ASK A PRIEST
APRIL 2010


FATHER WILLIAM G. MENZEL
FATHER KEVIN BATES, SM
CATHOLICVIEW STAFF

______________________________

FATHER WILLIAM G. MENZEL
“Are we at the “Beginning of Sorrows?”
- Teresa

Father Bill:

With all the horrible things going on in this world right now, do you feel we are at the "Beginning of Sorrows"?  According to the Bible, I truly believe we are.  What do you think?   Teresa

Dear Teresa:

This is a question that, in one form or another, I have been asked many times over the years.   Usually I can inquire from the person precisely what it is that they are observing in the world and what part of the Bible they’re referring to.  Since I can’t do that with you, I’ll have to assume that the “horrible things going on in this world” are natural disasters, like earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions and floods, along with diseases like HIV/AIDS and human-caused disasters like wars, terrorism, ethnic cleansing, and abortion.

Then I’ll have to assume that the Bible passages you refer to are those which speak of a proliferation of such disasters as being signs of the “Beginning of Sorrows” or the end times (or, as is often the case, the destruction of Jerusalem and its temple by the Romans).

The way I usually answer this kind of inquiry is to point out that every era in human history has seen its share of “horrible things”.  Then I ask what is more horrible now, in 2010, than some of the horrible things of the past, such as the Black Death of medieval times, or the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in the first century C.E., or World War II in the twentieth century?  (The list of horrible things could go on and on, but I think you get the point.)

What I’m leading up to is this:  You asked me what I think, and my answer is that I don’t know whether the horrible things of our time are indicators of the “Beginning of Sorrows”.  I have no reason to think so now, any more (or less) than I would have fifty years ago.  One thing I do know, though, is that every single interpretation of end-time prophecies has so far been wrong.

Maybe the horrible things you refer to are, indeed, signs of the "Beginning of Sorrows"; maybe they are not.  I have no way of knowing.  No matter what we think about this, we ought not let ourselves be preoccupied with all the bad we see in the world lest we miss the good.  Nor should we permit such concerns to inhibit us from taking action to end the evils that are preventable and respond to those that are not.  Our Christian faith impels us to be a people of hope and action for the sake of the Gospel—always ready, for we know not the day nor the hour.  May God bless you.   -  Father Bill
“I had three abortions and confessed.  How can
I ask my babies for forgiveness?” - Sandie

Father Bill:

I had 3 abortions before and I have confessed my sins.  However, I still ponder on all my aborted children.    

Where are they now and what can I do to ask for forgiveness to them.  What can I do for them?  I am terribly guilty even after 17 years later. - Sandie

Dear Sandie:

I’m really glad you wrote.  My heart goes out to you as you mourn your loss and bear the burden of guilt for past sins.  Before I write anything else, though, I’m going to strongly encourage you to visit the “Hope after Abortion” website: http://www.hopeafterabortion.com/.  You can find a wealth of compassion and information here, including a way to connect with Project Rachel, should it be available in your area.   You will also learn that you are not alone in your grieving.

Your aborted children are in God’s hands.  You must trust that. God loved them from the moment they were conceived, and that love never ends.  Since you have long since sought forgiveness from God, there can be no doubt that He has forgiven you. Surely your aborted children have also forgiven you.  There is nothing   more you need to do.

One of the reasons that Jesus made the forgiveness of sins such an important ministry for His Church is that God wants to free us from the burdens that sin imposes.  It’s not that we should never feel guilt; in fact, a healthy sense of guilt helps to keep us honest about the reality of sin and its consequences.    But God doesn’t  want us to wallow in the murk of a guilt that is so strong that it paralyzes our lives and leaves us without hope and takes away our joy.

I’m sure that your aborted children want you to be at peace.  They want you to know that you are forgiven and loved.  Now, perhaps with their help, there is something else that you can do. To the extent that you are comfortable and able, you might consider finding a way to help women who are considering abortion by  volunteering to help a pro-life organization.  Or if Project Rachel is available in your area, you might consider volunteering to help other women who have repented their abortions and are seeking healing.  Since I don’t know you and don’t know your present circumstances, I’m not trying to push these ideas.  I’m only suggesting some possible ways that you can put your own experience to work in a positive way that would save lives and help other women avoid the suffering you have experienced.

You are a good person, Sandie.  God loves you more than you can possible imagine.  So do your children. 
May God bless you.  - Father Bill

 
“Is it possible for God to be tempted?”
– Matthew

Father Bill:

Is it possible for God to be tempted?  I was reading a website that cited James 1:13 (Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted by evil, and He himself tempts no one). 

But wasn't God tempted by the devil to allow him to harm Job, to which God caved in and agreed?  And did the devil not tempt Jesus in the desert?  Please clear this up for me.  Thanks in advance. - Matthew

Dear Matthew,

What an interesting question!  One of the reasons that I enjoy doing this work for A Catholic View is that I get to think about things that I’ve never really considered before.

In a way, I think you answered your question already, when you quoted James 1:13: “God is not subject to temptation to evil”.   I don’t think it can be stated any clearer than that, which means that the rest of your questions have to be answered with that incontrovertible truth as background. 

