin language or in another language, provided the liturgical texts have been lawfully approved."  In Code # 249: "The Charter of Priestly Formation is to provide that the students are not only taught their native language accurately, but are also well versed in Latin, and have a suitable knowledge of other languages which would appear to be necessary or useful for their formation or for the exercise of their pastoral ministry."   From this we can see that the Latin is still very much part of our heritage as Latin Rite Catholics.

Any priest can use the Latin as printed in the Sacramentary (Novis Ordo).  For any other form of liturgy, the local bishop must give his approval.

Fr Peter Auer

 



Father Auer:

I was confirmed approximately 4 years ago and chose the name Ambrose. I had always intended on choosing the name Patrick and then actually using it in addition to my legal name, but I was rushed to choose and for some reason Patrick slipped my mind.  Is there any way to have paperwork changed to use the name Patrick instead of Ambrose? 

Thanks for your help,
James 
 



 

 

James:

The Confirmation name is part of an official document, since it was registered in the Baptismal Registry, which the Code of Canon Law requires (Code 895).  The best way to go about changing it would be to go the place of Confirmation and ask the pastor to accomplish this for you.  It might be wise to bring with you the certificate of Baptism/Confirmation for verification.   This should not be all too difficult.

Maybe the name Ambrose is not so bad after all - consider all that St. Ambrose has accomplished!!!  http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/01383c.htm

Father Peter Auer

 



Fr Amaro Saumell

QUESTIONS FOR MAY 2002



Dear Father:

Are you able to follow God and earn your place in Heaven without proclaiming a specific religion?  Daniel

Dear Daniel:

We never "earn"  a place in Heaven.   Jesus did that for us.  We inherited a fallen nature.  We are incapable of earning Heaven.

However, when Jesus took our human flesh, He was resurrected and restored a place for humanity in Heaven.  He commanded us to live on in His love.  Love is His very existence.  When we live in Him, we are brought before the Father.  In other words, Jesus opened Heaven for us who participate with His very being and accomplishment.

Now, there are some who would say that one has to be saved in the name of Jesus.  But ask yourself, "What is Jesus' name?"   Silly question?  Well Jesus has many names...Truth, Way, Life, Emanuel, Kings of Kings, Lord, Messiah, Christ, Word, etc.

If one is acting on truth, aren't they acting in Jesus and His accomplishment?  If that person has never heard the Gospel and has been looking for God and purity and living in truth, don't you think that to a degree he is acting in Jesus as the truth?  Isn't he participating with the Righteous One?   No, he didn't earn Heaven.  But don't you think that a merciful God is with Him?

When we know the Gospel, we have a responsibility to participate with it.  We have a responsibility to participate with it.  We have the responsibility to act on what we've been privileged to know and appreciate.

You see, it is Jesus accomplishment.  Not ours!   No matter how we fight it, we know that Jesus did in fact, establish an Apostolate.   He had an intention behind it.  He formed a discipleship.  If we are to call Him "Lord" and mean it, we must look for that intention.  He gave us His Body and Blood.  He only authorized one way that this can be celebrated.  He gave those Apostles and their successors the authority to forgive sins.  He didn't give that authority to the general discipleship.  So, where are the successors to the Apostles now?  You'll only find them in the Church that Jesus founded.  If you know this, you have the responsibility to act on it.  Anything that we reject belonging to the intention of Jesus is to reject Jesus Himself.  What religion did He establish.. and where is this intention carried out on earth?  Hope this helps.

Father Amaro



Fr. Peter Auer

QUESTIONS FOR MAY 2002



Dear Father:

What are the reasons that the Catholic Church is against Capital Punishment?  Thank you.

Adam

Adam:

The 5th Commandment tells: "You shall not kill" (Ex 20:13, Deut 5:17).  The reason for that is: Human life is sacred because from its beginning it involves the creative action of God and it remains forever in a special relationship with the Creator Who is sole end.  God alone is the Lord of life from its beginning until its end: no one under any circumstance can claim for himself the right directly to destroy an innocent human being." (Donum Vitae, intro 5).   More on this can be found in the Catechism of the Catholic Church # 2258ff.

