MARCH 2011
 ASK A PRIEST
 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS




FATHER WILLIAM G. MENZEL
FATHER KEVIN BATES, SM
CATHOLICVIEW STAFF
____________________________________________
FATHER KEVIN BATES, SM
 "My priest friend is struggling with his faith.  How can I help him?" - Steve 

Father Kevin:

I've got a priest friend (he has no real friends ), who seems to be increasingly emotionally needy.  He is struggling with his faith (or at least Rome) and comes across very angry.  I think I know his real issues which, as yet, he will not share with me. (Not sure I want to know).  He is emotionally draining.  However, considering love (agape), not sure what to do. – Steve

 

Hello Steve: 

Reading between your lines, your friend’s issues are not really about Church or faith as such.   Rome is easy to handle if we don’t take it all too seriously and engage with the issues it throws us as adults.  A good example at the moment is the up-coming changes to the text of the Liturgy.   We’ll get over it all with wisdom, good foot-work and hopefully come out of it with an enhanced love of the Eucharist. 

Questions of faith are another matter.  They are more personal and we wrestle with them all our lives.  They can bring us down if we let them and they can be the occasions of great growth and deepening of our faith if we choose to engage with the questions honestly and patiently.

For other deeper issues you seem to be sensing in your friend, sometimes all we can do is wait, perhaps pose a leading question when time seems right, or share something form your own heart story if that seems apt.  Prayer is also a good idea!  We pray, entrusting those we love to God’s purpose and timing. 

Every blessing as you look out for your friend who seems to have few friends of his own.  -  Father Kevin

 


 "Does the title "Catholic Christian" denote trying to appease
Protestants?" - Brian

 

Dear Father Kevin:

There's an expression that's been gaining ground rapidly in Church circles, viz., "Catholic Christian".  As is obvious, the noun Catholic has been demoted to the rank of an adjective.  The term infers that there are all kinds of Christians, on the same shelf so to speak.  A "Catholic" Christian happens to be one of them.  I believe the term was coined to appease the Protestants.  The tacit message in the expression is, "Please don't hurt me."  Do you agree or disagree?  Thank you.  - Brian

 

Hi Brian:

I’m a Catholic, and so I gather are you.  I’m also a Christian, something some of our more evangelical brothers and sisters don’t seem to realize.   I’m also Australian, a man, a Marist and a priest. None of these identifiers are in competition with each other.  They simply are.  The fact that I’m a Catholic is something I am unapologetically.

When we try to half-apologize for our family of faith, we are selling ourselves and that family of faith short.  When we try to compete with other faith communities for spiritual, theological or corporate superiority, we are having ourselves on and denying the gospel.  There’s nothing  in Jesus’ teaching or behaviours that encourages us to be in competition with each other.  Such competition, in which our Church and all the others have engaged from time to time, is a scandal and represents a gross misunderstanding of the gospel and our Catholic Tradition. 

We have no call to apologise for who we are and no call to lord it over others either.

So my response is, YES I agree with you.  It sounds like religion for dummies when we behave like that.  Good wishes.  - Father Kevin




 "The obstacles in my life are too much for my faith to endure. 
Is it His will for others to suffer?" - Jon

 

Father Kevin:

People often tell me 1 Corinthians 10:13 (King James Version) "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it."  I have lost my faith.  The obstacles in my life were to much for my faith to endure.  Did God make a mistake?  I fought to hold on to it, but to no avail.  Each day I get further and further from it.  Which makes me sad.  I envy those who have blind faith.  If there is a God, how does he exist knowing his action or inactions allow others to suffer.  "Oh it's God's will" people say.  Really, His will is for others to suffer?  What a terrible argument.

I almost don't want Him to exist.  If He didn't I wouldn't have someone to blame. But if He does, He has taken so much from me, never answered my prayers, and allowed me to become consumed by despair and hate.  Is there a way to regain what I have lost? – Jon

 

 

Dear Jon:

Thanks for your question.  God is the ultimate unknowable.  In Jesus we received the best glimpse we could get using our human understanding.  Then through grace we have learnt to engage with this God of ultimate mystery who is at once beyond all our reckon, and more intimate to us than we can imagine.  Our faith is an exploration, a love affair, a deepening relationship, otherwise it is nothing at all.  It is not a faith that provides glib easy answers to life’s big questions.  It is not a faith that requires the sort of blind following that you refer to.  Rather it is a faith in which we agonise, delight, step back from, question, explore, doubt, wrestle with.  Listen to the disciples in the gospel.  They didn’t get Jesus’ message even at the end.

The great saints are much the same.  They all had their doubts, their dark times and their pain.  Sometimes many of them would have preferred God not to exist, it would seem easier at times!

God is not  an answering service who will give me what I want.  God is the one to Whom we surrender in trust. God is the one Who calls us to be exactly how and who we are, not more than human and certainly not less than human.  God waits for our growing and our homecoming with great anticipation.   Psalm 46 invites us to “Be Still and Know that I am God.”   Moments of quiet waiting now and then might do the trick rather than anxious worrying or angry unhappiness.  Let God listen to the cry of your heart when no one else is listening.

I will keep you in my prayers and hope you find something of the peace your heart longs for.  - Father Kevin





 FATHER WILLIAM G. MENZEL



"My life has gone for a toss.   Please guide me if my plans to become
a priest is justified?" - Arian

Father Bill:

I am from India.  Age 25 years. Bachelor of Science in Information Technology.  My life has gone for a toss.  I don’t like my job and wish to quit it. At work, things are neither going right nor as planned for me. I had a girlfriend but few weeks back had to break up with her as her family was not convinced to accept me.  I never had sexual relationship with my girlfriend.  As of now, personally & professionally, I am very much disturbed and lost.  Initially, I used to get thoughts of suicide, but told myself thinking that would hurt my mother a lot.  I am assured that I will not marry and also IT is not the field for me.  I am looking for a big change in my life with some peace of mind.  Few days back, I have started getting thoughts that I could become a priest which would solve my personal and professional issues both, allow me to spread the word of God, help the needy and that would also remove my thoughts of suicide.  Please guide if my plans to become a priest is justified and also would I be eligible to become a priest. - Arian

 

Dear Arian,

When you say you are “from India”, it is not clear to me whether you are from India and now living in the United States, or whether you are actually living in India.   I’m assuming that you are living in India, and if that’s the case, there may be some cultural and religious differences that I might not perceive or understand.  Please read my answer with that in mind.