Since God can’t be tempted to evil, the examples you give have to be understood in some other way.  We could quibble about the word “tempted”, but I don’t think that the Book of Job shows God being tempted by Satan. I know that many people are uncomfortable when I say this, but…the Book of Job is a story meant to teach some important lessons; it is not an actual argument between God and Satan.

Simply put, the story tells of those two entering into a wager.  God bets that Job will remain loyal to Him, even in the face of multiple injustices; Satan bets that He won’t.  Even if this weren’t a story, I still wouldn’t see this as Satan “tempting” God.

There can be no doubt that Satan tempted Jesus in the desert, but we Christians always have to remember that Jesus was completely human as well as completely divine.  As a human being like us, He was a subject to temptation as you and I are.  If we were to assert that Jesus was not subject to temptation, then we would be denying His humanity, and I don’t think that we want to do that!

Thanks for your interesting question, Matthew.  May God bless you. - Father Bill

FATHER KEVIN BATES, SM

“Can I, as a Catholic, be open-minded to the
spiritual path of Buddhism?” - Minu

Father Kevin:

Can a person be Catholic and open-minded to other spiritual paths like Buddhism? I have been practicing Buddhism for the past five years and value the teachings; I was raised Catholic. Lately, I've been praying desperately to God because I am unwell. My family is devout Catholic, and I want to feel more connected to them but also be true to myself.  Thank you. - Minu

Hello Minu:

Thanks for you question.  Of course a person can be open to other religious traditions.  The Vatican Council clearly taught that other religious traditions have something of God’s Truth, and that we believe that the fullness of what God wanted to share with us is in our Catholic Tradition.  I hope you are well again soon.  Praying desperately usually indicates that your focus is on yourself rather than on God.  This is part of the limitation of Buddhism to a point that our focus there is largely on our own well-being.   Christian prayer has as its main focus on the love of God.  Of course we pray for our own needs, but in the main Christian prayers is about the praise of God, and this prayer, of course, never needs to be desperate.  All good wishes.  - Father Kevin

 
“Am I committing a mortal sin if I struggle to
believe a Church teaching?” - Matt

Father Kevin:

I have a question on mortal sin. I'm not currently Catholic, but seriously considering converting (and have struggled with it for years). I understand the three criteria that must be met for a sin to be mortal sin. What if I really struggle with a Church teaching that I can't really believe is sinful (I'm thinking of the use of birth control within a valid marriage)? Am I truly committing a mortal sin if I really struggle to believe that such an act is a sin, let alone a mortal one? I respect church teaching and struggle to understand it, but I can't really reconcile it with myself reasonably at this point. - Matt

Dear Matt:

Many people in the Church struggle with such issues.  Pope Paul VI's theological commission struggled with it and so did the Pope in 1968 before he made his decision to write the encyclical Humanae Vitae, which dealt with birth control among other issues.  The way we grow in faith and in our understanding of our faith is by questioning, struggling, learning to understand and exploring the issues with each other.  This is how the Holy Spirit works in the Church.  So I'd suggest you struggle away with a good conscience just like most of us do!!  If we think we have all the answers and don't need to ask any questions, we're kidding ourselves and we are certainly not true to our deeper Catholic Tradition.  All good wishes. - Father Kevin

“A house fire took the lives of two children. 
Do they go to heaven?” - Christy

Father Kevin:

Recently there was a house fire that took the lives of two young children.  I need answers because I cannot get an image out of my head on how terrifying that must have been for those poor children!  Do babies and children go to heaven?  Especially after a death like that? - Christy

Dear Christy:

If God is who we say God is, then there is no doubt that children in such disasters go straight home to God's heart. God loves without conditions.  It is we who so often feel the need to put conditions on that love and when we do we are short-changing God and ourselves. Can you imagine God turning away from those children?  I can't either.

Let God love you the same way eh!  - Father Kevin

CATHOLICVIEW STAFF

“What possible reason can God have for taking my
son? – Kyle

CatholicView Staff:

Why is my son dead? What possible reason can God have for taking my son? – Kyle

Kyle:

I am so sorry for the loss of your son.  To lose a child is a terrible thing for a parent to face.

The big question that plays in our hearts is WHY?  Why my son?  None of us truly knows why God allows these things to happen.  This is a question we cannot answer and we have to trust God in His wisdom.  One day when we stand before Him all these things will be answered for us.

It must be remembered that sickness and death are great, great evils; they were not "supposed" to be a part of this world, and came about as a consequence of the sin of Adam. Christ, of course, conquered the tomb and gives us the hope of eternal life. Catholics, then, look at death for what it is -- an evil -- but cling to the hope He offers, trusting in His Divine Mercy while also realizing that He is Just. Christ Himself wept before the dead Lazarus.

Through these earthly toils, we have to depend on Him because we know the pitfalls we all are going to face in this sin-filled and troubled world.  None of us escapes.  But the one thing we do know is that God loves us. 