It was God Who created us out of nothing.    We were made for God.  All our life ought to be aimed at pleasing Him and trying to imitate our God.  If God is a giver of life, we must uphold this life.   If for whatever reason someone commits a crime against others (like killing of an innocent human being), this carries a responsibility onto society to defend and stop this unjust aggressor.  Catholic teaching upholds that "...traditional teaching of the Church does not exclude recourse to the death penalty if this is the only possible way of effectively defending human lives against the unjust aggressor." (Catechism #2267).  But it also reminds us that if possible, we should use non-lethal means if they are available.  Even though a person has committed such a horrendous crime, that person is still made by God in His image and likeness.  For further reading, please check out EWTN's library, where Fr. William Saunders has written an article.
http://www.ewtn.com/library/ANSWERS/DEATHPEN.HTM

Father Peter Auer

 



Dear Father:

Do those who are not Catholic go to Heaven?  If a person is a Southern Baptist and they were "baptized" and "born again" in the Baptist faith, does this "count" as a Catholic baptism and confirmation?  I was told as a child that no one will enter Heaven who wasn't baptized.  Does that mean Catholic baptism only?  Thanks.

Rene'

Dear Rene'

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states in #1271:  "Baptism constitutes the foundation of communion among all Christians, including those who are not yet in full communion with the Catholic Church.   "For men who believe in Christ and have been properly baptized are put in some, though imperfect, communion with the Catholic Church.  Justified by faith in Baptism, (they) are incorporated into Christ; they therefore have a right to be called Christians, and with good reason are accepted as brothers by the children of the Catholic Church." (Unitatis Redentegratio 3) "Baptism therefore constitutes the sacramental bond of unity existing among all through it are reborn." (UR 22,2)"

The Baptism: pouring of water over the forehead or immersion, with the formula of: "I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" with the intention to baptize, is a valid Baptism and therefore does not need to be repeated when a person joins the Catholic Church.   There is only one Baptism, which is universal(there is no longer a Jew, a Greek, male or female, slave or free, we are all one in Christ - Galatians 3:28).  Baptism leaves an imprint on the soul - and therefore, once you have received such a mark on your soul, you cannot UNDO it.  It will be there for all eternity - this is the mark of Christ, by which the Father loves you and unites you with Himself through the Holy Spirit.   In and through this mark, we can truly worship our God.

But!!!  Baptism is distinct from Confirmation!!!  These are 2 different Sacraments.  In Baptism we become a Child of God - in confirmation we receive the fullness and power of the Holy Spirit.  That helps us to truly live that life of Christ - to be able to stand up for what is right and defend the poor and oppressed.  Christ Himself in His human form after His Baptism, the Heavens opened up and the Spirit descended upon Him.  This started His mission.   So we too should be now empowered to work for our Father.  (Check out John 20:22).  Christ breathed on the disciples and said: "Receive the Holy Spirit."  From that time on, the disciples imparted to the newly baptized by the laying on of hands. This is listed among the first elements of Christian instruction.   The imposition of hands is rightly recognized by the Catholic tradition as the origin of the sacraments of Confirmation, which in a certain way perpetuates the grace of Pentecost in the Church." (Catechism of Catholic Church#1288).

Fr Peter Auer

 



Fr Amaro Saumell

APRIL 2002



 

Father Amaro:

You were in the Catholic Chat room and stated to "James" that he would never see God with his attitude.  I asked several times why you said this.  Would you please explain this to me?  I've always believed God was in our lives regardless of our status as Christians.  He was always there.  Please reply. 

Sarah


Sarah:

I can't say that I remember such a conversation.   However, if someone was refusing to examine a relationship with God, I would definitely have warned them of such a danger.  Yes, God is always in our life.   But the relationship is only consummated by our placing our lives in His in response.  If our response is an unmitigated "no", we must expect God to respect our wishes.

God bless, Fr. Amaro

 



Father:

Over a year ago we had a change of our parish priest.  Prior to this change, our community was growing rapidly and services were always full.  When the new priest came, his style or lack thereof started to turn people off and many left toother parishes.  I know this is not a unique problem.   What is your advice to parishioners that do not like or receive decent ministry from this new priest?  Thanks,  Jamie.


Dear Jamie:

Unfortunately, this type of thing seems to happen all too often.  It makes us realize that we may not be teaching the faith as we should.  Or, maybe we're not learning it.

The central teaching of our faith is that of Jesus.   We are called to love God and neighbor.  That doesn't mean that we have to "like" our neighbor or what our neighbor does.  Nowhere are we called to abandon neighbor.