It’s safe to say that none of us can ever be sure just how the grace of God might work in our lives.  Perhaps God is using these circumstances in your life to encourage you to discern whether you are called to be a priest.  I think it will be important for you to talk with a priest in your parish or with a vocation director, as I think they will be able to help you with this much more than I can. From the information you give in your question, I think you are eligible to become a priest, assuming that you are a baptized and confirmed Catholic.   However, that may not be the right thing to do just yet.

Please keep in mind some important considerations as you prayerfully consider the possibility that God may be calling you to the priesthood.  One of the most important things to note is that the priesthood is not an escape from unhappy circumstances.  I am somewhat concerned that you may be experiencing what we in the United States call the “rebound effect”.  This often happens when one experiences a significant trauma or disappointment and ends up doing something that he would otherwise never do.  To choose the priesthood as a way of solving personal and professional issues would be an example of the rebound effect.  As I already mentioned, circumstances like this might lead a person to consider becoming a priest, but the priesthood should ultimately be chosen on its own merits, not as a way of solving problems.

I think that only prayer and some good spiritual direction can help you sort out all that is going on in your life at this time.  Please be patient, and do not lose hope.  If you stay close to God, He will guide you and help you to know how you can find meaning and joy in your life.

I will keep you in my prayers and ask others who may read your question and my answer to also pray for you. - Father Bill




"I'm a Catholic in a Church of Ireland mixed marriage, that was never
accepted by my parents.   How can I change hearts and minds?"
 - Eamonn

 

Father Bill:

I'm a Catholic in a Church of Ireland mixed marriage, that was never accepted by my parents. My wife is incredibility supportive and has always encouraged me to continue to visit my home place which I do so.  For years now, the whole "situation" has never been discussed.  I feel ashamed for letting this happen. I sense my parent's regret.  I want to tell my parents that I forgive them. I look at our own children and as my parents are getting older, I feel a sense of increased responsibility to help bring change.  Recently I had a dream in which I was told that my wife is my sunshine and that God is my light and that I needed both.  I think God is guiding me.  I know my own light for life could be stronger.  Where there is light, there is hope.  How can I change hearts and minds? -  Eamonn

 

Dear Eamonn,

Unless I’m not understanding something in your question, it seems that this situation could be resolved with a good heart-to-heart talk with your parents.  If you and your wife received the proper permissions from the Catholic Church for your marriage, and if you remain in good standing with the Church, it seems that there really is nothing standing between you and your parents.  Nothing except years of silence, that is.

I would suggest that you pray for God’s guidance as to how best to approach your parents, talk the situation over with your wife, and then go have that talk with your folks.  Let them know how much you love them and how much you love your wife and children.  Let them know how you have longed to have them accept your wife, especially since she has been such a blessing in your own life.  Let them know that your family needs them for the love and wisdom they have to share.  Ask your parents to forgive any hurt you have caused them, and let them know that you forgive them.

It seems to me that if you proceed in a loving, patient way, you will succeed in changing minds and hearts.

May God bless you and your family. - Father Bill

 


"If God is perfect, how come He made a mistake?" - Yuval 

Father Bill:

If God is perfect how come He "did a mistake" and decided to create a new book with the help of Jesus ?   Under Jewish law there were 613 rules to follow given to Moses.   When Jesus came along He changed and got rid of some rules to follow?  I am just confused because why would Jesus not listen to the original rules and God's first words?  If God is all knowing then why would the rules ever need to be changed?  Thank you. - Yuvah 

 
       

Dear Yuvah,

The “if God is perfect” scenario can play out in so many ways.  One could ask, “If God is perfect, why isn’t all of the universe perfect?  Why aren’t we perfect?  Why did he create mosquitoes, germs, … (just fill in any of your least favorite creatures)?  Why does the earth shake and tremble?  Why are there tsunamis?”  Need I go on?  We either assume that God’s perfection does not necessarily carry over into his creation, or we assume that God is not perfect.  I presume that both of us would rule out the latter assumption; therefore, we must accept the former—that God is perfect and that his perfection does not necessarily carry over into his creation.

The rules of the Jewish law are part of God’s creation, thus, like all of creation, they can change.  They have nothing really to do with God’s perfection.  They have a lot more to do with human imperfection. It seems a stretch to assume that the rules of the Mosaic Law are so perfect that they never could be changed.  Nothing on this earth is that perfect.  In fact, I just took a look at a list of the 613 rules.  Some of them are wise and righteous, but some of them are totally irrelevant to Jewish life today.

We Christians believe that Jesus saw clearly the shortcomings of the Mosaic Law.  He knew that people needed to treasure what was good in those rules, but he also saw that many of the religious leaders of his time were overzealous in applying the rules to the lives of people.  Instead of being a way to God, the Law had almost become a god in itself.  Since according to Christian belief Jesus is the Son of God, fully human and fully divine, He could speak and act with divine authority.  If anyone can change a law established by God, Jesus can.

In Jesus we have a New Covenant.  This preserves the treasures of the First Covenant, such as the Ten Commandments, but it frees believers from the burdens of the Mosaic Law.  For us Jesus is the New Moses, and, in fact, the New Law.  We are to conform our lives to him.

God bless you, Yuvah, and thanks for your question. - Father Bill




 CATHOLICVIEW STAFF



"Could you tell me where I can find the quote "When I was a child... etc.
and when I was a young man...etc.? - Al
 

CatholicView Staff:

While at a wake, the priest read something that moved me that was not from the bible.   It went when I was a child etc.  etc. and I loved, when I was a young man etc., etc, and I loved etc., etc..  I know it's not much to go on but I think it was from St. John the Evangelist.  It was not from the bible.   Could you tell me the quote and where it came from? - Al


Al:

There is a quote that does come from the bible similar to the one you write about.  Are you referring to a passage in 1 Corinthians, "When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child. But, when I became a man, I put away the things of a child." - 1 Corinthians 13:11 found in the Douay-Rheims 1899 American Edition?  Hope this helps. -  CatholicView Staff


"The priest at my parish invited all Catholics and Orthodox to receive Communion.  
Was I mistaken in believing this was forbidden?"  - Jacob

 CatholicView Staff:

At an Ash Wednesday Mass last week the priest at my parish invited all Catholics and Orthodox to receive Communion, was I mistaken in believing this was forbidden?  If not, what has changed between the Churches to permit this?  And can Catholics receive Communion at Orthodox Churches?  - Jacob

 

Jacob:

According to Catholic Answers (http://forums.catholic.com/showthread.php?t=205046)  "Members of the Orthodox churches, the Assyrian Church of the East, and the Polish National Catholic Church are urged to respect the discipline of their own churches. According to Roman Catholic discipline, the Code of Canon Law does not object to the reception of Communion by Christians of these churches (canon 844 § 3). 