Through the suffering and loss of our loved ones, He makes us strong and gives us the grace and strength to carry on.  He loves us, He loves us so much He sent His Son to die for us and pay for our sins with His blood so we can be free to live with Him forever.  So keep on praying, knowing this world is filled with misery but not forever.  Don’t give up!   One day, you will see your beloved son again, not for a short lifetime but through never ending eternity.  This is God’s promise for all who believe.   This is not the end.  We Christians may die, but like Jesus did and promised to us, we will live again in glory..FOREVER!

I am praying for you.  May God’s peace descend upon you and give you comfort.  – CatholicView Staff

“Is it a mortal sin to arrive after the gospel
reading at Mass?” – Ann

CatholicView Staff:

Is it a mortal sin to arrive after the gospel reading at Mass? – Ann

Dear Ann:

There is no official teaching of the Church concerning a time when we have not fulfilled our Sunday obligation.   Some think the major cut-off point for late arrival is before the readings and most assuredly before the gospel is read.  At any rate, it seems to be a matter of conscience as a Catholic believer and our desire to give to the Lord this full hour of our time each week.

Because Sunday Mass is important, one should strive to be present for all of it.  In fact, if a person can arrive a few minutes before mass, this is even better because we would have the time to compose our minds through silent prayer.

Here is some additional information:

Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy at the Regina Apostolorum Pontifical Athenaeum states: “Like most priests, I am loath to give a straight answer to this question because, in a way, it is a catch-22 question for which there is no right answer.

It is true that before the Second Vatican Council some moral theology manuals placed arrival before the offertory as the dividing line in deciding whether one fulfilled the Sunday obligation of assistance at Mass. But after the liturgical reform, with its emphasis on the overall unity of the Mass, modern theologians shy away from such exactitude.

Mass begins with the entrance procession and ends after the final dismissal and we should be there from beginning to end. Each part of the Mass relates and complements the others in a single act of worship even though some parts, such as the consecration, are essential while others are merely important.

To say that there is a particular moment before or after which we are either "out" or "safe," so to speak, is to give the wrong message and hint that, in the long run, some parts of the Mass are really not all that important. It may also give some less fervent souls a yardstick for arriving in a tardy manner.

Although I prefer not to hazard giving a precise cutoff moment, certainly someone who arrives after the consecration has not attended Mass, should not receive Communion, and if it is a Sunday, go to another Mass.

Arriving on time is not just a question of obligation but of love and respect for Our Lord who has gathered us together to share his gifts, and who has some grace to communicate to us in each part of the Mass.

It is also a sign of respect for the community with whom we worship and who deserves our presence and the contribution of our prayers in each moment. The liturgy is essentially the worship of Christ's body, the Church. Each assembly is called upon to represent and manifest the whole body but this can hardly happen if it forms itself in drips and drabs after the celebration has begun.

Thus people who arrive late to Mass have to honestly ask themselves, Why? If they arrive late because of some justified reason or unforeseen event, such as blocked traffic due to an accident, they have acted in good conscience and are not strictly obliged to assist at a later Mass (although they would do well to do so if they arrive very late and it is possible for them).

Likewise for many elderly people, even getting to the church is an odyssey, and one must not burden their consciences by counting the minutes.

If people arrive late due to culpable negligence, and especially if they do so habitually, then they need to seriously reflect on their attitudes, amend their ways, and if necessary seek the sacrament of reconciliation.

Depending on how late they arrive they should prefer to honor the Lord's day by attending some other Mass, or, if this is not possible, at least remain in the Church after Mass is over and dedicate some time to prayer and reflection on the readings of the day.”   http://www.catholic.org/featured/headline.php?ID=469

Hope this helps, Ann.  God bless you.  – CatholicView Staff

“Are Catholics permitted to eat in a restaurant
placing others in servile work on the Sabbath?”  - Ryan

CatholicView Staff:

My question is in regards to the 3rd Commandment.  I believe I understand how to discern most of it correctly although my question is specific in regards to servile work.  Are Catholics permitted to eat at a restaurant on Sunday or is this contributing to placing others in servile work?  Thank you very much for your time. - Ryan

Dear Ryan:

Thank you for your question.  You are referring to the Commandment which states, “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work; but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God; in it you shall not do any work.” 

We must leave this one up to God’s judgment.  It would be hard to determine if these working people have attended Mass on Saturday, which would fulfill their Sunday Obligation, or if they may be in dire need of money to support their families.  Some may not be Catholic or a believer in some other religion.  Or perhaps in none. 

And so, because we cannot judge, it is not wrong to enjoy a Sunday meal.  God bless you for caring about the souls of others. – CatholicView Staff 

“I dreamed someone stole the Monstrance off the
Church’s altar.  What does this mean?” - Gee

CatholicView Staff:

I had a dream someone I know stole the Monstrance off of the altar and ran out of the church very angry. What do you think this means?