The problem here is that we, especially in American society, often view our parishes as "clubs" rather than a worshipping community of those spiritually and geographically united in the Eucharist.  Our individual maturity is at stake here if we "take our ball and go home" when things don't happen as we want them or think they should.  When one is truly united with the reality of the Eucharist and to neighbor, one shows the maturity of faith by living that unity and participating with the education and growth without emotionalism.  When one leaves a community because preferences are not being met, there is no sign of "dying to self" and living for the Gospel of forgiveness and understanding.  That Gospel of forgiveness and understanding must leave room for all to know that even a priest goes to confession.

Sadly, we as a Church have not taught this unity as well as we should.  But we are making headway as we encourage collaboration in ministry.  This, of course, means that the laity must be willing to be educated before making criticisms.

I hope that you will read my article "Recovering Catholics" at my personal web site.

God bless, Fr. Amaro

 




Dear Father:

My question concerns the confidentiality of confession.  If someone confesses to a priest, but they don't seem sincere about seeking forgiveness does the priest still have to keep the confession secret?  Also, if during confession someone reveals they are suicidal or they are tempted to commit a crime can the priest do anything to stop them?

Thanks for your time.  Brad.

Dear Brad:

Often, sincerity is equated with emotion by an observer.  The observer is often the self too.  It's interesting that you should bring up this question because it strikes me personally.

I recently went to confession and had to struggle with my sincerity.  I didn't "feel" an emotional sorrow for something that I did.  I did, however, have the knowledge of right and wrong and used the conviction of that information and my intent to correct the problem no matter how I "felt".

Thankfully, the priest understood exactly where I was coming from.  But, even if he didn't, a priest is not there to be judge or jury.   He is only there to vicariously extend that power of forgiveness that was given to the Apostles.  It is NEVER a priest's place to judge.

Confessional material may never, under any circumstances whatsoever, be revealed.  Even if someone is "tempted" to commit a crime or commit suicide.  Temptation is not a sin.  It is a psychological dysfunction.  A priest normally is not a psychologist.  He would, under those circumstances always be prepared to refer.  He could also attempt to have the person come speak to him outside the confessional.  Then, and only then can the material be dealt with in the eternal forum.

God bless, Fr. Amaro

 



Dear Father:

My understanding is that a decree of nullity is easily obtained for a marriage that has not been consummated.  Since the marriage of Mary and Joseph was not consummated, was it valid?

Thanks, Gwen

Dear Gwen,

People often think of the consummation of a marriage only in sexual terms.  Yet, there are marriages recorded throughout the Church's history that were dedicated to God with the specific intention of abstinence by choice as part of the covenant.  This is a very serious undertaking and can be acceptable under the proper extraordinary conditions, usually before the marriage takes place.  It is the exception rather than the rule.

Sexuality is to be life giving.  Joseph and Mary already were in a situation to nurture the life that had been given to their custody, for it gave life to us all.  They were consecrated to a task and prepared to take on the responsibility.  Would you not say their covenant was fulfilled?  Hope this helps.

God bless, Fr Amaro

 



Father:

I wonder if you could tell me where it says that the Pope is infallible in the Bible.  I understand he is infallible in faith and morals.   That pretty much covers everything, I think?  I live in Palm Beach and we have had 3 Bishops in a row brought up on charges for molesting children or hiding the truth.   I am a Catholic and am staying with the Church but my non-Catholic friends are asking me all kinds of questions.  I would appreciate an answer about the Pope.   Thank you for this service.    Andrea

Andrea:

You might check out Peter's confession of faith to Jesus.  Jesus' response was..(Matt 16:17) And Jesus answered him, "Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jona!  For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.  And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the powers of death shall not prevail against it.  I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."

It is interesting to note that many who will quote scripture will completely ignore this passage.  The authority to bind and loose is spoken very clearly here.  However, this authority is not used arbitrarily.  It has only been used twice in the last two centuries; once concerning the Immaculate Conception of Mary and the other, the Assumption of Mary.

You must still remember that Peter was capable of sin even after this statement.  For this passage took place before the crucifixion and Peter's denial of Jesus.