Basically, this means that the Catholic Church does not object to reception of Catholic Communion by Eastern Orthodox Christians, but urges those Christians to respect their own church's sacramental discipline. To the best of my knowledge, Orthodox churches ordinarily strongly object to their members receiving Communion in a Catholic church. For example:

Q: As a Greek Orthodox may I receive the sacrament of Holy Communion in a Catholic Church? Do you know the rules regarding Greek Orthodox and Catholic relations? I live in an area where the closest church is a Roman Catholic Church. Does the Catholic Church recognize us as equals?
A. Orthodox Christians are not permitted to receive Communion in non-Orthodox communities, including the Roman Catholic. To do so would imply a unity that in fact does not yet exist. Also it implies that we are "united" to the faith community from which we receive the Eucharist.

In brief, while Roman Catholicism sees Orthodoxy as a "sister church," Orthodoxy sees herself as the fullness of the Church, not the "other half" of the Church, as implied in the notion of a "sister church" (source).

In short, if your friend considers herself an Eastern Orthodox Christian, she should respect the sacramental discipline of her own church. If she wishes to receive Communion in a Catholic church, she should seriously consider entering the Catholic Church, perhaps through one of its Eastern Catholic Churches.

Hope the above helps.  - CatholicView Staff




"Can two Catholics marry if they are of a different race?"  - Bartholomew

 

CatholicView Staff:

Can a couple get married if they both are Catholic but are of a different race? - Bartholomew

 

Bartholomew:

Absolutely you can get married.  The Church does not distinguish according  to race. We are all the same.  - CatholicView Staff

 


"How can I pray to God asking Him to keep me from sexual temptation?" - Mary

 

CatholicView Staff:

All my adult life I have struggled with sexual temptations and have recently found the temptations impossible to resist.  The more I have prayed for them to go away, the stronger they become.

I want to remain a virgin until my wedding day, but I am really struggling the older I get.  Is there any way at all in which I can overcome these temptations such as a prayer which specifically protects against sexual temptation as I am really scared that I am going to give in to temptation? - Mary

 

Mary:

CatholicView applauds you for consistently remaining pure until you are married.  There is no required prayer to keep you this way until your wedding day.  I might add that God already knows that you want to live as He has asked you to do.  I would suggest that you pray, asking the Lord to strengthen you in your weakness.  Use a simple prayer when you become weak such as the following:

" Help me, Lord, to avoid Satan's temptation when I am weak.  Let me remember always that you said, "My grace is sufficient for you,
for power is made perfect in weakness."  I will hold this to my heart when I am tempted. I ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ.  Amen."

Or you can just say,

"Please strengthen me against this sin, dear heavenly Father.  Send you Holy Spirit to me and save me from temptation.  I ask this through Your Precious Son, Jesus Christ.  Amen!"

Mary, you are a strong woman.  Know that the Lord is well pleased with you.  Even now as Satan tries to bring you into sin, He will remain there, sending His Holy Spirit to strengthen you in your weakness.  You want to do the right thing and God will help you.  May the Lord always be with you. - CatholicView Staff




"My husband drinks and is abusive.  Will God forgive me if I leave him?" - Elizabeth

 

CatholicView Staff:

My husband's friends are causing problems between us.  They are all alcoholics and foul mouthed and womanizers.  I am 60 yrs old in poor health and feel hopeless.  He goes out without me all the time and gets violent when I say anything.  There is no talking to him.  Will God forgive me if I leave him? -  Elizabeth

 

Elizabeth:

I am so sorry to hear you are being badly treated by your husband.  Certainly you must see a priest  and talk to him in depth about your husband's behavior.  If he is violent, you cannot stay with him as this may be dangerous for you. 

Do you have grown children you can confide in and who will take you into their homes until you can straighten out this situation? 

I must suggest that you talk to your parish priest.  Tell him all that is happening between you and your husband.  Let him help you make a decision about your marriage.  Please pray and ask the Lord to give you strength during this difficult time.  I will pray for you. - CatholicView Staff




"Is it a sin to date a divorced man even if he is trying to get an annulment?"  - Monique 

 

CatholicView Staff:

Is it a sin to date a divorced man even if he is trying to get an annulment?   I can't get to know him because it would be a scandal if people knew I was seeing him and even if his marriage was annulled I feel like my family would never accept it.  Thanks God bless. - Monique

 

Monique:

Thanks for your question. 

Until your friend gets his annulment, remember, he is still married in the eyes of the Church.   Once he receives his annulment he will be free to date.

It is natural that families are concerned when a family member begins to date a divorced person.  In time, they will get to know this man and perhaps change their perspective once they see that all is well with the relationship.  God bless.  - CatholicView Staff




"Is it a sin to attend the wedding of my niece in another church? 
She is not a practicing Catholic.  - Lisa

 

CatholicView Staff:

Is it a sin to go to a wedding of my niece since she was raised Catholic but is not getting married in the Church and does not practice the faith.  If I don't go my sister will be hurt and furious, she is non practicing herself.  Thank you! - Lisa

 

Lisa:

By all means go to your niece's wedding.  She is family and this is a very special day.  Perhaps because of you love and caring in doing this, she may someday see her way back to the Church.  Thank you for writing in.  - CatholicView Staff




"I have rid myself of the divination cards of my past.  Is it okay if I keep
my dream dictionary? - Diane

 

CatholicView Staff:

Since I know for a fact that divination is frowned on, I have asked God's forgiveness and got rid of my cards.  However, I still have a dream dictionary to understand my dreams.  Is this different since I don't go get the dreams but they come to me?  Or do I get rid of that too?  - Diane

 

Diane:

I would advise that you get rid of anything that is remotely connected to divination, especially since you are still vulnerable to ways and things of your past.  According to the Catechism of the Church, "All forms of divination are to be rejected:  They contradict the honor, respect, and loving fear that we owe to God alone" 