Dear Gee:

Thank you for writing to CatholicView.  The Monstrance is a receptacle in which the consecrated Host is exposed for adoration. Unfortunately, this forum cannot provide an interpretation of your dream.  If this dream is of great concern, perhaps you could make an appointment with your priest who can talk this over with you.  May the Lord bless you always.  – CatholicView Staff

“I am dating a divorced Lutheran man with
children.  Will I be able to marry him?” Gabby

CatholicView Staff:

I am a young Catholic who is starting to see a man who is recently divorced.  He is a Lutheran, was married in that faith, and has children.   Our relationship is just beginning, but I can sometimes see it getting serious.  Am I ever going to be able to marry him or is it waste of time to pursue this relationship? - Gabby

Gabby:

The man you are dating is still validly married to his wife in the eyes of the Catholic Church and his marriage must be annulled before he can marry you in the Church.  But yes, once the annulment is obtained, you can marry in the Church.

See your parish priest to discuss this matter.  You must consider that should you have children, will he want your children to pursue your faith and will he support you in yours?  Realize also that he must continue to support the children of that first marriage, not only monetarily but in their Lutheran faith. – CatholicView Staff

“I have fallen in love with a priest.  What should
I do?”  Tina

CatholicView Staff:

I have fallen in love with a Priest who is a close and valued family friend (the feeling is possibly mutual). I am separated from my husband for almost 5 years. Though I respect the Priest and his vocation, I am increasingly falling into sin through my thoughts.  I have prayed about this for a very long time. – Tina

Dear Tina:

I am sorry that you find yourself in this predicament.  It is not unusual that many give their priests a hero status and fall ‘in love’.   Common sense somehow gets lost and emotions take over.

The thing to remember is that the priest, while just as human as you are, is bound by the vows he took before God.  But you know that already.  To try to change that would be wrong.

See another parish priest to discuss this matter..  You must consider that you are putting yourself and the priest in very serious circumstance of sin.  I think you should continue to pray, asking God to remove these feelings.  It will take time but God can do all things.

It is time for you to move on, trusting that the Lord will send someone who is free to love you without you taking on the sin of temptation to someone who is not available to you.  This priest is, in essence, married to the Church.  This is like trying to steal a husband from a wife, but much more serious.

I would highly suggest that you remove yourself from this parish and go to another Church.  Stop the constant reminders each Sunday.  And continue to pray, for the Lord hears your prayers. 

I ask that God, in His mercy, take these feelings away and set you free to love and adore someone who does not have the constraints of priesthood.  May God strengthen you.  – CatholicView Staff

“What effect does civil annulment have on
Catholic marriage?" - Peter

CatholicView Staff:

What effect does a civil annulment have upon a Catholic marriage?  Does this also annul or delete the Church marriage also? – Peter

Dear Peter:

Thank you for your question.  No, a civil annulment does not delete a Catholic marriage and is not acceptable for a Catholic union.   In order for a Catholic marriage to be dissolved, you must get an annulment through the Church.  And to get an annulment, the Catholic Church has to consider that your marriage was invalid.

A civil annulment is a declaration, by the state, that a marriage never existed even though a ceremony took place. There are limited grounds such as: failure to consummate, insanity, mental incompetence or one (or both) parties being under the legally required age. 

Your civil annulment is legal but not in the Catholic Church.  You are still married in the eyes of the Church.   If an annulment is granted, and should you want to marry again, you are free to do so.

See your parish priest to discuss this issue and determine what has to be done such as proof of marriage, etc.  – CatholicView Staff

“My TB blood test read positive.  I had enrolled in
a religious community.  What shall I do?” - Michael

CatholicView Staff:

I am in application status with a religious community. I just got a TB blood test and came back as positive, meaning that I have been exposed to it in the past.  I cannot believe that this is true, as I am never around any people that would have this.  I am now concerned greatly that this will bar me from the community.  Considering this, can I be turned down on this, even though I have never had the disease?  I have had many blood transfusions in my life and believe that I must have gotten it through those.  God Bless, Michael

Michael:

I am so sorry to hear about the results of your TB blood test.   And that this comes at a time when you are trying to be part of a religious community.

I have read that the vast majority of people who have TB germs in their bodies do not have an active case of the disease.  And also that a positive reaction to the tuberculin test does not mean the person is ill or contagious to others. It could mean that the germs causing tuberculosis have been or are present in the body, but unless other symptoms are evident, the germs are probably not active.

Did your doctor tell you that you can be treated with medication to eliminate the TB germs can be eliminated from your body so that a serious case of active TB can be prevented?

Find out if you eligible to obtain some kind of letter to show you are free of active Tuberculosis.   If you are in the clear with this disease, a letter or certificate may enable you to continue with your plans. 

Michael, we will say a prayer that all goes well.  May the Lord keep watch over you. – CatholicView Staff

“Can I have Julian of Norwich as my
Confirmation Saint?"  Patricia

CatholicView Staff:

I was raised and baptized as a Southern Baptist and received into the Church at the age of twenty. Due to some unusual circumstances, I have never been confirmed. I would LOVE to have Julian of Norwich as my confirmation saint, but I've heard that Julian has never been officially beatified/canonized.  Does that mean I CANNOT have Julian as my patron, since I love her dearly??? Thank you for answering!  Patricia

Patricia:

Interesting Question!  Yes, the name JULIAN OF NORWICH can be taken as a confirmation name.  She was a late fourteenth-century mystic and spiritual writer who chose to live a solitary life in a cell attached to the Church of Saint Julian in Norwich, England.   She was known for her wisdom and seekers approached the window of her cell to ask her questions about Christian faith and practice.  Although not actually a canonized saint, she is well known and loved, and many believe she is a saint by acclamation.  She has books in which she wrote down her mystical experiences with Jesus.  She has an amazing history.  One of her major works is called Sixteen Revelations of Divine Love (circa 1393). This is believed to be the first book written by a woman in the English language.  – CatholicView Staff

“If I like a girl that is a transvestite, is that
a sin?” - Amy

CatholicView Staff:

If I like a girl that is a transvestite, is that a sin? - Amy

Dear Amy:

What do you mean when you say “like”?  As a good friend or something more personal or sexual in nature?