God bless, Fr. Amaro

 



Father:

In today Gospel (John 8:1-11), Jesus knelt down twice and wrote in the sand.  What does the Church teach about this?  And what did he write?  Adam

Dear Adam,

I don't think there is any real answer that is not speculation for this question.  And yet, the two most popular speculations make sense.  One is that Jesus was writing the sins down of those who were ready to persecute others.  The other theory is that he would not look the sinners who had no shame in the face as a sign of His disapproval.  Another theory is that Jesus was writing a "sentence" down as a judge that would be proclaimed when he stood up to deliver it to the persecutors of the adulterous woman.  All of these make sense.

God bless, Fr. Amaro

 




Father Amaro:

If we believe that Jesus is the Messiah of the Jews and yet the Jews do not believe that He is their Messiah, then who is telling the truth?   Is it truly possible that God did not allow His own chosen people, the Jews, to recognize Jesus as the Lord?

Robin

Dear Robin:

The Hebrew people were the chosen people through whom the Messiah would come.  It takes us each individually to embrace a relationship with Him.  Many Hebrew people did.  All of the Apostles were Hebrew as were most all of the earliest disciples.  It was only afterwards that the Gentile world recognized Him as Lord and God.

Jesus is the Messiah for all.  He affords all humanity salvation.  It is up to each individual to seek and to understand.  It is our task to evangelize and share our faith that all who will may do so.

God bless, Fr. Amaro

 




Dear Father:

With so much media coverage on the corruptness of the Catholic Priests how does a lifetime Catholic keep their head straight and remember that this is only a handful?  Why am I really starting to question my faith?  I have been Catholic for 50 years and I am so very sad.  I know I should go to my parish priest and speak with him but at times I feel that I am inconveniencing him.   Can you please help?  I have one more question please.  I have never read the Bible but am currently listening to the King James version on tapes.  I am also having a hard time with believing that my God would be selfish and blood thirsty as it comes across in Exodus.  Why would He say not to pray to others for He is a selfish God?  Yet we pray to Mary and all the Saints.  I am so confused.  Can you please help?  I would greatly appreciate it.  Thank you so much.    Denise

Denise:

There is no reason to question your faith.   There is, however, reason to be curious as to the practice of the faith of those who approach vocations with such serious dysfunction in their lives.  But we must also question ourselves as a people.  So often we expect vocations to materialize out of nowhere.  But if we have not been fostering good vocations, we must expect that we're going to get the "leftovers" of those who will come forward.  If we are not encouraging our healthy men to come forward, we must expect what we get.

The second part of your question must be taken in the perspective of the writers of the Scripture.  First of all, we must savor that quality of God that makes Him so protective of us.  Secondly, we must remember that the word "pray" can mean either mere request or it can mean worship.  In the particular context of this particular scripture, it means to "worship".   We are to worship no one except God.  Remember, the Scriptures were now written in English.  Our translations are adapted to our most closely fitting vocabulary.

God bless, Fr. Amaro

 



Father Amaro Saumell    

MARCH 2002



 

Father:

I am a practicing Catholic and part of my family is Jewish.  I am seriously considering converting to Judaism.  Knowing that the Holy Father stated that God's covenant with the Jews is still intact, would I be condemned for accepting that covenant and the Jewish faith? Thank you, Father

Christina

Dear Christina:

If you were planning a big event such as a wedding and made all the preparations, would you call off the ceremony itself just because you liked what what was prepared?  I don't think so.  While the Jewish faith is beautiful in its own right, its fulfillment is in Jesus Christ.  The Hebrew people were the chosen of God to bring forth the Messiah.  I think you have to ask yourself, especially if you are a practicing Catholic, why would you want to go back to the preparation, when you already have its fulfillment.

God bless, Father Amaro

 



 

Father:

I am a young female in my early twenties and have been a practicing Catholic all my life.  Recently, I have come to better understand my faith.  While it has been great to rediscover my faith, I now feel very confused about one particular topic - mortal sins.  I have only recently started going to confession again, and now realize the grace it offers.  But I am worried about past sins.  As a child I never learned about mortal sins and venial sins, I just thought actions against God were sinful.  During my childhood years, I would often pray for forgiveness, thinking that it was okay to confess this way and I would be forgiven.   Having now realized that any unconfessed mortal sin could land me in Hell for all eternity, I am concerned about my past.  What if I have committed mortal sins as a child and now have no recollection?  Or did not realize they were mortal sins?   How can I now ask for forgiveness for all past mortal sins?  Is it enough to say in the confessional "for these and all my past sins I am truly sorry" and will this absolve me of past mortal sins?  If not, how can I go about starting off anew (that is, absolved of all past mortal sins)?  Thanks.