Of course we all wonder exactly why we dream certain things and we all try to interpret what it might mean.  It is human to wonder but we do not use dictionaries for that interpretation.  In your case where you are trying to do all the right things, I suggest you leave such things as dream dictionaries alone and move forward in your faith.  God bless you for trying to live a Christian life, and depending on the Lord to take care of your future. - CatholicView Staff




"What should we do if someone keeps wronging you? - Duncan

 

CatholicView Staff:

I would like to know about the terms of forgiving someone and forgetting their past mistakes. For example, assume someone did something to wrong you once, we should forgive him and forget, then he does a similar wrong to us again, we forgive and forget again, and this person does it the third time, we forgive him for his wrongs but is it a sin if we don't forget what he had done and not allow him to do it again ? - Duncan

 

Duncan:

Forgiving someone over and over is something that Christ addresses in His Scripture in Matthew 18: 22.  He tells us to forgive not once, but seventy times seven.  It is a difficult thing to do.  When we  commit sins over and over again, this is what the Lord does: forgives us seventy times seven.  Here is a link to one of CatholicView articles on forgiveness:  SEVENTY TIMES SEVEN

Does God ask us to forget after it is repeatedly done to us and we have forgiven the person?  No, but try to avoid being in the same situation because as humans we find it difficult to forget the hurts others inflict.  Do not allow the person who tries to wrong you to repeat the action time after time.  Keep away from him so that he might learn that others will not tolerate his behavior and that he must learn to respect them as he4 expects to be respected.  Let him learn that he is being intolerant.  God does not want us to be doormats, but He does want us to forgive as He has forgiven us.  Hope this helps. -   CatholicView Staff   

 


"I am going on a cruise and cannot attend Sunday Mass. 
What should I do?" - Monica

CatholicView Staff:

My mother-in-law has scheduled a cruise to celebrate their 55th wedding anniversary and her husband's 80th birthday.  Everyone is going on this cruise, which leaves on a Saturday at 4.  My problem is we will be missing Sunday Mass and need if going to Sat am Mass will help. I'm saddened we will not be at Mass on Sunday, but I didn't schedule the trip.  Thank you. - Monica

 

Monica:

Sometimes we find ourselves in a position that makes attending mass unavoidable.  In a case such as yours, I suggest you take an hour and read the scriptures.  Take part of that hour to pray about the safety of your cruise, the family and all things you want to say to God, the Father.  Feel the peace that He gives to you when you spend this quality time with Him.  May the Lord be with you.  Enjoy your cruise! - CatholicView Staff

 


"Will a priest hear my confession even though I am not Catholic?" - Ernie

 

CatholicView Staff:

I feel the need to talk to someone about sin in my life-will a priest hear my confession even though I am not Catholic? - Erni

Ernie:

You can make an appointment with a priest to discuss your sins.  Call a parish nearest to you for an appointment.   You can speak to the priest about personal troubles as well, but as a non-Catholic you cannot receive absolution.  You must receive baptism before receiving the Sacrament of Confession.  - CatholicView Staff




"How wrong is it to receive communion without ever being a Catechumen?
 I was baptized as a baby but not raised in the faith?" - Laurie

 

CatholicView Staff:

How wrong is it to receive communion without having ever been a Catechumen?  I was baptized as a baby but not raised "in the faith".   I have been attending Mass and reading the Bible for two years now.   I have never been to confession but would go beforehand.  The reason for not going through catechism yet is that I am still fearful to be coerced into anything.  This has been quite a dilemma for me over the past months but now I am pondering this new option.  If this is the same as lying or stealing then it will wait, but I would love to do it now that I feel ready.  Somebody once told me that taking the Eucharist without having been a catechumen was forbidden by the Church, but that in the end it was "between God and me" ?  Thank you for your guidance. - Laurie

 

Laurie:

There are several points here that needs to be addressed.  You were baptized in the Catholic Faith but you have not practiced it for many years nor attended Church.  You need to speak to a parish priest, set up a time to discuss what is happening.  It is a simple matter.  The priest may ask you to attend R.C.I.A. (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) to study the faith.  This program is designed for those who are new to the faith and those who have not  been to church for many years.  Your parish priest will discuss this with you.   Do not be afraid.  This is not a complicated issue but one that will free you to accept all the Sacraments of the Church.  God bless you. 

The Church welcomes you back.  May the Lord take care of you as you make your way home to the Church.   - CatholicView Staff




"Can a non Catholic be a lector at any mass other than a funeral
or wedding mass?" -  Anna

 

CatholicView Staff:

Can a non Catholic be a lector at any mass other than a funeral or wedding mass?-  Ana

Ana:

Being a lector is something that only a baptized Catholic in full communion with the Church can do.  - Anna




"Is masturbation a sin?" - David

 

CatholicView Staff:

Is masturbating a sin?  In the Internet I see people that say its natural and sometimes I see people that say it is a sin. Help.

David:

 

I refer you to an article on masturbation that was published in CatholicView.  In part it reads: Masturbation is ALWAYS a sinful act, contrary to God’s ideal law concerning how human beings should live as Christians. There is no excuse or deceiving one’s self in thinking that masturbation is acceptable under certain circumstances or that it is not sinful because “everyone does it.”  Here is the link for the complete article:  masturbation May2007.  God bless. - CatholicView Staff




"My boyfriend is a widower with three children, one disabled .  He wants to wait
for marriage but expects a sexual relationship.  Please help.
- MaryAnn

 

CatholicView Staff:

I am 44, never married, and attend mass every week, but often feel very alone, having lost both my parents and having no children of my own.  I am seeing someone who is a widow for ten years, married in the church.  He was left with three young children, one severely disabled.  He does not want to marry again for a few years due to the ages of the children (now teenagers) and their circumstances, but we love each other very much.  I have had sex with him.  I know this is wrong in the eyes of the church, but he doesn't think its wrong.  I want to marry him because I love him, but I don't want to be in mortal sin.   I don't want to do anything that might upset his children, as I know parents remarrying can be difficult, especially at that age.  I can't see a way out of the situation.  I think the church telling us to be celibate in this situation is very hard and I suffer tremendously,  worrying about it.  I feel I can't go to confession as I know it will happen again.  Please help.

MaryAnn:

I sympathize with you because I know being alone is a terrible thing.  And yes, I know, being the good and beautiful person you are, you do not want to upset this man's children.  But you must choose to do the right thing.  To live in sin or to marry?  To displease God or your boyfriend?  This man is not willing to make a commitment.  Certainly his children know what both of you are engaging in.  God sees your actions and you already know this is wrong. 