Friendship is acceptable as long as it stays within the guidelines of friendship.   Jesus taught us to love all people.   If you are contemplating something more serious that this, say for instance, engaging in something physical (i.e. sexual), then this will be considered a sin. – CatholicView Staff

“I want to marry a divorced Methodist man.  Can
we get married in my Church?” - Paula

CatholicView Staff:

I am a never married Catholic who is marrying someone who was married in Methodist Church.  Can we get married in my Church? – Paula

Paula:

Yes, you can get married in the Catholic Church if you can first clear up a few details.  I am assuming your fiancé has divorced his first wife whom he married in the Methodist Church.  Since your fiancé has been married before, he is free to marry only if his spouse has died or he has obtained a declaration of nullity from the Church.  At present he is still considered married until he does so. He must apply for an annulment in your Church, as the fact of a legal divorce is not sufficient to prove the nullity of his previous marriage. Once the annulment process has been taken care of, you will be free to marry in the Church.

Please go and speak to your parish priest concerning this matter so you and your fiancé can get started with the annulment procedures.  Hope this helps.  – CatholicView Staff

“Is it possible to have 2 godmothers, one
Catholic and one Protestant?” Eleanor

CatholicView Staff:

Is it possible to have 2 godmothers, one Catholic and one Protestant? - Eleanor

Dear Eleanor:

The Catholic Church allots one Catholic godmother and one Catholic godfather under normal circumstances. 

Should you desire to have another godmother, that person can take the role of a Christian Witness, not a Godmother.  The Church feels it is beneficial to the child to have Catholic godparents in order to rear the child in their faith in case they are called on to take care of the godchild.

At any rate, speak to your parish priest about this.  He will be able to help you with this decision.  – CatholicView Staff

 
“Does a Protestant who converts have to be
re-baptized in the Catholic Church?” - Johan

CatholicView Staff:

If someone converts from Protestantism to the Roman Catholic Church, must he be re-baptized? - Johan

Johan:

No, one does not have to be re-baptized to become Catholic.  If a person has already been baptized with water in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the Catholic Church considers that a valid baptism and the person does not need to be baptized again.  You may be asked to bring your baptismal documentation. – CatholicView Staff

 
“Are there bible verses that state what the
rules are regarding pre-marital sex?" - Kim

CatholicView Staff:

Are there bible verses that state what the rules are regarding pre-marital sex?” - Kim

Dear Kim:

The function of sex is unitive and procreative, within the relationship of the male and the female coming together to form “one flesh.” When that relationship is breached, when sex occurs outside of marriage, either premarital or extramarital, we have the violation of the seventh commandment. And that is sin, a sin against God, against a fellow human, and against one’s own body.

There are many references concerning pre-marital sex.  Here are a few biblical verses where you can find mention of pre-marital sex:

Hebrews 13:4, 1 Corinthians 6:18-20, 1 Corinthians 10:8, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Ephesians 5:3, Revelation 21:8.  God bless you. - CatholicView Staff

“Is it possible for me to marry the sister of my
brother-in-law (the husband of my sister)?- Obi

CatholicView Staff:

Is it possible for me to marry the sister of my brother-in-law (the husband of my sister?)?  Obi

Dear Obi:

Yes, you can marry.  You are not bound by blood since your brother-in-law and his sister are not blood relatives.   There is no blood relationship here.  – CatholicView Staff

“Why believe in something that is not
provable?” - John

CatholicView Staff:

Why would someone believe strongly in something that is not scientifically provable? – John

Dear John:

We Christians believe through faith and the fact that God has put within us a soul which speaks truth to us if we listen.  Here is something written by Pope John Paul in 1985:

Proofs for God's existence are many and convergent - http://www.its.caltech.edu/~nmcenter/sci-cp/sci85071.html 

Pope John Paul II

General Audience of Wednesday, 10 July, 1985. This Papal catechesis on the subject of the existence of God was the second in a series, based on Psalm 18/19: 2-5:

1. When we ask ourselves "Why do we believe in God?", the first response is provided by our faith: God has revealed himself to humanity and has entered into contact with mankind. The supreme revelation of God has come to us through Jesus Christ, God incarnate. We believe in God because God has made himself known to us as the supreme Being, the great "Existent".

However, this faith in a God who reveals himself, also finds support in the reasoning of our intelligence.  When we reflect, we observe that there are not lacking proofs of God's existence. These have been elaborated by thinkers under the form of philosophical demonstrations in the sense of rigorously logical deductions. But they can also take on a simpler form and, as such. They are accessible to everyone who seeks to understand the meaning of the world around him.