Liz

Dear Liz:

Congratulations on deepening your faith on an adult level.  There is so much to learn and you'll never get bored.

I think if you understand what constitutes a "mortal" sin, you would be much relieved.  There are three components:

     (1)  Grave Matter - A serious offense
     (2)  Sufficient Reflection - You had to have the time to think about and consider the consequences in an informed conscience.
     (3)  Complete Consent of Will - You have to have made a choice against God's Will with full knowledge of what you were doing.      

When you look at a child of the same age you were when you had these experiences, could you honestly believe that they had all the qualities to really commit something mortal?

You might ask why we expose little children to confession.  Well, it shows them at a very young age the accessibility of forgiveness.  That is where we priests make a real difference in our presentation of either invitation or condemnation.  It could be that your introduction to the sacrament was not the best and it induced fear in you.  If that is the case, I am so sorry.

God bless, Father Amaro

 



Father:

My daughter asked "Did Judas go to Hell or Heaven"?  What does the Church say about this?  Thank you, Father.

Duane

Dear Duane,

While through the evidence of their lives, the Church will proclaim saints, she will never make a proclamation of damnation...not even of Judas.  No one knows the heart of a person.  No one knows if just before the noose tightened, he had a flash of repentance.  I know this doesn't answer your question but some questions are really up to God, because He alone knows the human heart.

God bless, Father Amaro

 



Father:

After getting married by a judge, is it possible to have a formal wedding in the Catholic Church?  Also, how can matrimony be denied by the Catholic Church?  Thank you Father.

Rochelle

Dear Rochelle:

If you are baptized, you are not married.  You might have a civil contract, but by no means is it a marriage.  A marriage is a covenant with specific proclamation in Christ.  A judge cannot baptize, confirm, or anoint the sick.  A judge cannot ordain or bless.  A judge cannot do any of these things because he has no faculties within the Kingdom of God to do such things.   Please take some time and visit the page on my web site Fr Amaro’s Home Page called "marriage".  I think it will really open your eyes as to what a marriage in Christ is.  My prayer for you is that you will praise God that He is calling you to something that rises way above earthly values.

God bless, Fr Amaro

 



Father:

I am a Eucharistic Minister at my Church and I find I don't want to be one anymore because it is expected that at EVERY Mass you must make sure enough EM's are on the altar(rather that just serve on scheduled Sundays).  Am I being selfish and should I "bite" the bullet" of self sacrifice and continue serving or since my attitude is not pure, quit this ministry.  I feel that I cannot fully immerse myself in the Mass when I have to worry about logistics.  I try to concentrate fully on the Mass but when I have to count people, it removes me from this union.  Should I just be obedient to service or is it okay to indulge myself with God?  Thank you for your response.

Dora

Dear Dora:

First of all, let me explain that there is no such thing as a Eucharistic Minister that is not ordained.  Your ministry is that of Extraordinary minister of the Eucharist.  It is one of the most profound privileges that any Catholic can have.

I am not a morning person!  Why do I tell you this?  Well, in my very first assignment, I often had the 6:30 a.m. Mass.  I didn't feel like it.  However, I was not called to faith and ministry by feelings.   I was called to faith and ministry by conviction.  Conviction is making one's self available  to God at all times no matter how one "feels".  Jesus was in the Garden and prayed, "Father take this cup from me"...those were His feelings.  But then He acted on His conviction and said, "Not My will but Yours be done...".

As the "baptized" in Christ, we do not look for our feelings or convenience.  Ministry is the uncompromised availability to the service of Christ in a capacity one has been made privileged to be afforded.  The whole idea of Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist is first to bring the Blessed Sacrament to the sick.  Secondly, it is to always be available when needed at the distribution during the most wonderful event of our lives, the Eucharistic Celebration.

Take some time alone before the Blessed Sacrament at your Church.  Say "Here I am Lord, I come to do your will" and follow His instructions.  This grace filled time of Lent is a time that we relinquish the "self" control that always seems to cause confusion to the God control that gives lasting peace.  May you hear God's call.

God bless, Father Amaro



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