You certainly sound like a loving woman who would be willing to be a good mother to these children, loving them and caring for them as a family. 

What are you thinking?  Your boyfriend's advice to wait for marriage should come with total abstinence.  He does not make the rules that God writes for us.   He has his children and now he has you without any commitment.  You are a nice, loving person but should you die in this sin you die in mortal sin.  Is this worth it?

Please reconsider what this relationship entails: You have given all and understood all and got nothing in exchange.  He has taken and has said what he has taken is not a sin even though he should know better.  I suggest you pray hard about this.  You are willing to be a mother to his kids if he should commit to marriage.  

Do not jeopardize yourself by sinning and perhaps losing your soul.  - CatholicView Staff




"Can anyone, regardless of religion, be able to go to heaven if they believe
and follow Jesus Christ?" -  Jane

 

CatholicView Staff:

My husband was told by his father many years ago that only Catholics will go to heaven and he still believes that.  Our grandson is Lutheran and he said he will not go to heaven, which is very upsetting to me.  Please tell me anyone, regardless of religion, is able to go to heaven (assuming they deserve to).  Thanks. - Jane

 

Jane:

Years ago, the Church used to teach the concept that only Catholics would go to heaven.  After much study, the Church states this is no longer true.  All and anyone who believes that Jesus is their Savior and follows His teachings WILL go to heaven.  No doubt.  When we stand before the Lord at judgment, He will not ask what church we attended.  He will ask if we followed His teachings and believed, through faith, that He is the one Who makes us worthy of entering His Father's perfect heaven.  All who believe and accept Jesus Christ WILL BE saved.  Faith is not exclusive to only Catholics.  God bless you, Jane, for your beautiful insight in God's word.  - CatholicView Staff

 


"My granddaughter wears a rosary as costume jewelry.  Can I ask her not to
wear it in my presence?" - Anna

 

CatholicView Staff:

My granddaughter, who now lives with us, has taken to wearing a rosary around her neck. It is handmade from a boy - at her old school that is Catholic.  It disturbs me greatly since she is not Catholic, she has no religion, she shows no interest in learning about the rosary and specifically wears it as jewelry.  I feel it is degrading the rosary and the Catholic faith.  It is bothering me more every day.  I don't know if I am right in asking her to not do it around me. I need guidance. - Anna

 

Dear Anna:

A rosary is a man-made object.  It is how one uses it through prayer that makes it special and holy, but your granddaughter may not realize the significance of the rosary that has been blessed and used for this purpose.

I suggest you talk to her and tell her nicely how you feel about her wearing something in your presence meant for prayers and believing Catholics.  Be kind about it.  If she can understand how you feel, she might be able to refrain from wearing it, especially in your presence.

In the meantime pray for her, and remember the rosary has no real meaning without faith.  For her, it is just a decoration.  God bless you.  - CatholicView Staff




"I do not believe in God.  Should I attend mass with my Catholic
boyfriend?"  - Katy

CatholicView staff:

My Catholic boyfriend wants me to attend Mass with him, but I am not only not Catholic, I do not believe in God.  I would like to know the Catholic Church's feelings toward me attending Mass.  Thank you!

 

Katy:

Thank you for your question.  All are welcome in the Catholic Church, and it is wonderful that you want to attend our Church.  This is good.  However, I feel saddened that you do not believe in God. 

Again, you are always welcome in our Church.  - CatholicView Staff




"I helped my sister and family financially a while back.  Should I
ask them to repay me?" - Maricel

 

CatholicView Staff:

If your sister & her family come to you with no financial capacities at that time, is it right to give them food, shelter, etc. and ask them later to pay for the things you provide to them.  Is it right or not ? - Maricel

 

Maricel:

Well, your question depends on many things.  When you do something for someone who is in need, especially family, you do it out of love and concern.  Did your sister say she would repay you for having her and family in your home? 

 Doing for people, and especially family, is not something we expect to be repaid for, because we do this from the heart.  This is a matter of conscience for your sister and her family and would depend on whether you need the repayment and whether she could afford to make restitution for what you did for her.  If you were called to go beyond her need and feel you were imposed upon, that is another matter.

I suggest you pray about your concerns.  God bless you for your generosity to your family.  God saw your kindness and it will be rewarded two fold.  - CatholicView Staff

 


"I no longer love my husband.  Do I have to continue like this?" - Karen

 

CatholicView Staff:

I am a Catholic. I was married at age 19 in the Catholic Church. I no longer love my husband. He is a good man and he loves me. I can barely tolerate sexual intercourse, but I force myself because he is my husband. Do I have to continue on like this?

 

Karen:

You must seek counsel on your marriage.  A  marriage should be happy and yours is not.   Please make an appointment to sit down and discuss all details that you do not give here, such as if you have children, how long you have been married, etc.  Keep praying about your situation, asking the Lord to guide you in this matter. - CatholicView Staff




"Can my civil marriage be blessed by the Church/priest?" - Diane

 

CatholicView Staff:

We are getting married away from home in a civil ceremony.  Can the marriage be blessed by the Church/priest afterwards? - Diane

 

Dear Diane:

 

Being civilly married means legally married.  But as you know, it is not recognized as valid in the Church until it is blessed.  Certainly you can have your marriage convalidated (blessed) in the Church afterwards.  Congratulations!  May the Lord give you much happiness.  CatholicView Staff




"I was wondering what God or the Bible says about killing in the military?"
- Jason

 

CatholicView Staff:

I am planning on entering the Navy, I am not super religious but I do try to be the person God wants me to be.  I was wondering what God or the Bible says about killing in the military? - Jason

 

Dear Jason:

We have received many questions concerning this subject. I am going to refer you to an article that one of our volunteer priests at CatholicView addressed concerning this topic: "IS KILLING IN WAR AGAINST GOD'S WILL"

WAR, is it against the commandment: "You shall not kill?"  The Hebrew Scriptures (the Old Testament) are full of stories about battles and wars for the defense of the Holy Land.    During that time God blessed and protected the Israelites in their battle plans.  The Christian scriptures (the New Testament) use military terms to describe the battle between good and evil.  The theological concept of a  "just war" is what should guide the conscience in this matter.  In short, this concept of a "just war" says that it must, in defense of your homeland (the "just war" theory doesn’t have room for the morality of STARTING a war), that the "good" must outweigh the evil of destruction and death, that targets must not involve innocent "civilians," and that war is considered the last option after "good faith" negotiations have all been exhausted.