Scientific proofs

2. In speaking of the existence of God we should underline that we are not speaking of proofs in the sense implied by the experimental sciences. Scientific proofs in the modern sense of the word are valid only for things perceptible to the senses since it is only on such things that scientific instruments of investigation can be used. To desire a scientific proof of God would be equivalent to lowering God to the level of the beings of our world, and we would therefore be mistaken methodologically in regard to what God is. Science must recognize its limits and its inability to reach the existence of God: it can neither affirm nor deny his existence.

From this, however, we must not draw the conclusion that scientists in their scientific studies are unable to find valid reasons for admitting the existence of God. If science as such cannot reach God, the scientist who has an intelligence the object of which is not limited to things of sense perception, can discover in the world reasons for affirming a Being which surpasses it. Many scientists have made and are making this discovery.

He who reflects with an open mind on what is implied in the existence of the universe, cannot help but pose the question of the problem of the origin. Instinctively, when we witness certain happenings, we ask ourselves what caused them. How can we not but ask the same question in regard to the sum total of beings and phenomena which we discover in the world?

A supreme Cause

3. A scientific hypothesis such as that of the expansion of the universe, makes the problem all the more clear. If the universe is in a state of continual expansion, should not one go back in time to that which could be called the "initial moment", the moment in which that expansion began? But, whatever the theory adopted concerning the origin of the universe, the most basic question cannot be avoided This universe in constant movement postulates a Cause which, in giving it being, has communicated to it this movement, and continues to sustain it. Without such a supreme Cause, the world and every movement in it would remain "unexplained" and "inexplicable", and our intelligence would not be satisfied. The human mind can receive a response to its questions only by admitting a Being who has created the world with all its dynamism. And who continues to maintain it in existence.

4. The necessity to go back to a supreme Cause is all the greater if one considers the perfect organization which science ceaselessly discovers in the structure of matter. When human intelligence is applied with so much effort to determine the constitution and modalities of action of material particles, is it not perhaps induced to seek their origin in a superior Intelligence which has conceived the whole? In face of the marvel of what can be called the immensely small world of the atom, and the immensely great world of the cosmos, the human mind feels itself completely surpassed in its possibilities of creation and even of imagination, and understands that a work of such quality and of such proportions demands a Creator whose wisdom is beyond all measures and whose power is infinite.

Impressive finality

5. All the observations concerning the development of life lead to a similar conclusion. The evolution of living beings, of which science seeks to determine the stages and to discern the mechanism, presents an internal finality which arouses admiration. This finality, which directs beings in a direction for which they are not responsible or in charge, obliges one to suppose a Mind, which is its inventor, its creator.

The history of humanity and the life of every human person manifest a still more impressive finality. Certainly, man cannot explain to himself the meaning of all that happens to him, and therefore, he must recognize that he is not the master of his own destiny. Not only has he not made himself, but he has not even the power to dominate his existence. However, he is convinced that he has a destiny and he seeks to discover how he received it and how it is inscribed in his being. In certain moments he can more easily discern a secret finality which appears from a convergence of circumstances and events. Thus he his brought to affirm the sovereignty of him who has created and directs his present life.

6. Finally, among the qualities of this world which impel us to raise out gaze aloft, there is beauty. It is manifested in the various marvels of nature; it is expressed in the numberless works of art, literature. music, painting and the plastic arts. It is appreciated also in moral conduct: there are so many good sentiments, so many stupendous deeds.

Man is aware or "receiving" all this beauty, even though he cooperates by his action in its manifestation. He discovers and admires it fully only when he recognizes its source, the transcendent beauty of God.

Faith stimulates.

7. To all these "indications" of the existence of God the Creator some oppose the power of chance or of the proper mechanisms of matter. To speak of chance for a universe which presents such a complex organization in its elements, and such a marvelous finality in its life would be equivalent to giving up the search for an explanation of the world as it appears to us. In fact, this would be equivalent to admitting effects without a cause. It would be an abdication of human intelligence which would thus refuse to think, to seek a solution for its problems.

In conclusion, a myriad of indications impels man, who tries to understand the universe in which he lives, to direct his gaze towards his Creator. The proofs for the existence of God are many and convergent. They contribute to show that faith does not humble human intelligence, but stimulates it to reflections and permits it to understand better all the "whys" posed by the observation of reality.

(Translation and subtitles from L'Osservatore Romano, July 15 1985.)

Hope this helps. – CatholicView Staff

“I once had an abortion.   Would God want me
to marry in the Church?”  - Crystal

CatholicView Staff:

I had an abortion and really regret it. I want to get married through church do you think its right for me to do that or do you think God won't want me to do it?- Crystal

Crystal:

I thank God that you realize the grave sin you committed in having an abortion. 

First things first, though.  Have you sought to ask God for forgiveness?  This is the most important thing you can do.  Have you been to confession at Church? 

God forgives all things if you humbly go and ask Him.  He waits for us to recognize the enormity of our sin and come to Him, in supplication and sorrow, for His forgiveness.   And you must promise never repeat that sin again. 