Killing (I prefer the term MURDER) is never an acceptable Christian option.  But sometimes killing (taking life in self-defense) is tolerated for the greater good in war. Usually, the idea of self-defense is used to "justify" the taking of life in war.  And that would make sense.  For example, I personally would NEVER EVER allow anyone to take my life or the lives of those whom I love (such as my family).   I would defend myself even to the point of killing the perpetrator to defend my loved ones and myself.

In a role as soldier, one is protecting one’s self and loved ones from the destruction that enemies would bring to this country if the enemies were not stopped.

The military is a worthy and wonderful calling to serve.  Of course, all of us would wish there was no military, no wars, but that is not the reality now.  We need those who can protect us and soldiers are the ones that God calls for in this time and place to protect us all.  I must trust that God will do whatever it takes to bring peace to this broken world.”

And there you have it. Hope this helps you. –CatholicView Staff




"The people adjacent to me are Satanists.  Can they draw me to them?"
 - Connie

 

CatholicView Staff:

I apologize for not being as respectful to the priesthood when I asked my question yesterday---I am worried that the people adjacent to me are Satanists and I have wakened feeling the group trying to draw me to them------can they?? Please answer as this is legit---------thank you for your service to people such as me. - Connie

Connie:

You have nothing to worry about.  You are a Christian Catholic.  Satan cannot touch or force a Christian to do anything.  It would have to be your choice to let him into your life. 

When you get home each night, I want you to pray and ask God to protect you from all evil.  Ask Him to shield you from all harm.  Always remember, God is more powerful than Satan.  Keep your bible nearby at your bedside and get comfort from it by reading how much He loves you.  When you pray, pray simply for God knows all your fears because He can read your heart.  Try saying a simple prayer such as this or make up your own:

"Lord, I am surrounded by people who have turned their backs on You and follow the works of Satan.  But I know this evil cannot touch me because I belong to you.  Satan is powerless for I am surrounded by Your legion of angels because I am Yours.  Let me not be troubled, because through Your precious love for me, You will take away my fears and give me the peace only You can give.  I ask all this through the powerful Name of my Savior, Jesus Christ.  Amen.

Now, Connie, I want you to sleep without cares, for the Lord will be right there with you.  Nothing can harm you.  You have the greatest adversary on your side.  Do not worry.  Be at peace.   - CatholicView Staff



"My house is haunted.  Can you help me?" - Shannon

 

CatholicView Staff:

My home is haunted.  Can you help me? - Shannon

 

Dear Shannon:

I would advise talking to your priest and asking him to come and bless your house.  In the meantime, go into each room with your bible and say a prayer.  Ask God to take away all evil things from your presence in this house.  At night, keep your bible on your nightstand and read a verse or two before bedtime.

May the Lord bless you and your family, as well as your home. - CatholicView Staff




"Where did Adam's son Cain find his wife?" George

 

CatholicView Staff:

If Adam & Eve were the 1st humans God created ,where did Cain find his wife after being sent out on his own? - George

 

George:

You ask, "Where did Cain’s wife come?"  Catholic Answers (http://www.catholic.com/thisrock/quickquestions/keyword/Old%20Testament/page2) has this to say:  "Although their names are not recorded in Scripture, Adam and Eve had other children, including daughters—Cain seems to have married his sister. This was necessary (for a time) to propagate the human race. St. Augustine explained this in The City of God, book XV. When the necessity for sibling marriage ended so, too, did God’s allowance of it."  We hope this helps a bit.  - CatholicView Staff




"Should my girlfriend go with me to talk about my annulment?"
- Doug

 

CatholicView Staff:

I plan to meet with my priest soon about an annulment. My girlfriend (who is also Catholic) wants to go with me.  We have discussed getting married and it's important to her that it be in the church.  The annulment is about me and my relationship with the church.  Should she go with me? - Doug

 

Doug:

My thinking is that you should go alone, as it involves discussion of a marriage that is still valid.  In the eyes of the Church, you are still married to your former wife.  If you do not mind having your girlfriend present and she feels comfortable about this, then it will be up to you and the priest to advise you in this matter. - CatholicView Staff




"I am Catholic and attend a Catholic College.  My roommate  is Catholic also. 
I hear her committing sexual sin at night.  What should I do?" - Kayla

 

CatholicView Staff:

I am a student at a faithfully Catholic college. My roommate is a practicing Catholic and so am I, but last night I woke up in the middle of the night and could hear her masturbating. This makes me terribly uncomfortable but I don't feel like I can talk to her about it. What should I do?

 

Kayla:

Certainly it is an embarrassment to you to be witness to an act of masturbation.  And it is a delicate topic to discuss with your roommate.  In lieu of talking to your friend, perhaps you might want to give her a copy of an article CatholicView published concerning this topic.  Here is the link:  masturbation May2007.

Your friend may not realize that she is committing a sin by betraying the body God has given to her for safekeeping, and that her body is the temple for the soul.  Encourage her to read this article which will give her an in-depth look at her behavior. 

God bless you for your desire to help you friend in this matter. - CatholicView Staff




"My friend's daughter is marrying in the Methodist Church.  The parents
are upset and the father refuses to walk her down the aisle. 
Is this right?" - Elisa

 

CatholicView Staff:

A friend of mine, who was raised Catholic but has been attending a Methodist church, is getting married.  Her parents have said, since she is not getting married in the Church, that they will treat it as a period of mourning, will not invite extended family, and, although they will attend, her father will not walk her down the aisle.  Is this the way the Church teaches us to treat our children? - Elisa

 

Dear Elisa:

Sometimes parents have negative reactions when their child changes churches or denominations and see it as a personal failure. One woman thought her parents felt “they didn't raise their kids to be strong-enough Catholics.  This sense of failure also leads parents to feel embarrassment in front of others.  To react badly to their child's marriage does not show love for their daughter, and others will notice this and reflect more on the parent's behavior than the fact that their daughter is marrying in a Methodist Church.  They should let this special day be beautiful, with loving support and hope that their daughter will find happiness with someone who truly loves her.  