If you have taken these vital steps, then yes, absolutely you can get married in the Church.  Congratulations on your upcoming marriage.  May this be a new beginning for you and your fiancé.  God bless.  – CatholicView Staff

“I am Episcopalian, married twice, and my
Catholic boyfriend wants to marry in the Church. 
Is this possible?” - Erin

CatholicView Staff:
 

I am Episcopalian.  My fiancé is Catholic. He wants to marry in the church.  I have been married twice, with one child from the second marriage. First ended because of violence from husband, second due to husband's adultery. Can we marry in the Catholic Church? - Erin

Dear Erin:

Yes, you can get married in the Catholic Church.  But, you need to get annulments from the Church before you are able to do so. 

Because of the violence from your first husband, and adultery from the second, you have good reason to believe that both marriages qualify for annulments. 

I suggest that you and your fiancé go and speak to his parish priest.  Bring all paperwork pertaining to the marriages with you.  The priest will sort it all out and get you started on the annulment papers.  – CatholicView Staff

“Can I still marry in the Church if I move in
with my fiancé now?” - Mary

CatholicView Staff:

Can I still get married in a Catholic Church if I move in with my fiancé before we get married? We have been together for five years and are planning on getting married soon. We would like to live together. - Mary

Mary:

1Corinthians 7:2 reads,  “Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.” And then in Verse 7:9 it tells, “But if they cannot contain (themselves), let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn”.  Why live in a state of sin? 

You do not give a reason for this delay in your marriage.  To live with your fiancé in a sin called fornication.   Because it is a grave, you will not be able to participate in the Holy Eucharist.  But I think you know all this already.

Please rethink your idea of living with your fiancé.   Set up an appointment to talk to your priest. – CatholicView Staff

 
“I disagree with Church teachings.  How far can I stray
before I am no longer Catholic?” – Seth

CatholicView Staff:

I find that I disagree with church teachings often and I often end up agreeing with more liberal protestant churches, especially Anglican/Episcopalian.  How far can I stray from church teachings before the church stops thinking of me as a Catholic? – Seth

Seth:

It is up to you whether you want to leave the Catholic Church.   The choice is yours.  The Church does not hold anyone in bondage and you are free to follow your heart. 

May you find the peace you seek.  God bless you and strengthen your faith in Him.  – CatholicView Staff

“The Minister of the Eucharist mistakenly gave me
a wafer at mass. I am unbaptized.  What
do I do with the wafer?”- Bob

CatholicView Staff:

My wife and I were married in a Catholic Church 45 years ago. Since then we have attended mass each
Sunday.  Our daughters are baptized and attend Mass. We now have two grandchildren.  Both are baptized

Both our baptized and one just started school at a different parish than the one we attend.  As noted above
I have not been baptized even though I have attended the classes to do so.  I would prefer to postpone
discussion of this situation for another time.  Here is my question:  We attended Easter Mass at my
daughter’s parish with her children. I have never taken communion for obvious reasons. When it came
time to go to communion, my granddaughter ( not knowing that I am not a baptized Catholic) asked me
to come with her so I did. When I reversed my hands the Eucharistic Priest placed the wafer on the back of
my hands and I said “Amen”.  Rather then hand it back I put it in my pocket.  What is the proper way to
dispose of it?  - Bob

Bob:

Thank you for inquiring about the disposal of a blessed communion host (wafer) that you received in error.  One way is to place it into a glass of water and leave it to soften in a safe place.  Once the wafer has softened and dissolved, pour the contents of the glass into a live plant or in your garden.   

Might I suggest in the future that when you join the communion line for a blessing to cross your arms with your hands against your chest in an “X” position.  This denotes you only want a blessing and it helps you to avoid confusion in the future.

God bless you.  - CatholicView Staff

“How should we keep the Lord’s Day Holy?”
- Claudia

CatholicView Staff: 

In accordance with the commandments, how should we as Catholics keep the Lord's Day Holy?

Claudia:

The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. We should keep the Sabbath holy unto the Creator who made it for us.

In simple terms read Exodus 20:10 which tells us, “ Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.  You have six days each week for your ordinary work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath day of rest dedicated to the Lord your God. On that day no one in your household should do any unnecessary work. This includes your family and all who are living in your household”.

The purpose of the Sabbath is to rest from physical labor and to worship God.  It is a day when our earthly bodies can slow our pace and concentrate on things holy.  God has set the Sabbath apart from the week for this purpose.  We are asked to forget our daily routine and draw closer to God by attending mass and in prayer.   When we keep the this day holy, we show faith and belief in God's promise to us that someday we will enjoy an eternal rest in heaven. 

There are those who must earn a living by working on Sunday.  God understands this.  If possible, they should make time and try to find a few minutes to read the bible and pray on that day, thanking God for all He has done for them.  Hope this helps.  – CatholicView Staff

“How can a loving God allow roadside bombings
and earthquakes that kill thousands?” - Mark

CatholicView Staff:

I have lost faith. How can an all-loving God allow such things as roadside bombings and earthquakes that kill thousands? - Mark

Mark:

Know that this world is filled with evil and sin.  So much so that many times terrible things happen to people who are good and faithful.  Why He allows so much strife and heartbreak, we humans cannot understand.  One day we will when we stand in front of the Lord, all will be made clear to us. 