If you have the opportunity to speak to your friend's parents, ask them to pray for their daughter and continue to support her in all things ahead. Hopefully, the father will relent and walk his daughter down the aisle proudly.  Life is too short to do things one may later regret.  Prayer is the answer.  - CatholicView Staff 




"My wife and I work at jobs that may dispense contraceptives. 
What is our obligations here?" - Ed

 

CatholicView Staff:

Thank you in advance for taking time to respond to my question.  I will try to be brief.  I am getting ready to start a new sales job and will be selling EMR Software to doctor's offices.  Some of these doctors most likely prescribe contraceptives.  I have read that this could be considered Remote material cooperation, which is not a sin, as I understand it.  Similarly, my wife works for a large health care insurance company that may (we have not confirmed) pay for abortion and contraceptive coverage.  As we have become more deeply involved in our faith, these issues continue to arise when you consider that your grocery, pharmacy, and insurance company may be participating in immoral practices.  What is our obligation here?  Again, thank you for such a great service and know that we keep all priests in our prayers.  - Ed

 

Ed:

It is commendable that you living your life as God wants.  In your job as well as your wife's work in a health care faculty, you are not the ones who makes the moral decisions concerning abortion or contraceptives. You are not the responsible parties for these actions.   One could say that I shouldn’t work in a store because people can buy liquor and that would cause some to sin by getting drunk or further deepen their alcoholism.  I can work in that store even though liquor is being sold.  Just because people abuse something that is otherwise morally neutral is not my moral responsibility.   Medications are morally neutral; how it is used by a person is what makes it sinful or not.  Your job is selling EMR Software, not promote contraceptives.  Your wife works for a health faculties that can help people get medical care that is needed, in spite of the fact that contraceptives and abortion issues are present as well.    Please know that you are living as God wants, and as long as you continue to do the right things, you are not at fault.  God bless you both.  Keep the faith.  - CatholicView Staff

 


"Why would God allow St. Theresa to suffer such emptiness?" - Mark

 

CatholicView Staff:

I have recently read more about the life of St (Mother) Theresa and learned that she had a long period in her life where she felt no connection or comfort from God. This has shaken my faith a great deal. It is hard to understand how someone like Mother Theresa could give everything to God like she did, but I always understood it thinking God strengthened her and rewarded her with peace and inner love. But it seems like that wasn't the case. Why would God allow someone who was SO devoted to him, to suffer with such emptiness? It makes no sense. - Mark

Dear Mark:

Yes, I understand what you are feeling.   St. Theresa did feel isolated from God although she was true to His Word.  I cannot profess to know the mind of God.  I can only say in St. Theresa's defense that although she felt that alienation, she continued to move forward in her faith, helping others, proclaiming God in spite of her feelings of isolation.  I think, yes, she felt a peace so she never gave up nor did she turn her back on what she knew to be true.  She was faithful to the end.  Was God testing her, I cannot say, for God's reasons are not our human reasoning.

I can only say that God saw this faithfulness and He will reward her greatly.  She walked the path and took many others to faith.  God sees all and He knows her heart.  Hope this helps. -  CatholicView Staff




"Why can't people stop obsessing about my weight and see me as fully
functioning with equal ability and equal dignity?"  - Kell

 

CatholicView Staff:

How can someone who is hated and stigmatized in this culture fulfill obligations to love and serve other people? In this culture, all fat people are assumed to be lazy, gluttonous, mentally ill, stupid, ugly and sexually dysfunctional. I've tried having normal relationships with people, but never (I'm 51) have I been able to have any kind of relationship with anyone where I was seen as a fully-functional human being, and where I wasn't constantly being called upon to provide medical studies and other proof that fatness is primarily a genetic characteristic, that I'm not lazy, not a glutton, not crazy, etc. In one case, I had to end a friendship that had lasted over 25 years because the woman became obsessed with "dieting," and with hating and insulting me and all fat people when she turned 50 and began to fear her own death. I tried to reach out to her, to provide both emotional support and legitimate science about fatness, but she refused to be in our friendship if she didn't get to talk about dieting and how ugly fat people (including me) supposedly are. She couldn't even grant me the respect necessary for us to disagree and avoid discussing the subject. Some people even are enraged that I even exist, and have shunned and hazed me outright, including vandalizing my property, public ridicule and other overt acts of hatred. How can I love others when there is no one -- even the ignorant and condescending "well wishers" who think I'm a poor, tragic lazy glutton who needs "help" -- who can stop obsessing about fatness whenever I'm around, or to whom I am a fully-functional human being of equal ability and equal dignity?  Kell

 

Kell:

Unfortunately people make judgments on all of us.  In your case, it seems you are faced with people who think that only the thin are worthy of being humans.  They do not see beyond this and that is rather sad and not Christlike.  Unfortunately, we are now living in a "look good" society and this is wrong and sinful.  They are missing out on knowing the real person you are.  Thankfully the Lord looks beyond this and sees the "person inside" who loves and has faith in Him and wants to do His will.

One way to get some self esteem is first to know that God is not looking at your size.  He loves you unconditionally, just the way you are.  He sees within your heart and sees your suffering and He suffers along with you for you are unique and special in His eyes.

Why not be visible by becoming a lector in your Church?  Let others see you reading the gospel each Sunday?  Or becoming a Minster of the Eucharist?  Another way of placing importance in the eyes of those who are self centered?  Is it right to do this?  I say that you do this for God first, Who knows your sufferings, Who will open the eyes of others to see the goodness beyond your weight.

The following link may be helpful to you:  Click here: Looking Good on the Outside                  

May the Lord bless you.  You are loved by Almighty God.  Hold tight to this for it is absolutely true.  God never lies.  - CatholicView Staff




"Where does the soul go after death?" - Alberto

 

CatholicView Staff:

Where does the soul go after death?  If it goes to heaven, hell or purgatory, then what happens on the Judgment Day? - Alberto

 

Alberto:

The Bible clearly teaches us in the New Testament that we continue on after death. "Then the dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it." Eccl: 12 -7.   Our body is where our spirit lives.  Just like our homes are just temporary, and after a while they may move to another place, so it is with our bodies.  On earth it is our dwelling.  When we die we leave the old 'house' behind and move on to our "heavenly home".