Might I suggest that you read some of CatholicView’s articles on this subject?  Here are two links that may shed some light: GOD THE CREATOR vs. MYSTERY OF EVIL and LOSING YOUR FAITH? 

Hope this helps a bit.  – CatholicView Staff   

 
“Are Catholics required to renew their Baptismal
Vows on Easter Sunday?” – Mike

CatholicView Staff:

Mike:

The Baptismal Vows are renewed in all Catholic Churches around the world on Easter Sunday.   This should be the highlight for us because we get the opportunity to share with other Catholics, as a family, the promises of our Christian faith.

Here are the six questions the celebrating priest asks on Easter Sunday, along with our responses:

Celebrant: Do you reject Satan?

Response: I do.

Celebrant: And all his works?

Response: I do.

Celebrant: And all his empty promises?

Response: I do.

Celebrant: Do you believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth?

Response: I do.

Celebrant: Do you believe in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, Who was born of the Virgin Mary, was crucified, died, and was buried, rose from the dead, and is now seated at the right hand of the Father?

Response: I do.

Celebrant: Do you believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting?

Response: I do.

2 Corinthians 5:15 reads: “He died for everyone so that those who receive His new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, Who died and was raised for them.”  And so, on Easter we make a new and total commitment to give our lives to God, through the death and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ.  This renewal is welcomed and voiced by all Christians as a recommitment once again of the most important decision any human being can make. - CatholicView Staff

“I am a non-practicing Catholic.  I know it is
wrong but I am planning to use a sperm
donor.  Will I be able to participate in
mass?” - Jennifer

CatholicView Staff:

I am Catholic and my husband is Christian.  I have been non-practicing for about a year. We have been struggling with infertility for almost 10 years.   We have used IVF to attempt to start a family, but that has failed.  We plan to use a sperm donor to make our dreams of parenthood a reality.  We are well aware of the views of the church on assisted reproduction.  In the event that we do have a baby, we would like to raise the child as Catholic.  I think that the Catholic Church would welcome a baby and would have no reservations about baptizing this child.  I'm just not sure if I would be able to confess and be able to participate in mass again.  I am also considering (reluctantly) a different religion which would welcome my entire family.  Any insight?   Thank you, Jennifer

Jennifer:

Thank you for your letter.  Let me correct you: You are a Christian if you believe in Christ.  The word Christian comes from the name Christ.  Catholics are Christian believers.

You are correct in that the Catholic Church does not sanction IVF or any assisted reproductive methods.  Because it is not clear what you are planning, I would suggest that you go to see a parish priest and explain what it is exactly you want to do.  Have you considered giving a needy baby a loving home and parents through adoption?  There are so many beautiful children who need parents just like you and your husband.

But it is the state of your soul I am concerned about.  There is no reason outside of the assisted reproduction issue for you to avoid mass.   Go talk to your priest and go to confession.    Straighten everything out so when God blesses you with a child, you will be able to share in the Sacraments with your daughter or son.  I will pray for you.  – CatholicView Staff

“Is it permissible to ‘bend the rules’ a little
during a fast?” Chris

CatholicView Staff:

Even during lent, if there is a special occasion on a Friday is it okay to bend the rules on snacking and maybe even eating a small amount of meat? I'm not talking gluttony.  It would seem that God would be forgiving. - Chris

Dear Chris:

To pre-think a sinful action such as eating even a small amount of meat when it is forbidden, and knowing what Good Friday represents, would be sinful.
 

If there is a special event where dinner is served and it is meat, try to avoid eating it unless it would bring dishonor to the hosts.  Do not call attention to yourself.  If this is not possible to not partake of meat, you are allowed a very small portion of it.  Remember that one full meal and two small snacks is allowable on Good Friday, so if you are having a full meal on this occasion, then you can have two small snacks at home.

Jesus Christ, the Son of God, gave His life for your salvation.  This is a special day to honor Him for His gift of eternal life.  Unless you have a good reason, such as ill health, etc, you must observe the fast.   CatholicView Staff

“I smoke cigarettes.  Is this considered suicide
in the eyes of the Lord?” - Dylan

CatholicView Staff:

I smoke cigarettes out of curiosity.  I know cigarettes are bad for me, I know they can cause lung cancer and death. And yet I still smoke.    If I died of lung cancer, or a disease related to smoking cigarettes, would it be considered suicide in the eyes of the Lord?    As I do know it will kill me, but I choose to do it anyways. - Dylan

Dear Dylan:

Thank you for your question.  So many people do things to excess such as drinking, doing drugs, and yes, smoking cigarettes.  Here is one biblical reference that may answer your question: 1 Corinthians 6:19 tells us,  ”Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, Who lives in you and was given to you by God?  You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price.  So you must honor God with your body.

What does this tell you, Dylan?

God has asked us to take care of our bodies, always knowing that it is a temple for the soul.  Your body is given to you for safekeeping, not for purposely destroying it.  If you know a habit is destructive to you, give it up.