On Judgment Day the soul will be re-united with the body.   The soul does not die.  The body does and returns to the earth.  When Christ returns to earth, both soul and body are reunited and will face the judgment of Jesus Christ.  Hope this helps a bit.  - CatholicView Staff




"Must I confess sins I forgot to confess prior to receiving communion?"
- Clark

 

CatholicView Staff:

For years I led a very sinful life.  I have confessed my sins, however past mortal sins come to mind from time to time.  Must I confess these sins prior to receiving communion? --- Clark

 

Clark:

Although you forgot to mention one sin during confession, your full intent was to confess all sins in their entirety. If you feel uncomfortable  about this particular sin(s), when you next go to confession, express it along with any other sins. God knows you fully intended to confess everything so He, being the loving God He is, has already forgiven you. 

Please pray to God and ask Him for His peace.  - CatholicView Staff




"My son refuses to attend mass.  Any ideas about what to do?" - Joe

 

CatholicView Staff:

My soon to be 17 year old son no longer attends mass. I have grounded him along with other punishments but he still will not attend.  I would like to still have him attend but I also want to have a relationship with him which we currently do not have. All we seem to do is argue. Any ideas? - Joe.

 

Dear Joe:

Please know your son is of an age where he wants to do his own thing.  At 17 years of age, children can be stubborn.  Grounding him will not help, but through prayer, God can move him in the right direction.  All you can do is be an good example.  Pray hard about this to God, Who sees and knows everything.  When the time is right, your son will come back to Church.

In the meantime, continue to love your son, showing compassion and understanding.  This is all you can do.  But keep the power of God in your heart, knowing that "the apple will not fall far from the tree".  I will pray for you.  - CatholicView Staff




"My daughter had a miscarriage in the first few weeks of pregnancy. 
Doesn't life start at conception? - Janet

 

CatholicView Staff:

My daughter recently suffered a miscarriage a few weeks into her first pregnancy.  The doctor said it was caused by an egg that was not viable and did not progress.  I am confused; if life begins at conception, was this a human life, a real or potential person, or not? - Janet

 

Janet:

Sadly, I cannot answer whether it was a life or not.  The egg may have been faulty and never joined with the sperm.  CatholicView can only say that God knows all things, and if a life was there, that baby's soul is in heaven.  Rest assured if this is the case, your daughter will see her child someday in good health.  Be at peace.  God will handle all things.  - CatholicView Staff

 


"My husband wants to take my car keys away so I won't go to mass. 
Why is he so mean?" - Charlene

 

CatholicView Staff:

I go to Church and my son is an Altar Boy. we love our church and priest! My husband is Catholic but will NOT go to church. He starts arguments with me about gong to mass and says I must have a lot of money to waste on gas going to church. He says that only sinners need to Mass. He got mad at me today because he decided to eat at 12 noon today, which he never does and I was not home, I was on my way home from Mass. He said he is going to put a STOP to me going to church because when he wants to eat it should be on table when he wants it. He made a terrible statement, he said he is more important than me attending church. He said he will take my car keys away so I can't go.  I told him no matter what he does, he will never stop me from going to Mass. He said, walk!  Why is he so mean, my 11 year old son is confused...  Charlene

 

Dear Charlene:

I am sorry to hear that your husband is abusive to you and your son when you go to mass on Sundays.  Marriage is about loving and caring for each other.  If your husband does not want to attend Church, that is his prerogative but he should not prevent you from attending.

Can you go to your family so you can be safe from your husband's brutality?

If you plan to stay in this marriage, you will need help.  Please talk to your parish priest so you can know how to handle this situation.  The priest may want to suggest marriage counseling, if your husband would agree to attend.

Once again, talk to a priest about your marital problems.  He will help you to make a decision when he hears all the things that are happening to you and your son.  I will pray for you. 

May the Lord  bless you with peace within your life.  Know that God understands the trials you are facing.  Be safe and be blessed always.  - CatholicView Staff




"I have had many illnesses and am losing my faith.  Why did God
allow all this to happen? - Alene

CatholicView Staff:

Over the past 4 years, I have had illnesses after illnesses which led to open heart surgery in 08 to replace a valve in which I ended up having a stroke, where now I'm disabled. what I don't understand is why God allowed this to happen, especially after asking for His blessing to look over me during this time.  It's left me angry and I have lost my faith.  - Alene

 

Alene:

I am so sorry that you have suffered so many illnesses.  I know and share your feelings of frustration that you feel.  And yes, we all get angry because we feel deserted. We don't know why God allows the evil in this world to overtake those who believe.  But we do know that God does not promise any of us perfect health or cures in this life.  Throughout the bible we see others who felt the same way we do.  Jesus Himself felt the same way when he cried "My God, My God, Why has thou forsaken me?" - Mark 15:34.  And remember the Book of Job where everything was taken, his whole family and then the terrible disease he had to face all alone?  In spite of his turmoil he never cursed God during all his sufferings.

Why does He allow these things to happen to innocent people?  The pain and the misery that we pray about doesn't seem to get better.  Doesn't God hear us?

Even though such things seem to chisel away our faith, we know there is a God of great and infinite power and mercy.  We know through the Holy Spirit Who lives within us that Jesus is the Son of the Most high.  We feel Him within our soul, we see His works when a new baby comes into being, we see Him when He wakes us each morning, we see His mighty Hand in everything beautiful on this earth, and especially in His word in the gospels.  If we listen, He whispers His peace within us when we are sick.  

Like you, I wish I could understand why the infinitely powerful and merciful God has not always granted my prayers about my own sufferings.   I wish I could understand why He does not grant my prayers for the ills I face, and I cannot understand why He allows it to be so.  But I know all will come right for us someday.   Saint Paul wrote: "all things work together unto good to them that love God" (Rom 8:38). Saint Paul did not promise that we would be able to see how all things work out for good to those who trust God — only that they will.  Only in heaven shall we see all things clearly, and all the reasons why 1 Corinthians 13:12 tells us:  "Now we see things imperfectly as in a cloudy mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity.  All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely. 

Your faith has carried you through open heart surgery, a stroke, and many other health issues including being disabled.  You are still among us.  He kept you going in this life, no matter the suffering.  So please do not give up on your faith.  It is the most precious thing you can ever have, for it will take you someday to eternal life, where there will be no more pain or suffering.  Bear with your trials, knowing we all face one kind or the other, yet knowing that God is right there with you, crying with you, loving you, and making plans for your life here on earth and one day in eternal heaven. 

Use this link to learn more about suffering: "THE MYSTERY OF SUFFERING"

Keep praying.  Keep the lines open.  He loves you and has much in store for you. - CatholicView Staff




 

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