Responding to Lapsed Catholics

[@julysanchez-sadowski7086]

Dear Fr Casy-- I'm a practicing Catholic. All the arguments that the lapsed Catholics have I feel. I understand what they are saying. I still practice, to the best of my ability, and lead our children in The Church with my husband. For me, where the rubber hits the road, is where I sit with God in my Sacramental Life. I have my issues with The Church, God knows this, so I go, over and over and over again, in faith, in my humble brokenness and lack of understanding to the Eucharist with the hope (expectation?) that God will sort it out on his end. Thank you for all you do. With every Rosary I pray I offer you and your brothers to the Blessed Mother to keep you.

[@uteme]

You are truly blessed to be able to excelently articulate your faith journey. ♡

[@RetiredRhetoricalWarhorse]

We're experiencing a lot of upheaval in our church currently. Switzerland has a system where an elected body oversees the worldly needs of a local congregation (paying priests, catechists and so on, keeping the buildings in good condition etc). There's a lot of worldly politicking in this and it shows in degeneracy. For me, I have come to terms with the church as an institution because I have learned many things that changed my view of what has been done and why. I get that not everybody shares that knowledge nor the view. But as to your hope I'd like to give you a bit of good news: My wife is starting as a catechist and she's a thorn in a few people's eyes who hold long-standing office. The adversity is parting for her and the priest like the red sea is parting for Moses. Antagonism does not prevail in the face of calm self-assuredness. Do the best you can. Be a pillar to your community and your light will be like a banner to the like-minded. Just do your thing as well as you can and whether you're aware of it or not, things will turn to the better. And don't forget, god has a weird sense of humor. The best things will happen last minute, hist last minute and not yours, and in ways you wouldn't ever expect.

[@BabyPanda889]

Saya protestan indonesia. Ajaran katolik adalah filsafat thomas aquinas. Filsafat² bukan ajaran bapa bapa gereja mula². Exitus redditus menjiplak inalilahi wainalilahi rojiun islam.

[@BabyPanda889]

Saya hanya percaya Yesus Kristus sebagai Pribadi Allah Tritunggal. Ketika menjadi Kristen muda saya belajar dari para pendeta. Setelah dewasa saya belajar dari Alkitab

[@noel_112]

​@@BabyPanda889What are you saying lol. Catholicism was in place about 1200 years before Aquinas. Stop showing your ignorance.

[@krdiaz8026]

True story: When I was 13, I stopped believing in God because I had a difficult childhood, but I told God that if He truly exists, to make me believe in Him again. In my late 20s, I had several experiences of the presence of God. One of these experiences was when I was cleaning my bedroom, and I felt God looking down on me like a father would look at his infant child in a cradle - just a look of pure love. I'm a philosophy major, so I honestly thought God would give me arguments for His existence, but instead He chose to show me that I was loved. I then started watching Catholic KZbin videos and slowly grew in faith. I had forgotten what I had said to God, but when I remembered, I was just 😮. To this day, it amazes me that even while I was rejecting God, He still gave me His grace to say that little prayer. I remember thinking, "Somebody must have been praying for me." Please don't stop praying for the lapsed Catholics! There is always hope until the very end of their lives.

[@starrymelissa]

That was just beautiful. Thank you for sharing your story. 🤍

[@jeannebouwman1970]

What a beautiful way to come to God! His grace is amazing

[@downenout8705]

The is no hope for the truly lapsed 2 Corinthians 4: 4 makes that very clear.

[@whocares435-z9v]

If God is talking or communicating with you, then why would he need to give you arguments for his existence. He already proves it by being there. Or were you thinking he'd do it so you don't dismiss it as a hallucination? (Genuinely wondering)

[@whocares435-z9v]

Also, what were the other experiences?

[@michaelblair5566]

I was away for 27 years from 1991 to 2018. I had two strokes and I got a visit from Jesus one night. He told me to "Get back to Mass". I did that, started attending Mass again in Ironton, Ohio, went to Reconciliation. In 2022 my Pastor asked me to serve Mass again (I had been a server from 1987 to 1991).

[@Chat562]

You're giving these scammers your money because of a nightmare induced by your childhood trauma?

[@wandabrun3269]

Welcome back to God’s heart. Jesus Christ gave his life for your eternal salvation. There is nowhere better in this earthly place , than (in) the faithful spouse of God, the HOLY CATHOLIC CHURCH, where you find the purest love of all, Jesus’s and his beloved Mother, Virgen Mary.

[@lukeyea]

​​@@Chat562 what are you talking about? The Catholic Church is the one that gives the most to the poor and needy especially in hardship countries like Africa, India ect. So I don't know where you're getting that the church is scamming you. Maybe do your research a little bit further. Godbless 🙏🙏🙏

[@crushinit2022]

Fr. David L Huffman in Ironton, correct?

[@rosaliekonieczny4941]

Our hearts are made for you O Lord and are restless until they rest in you. Welcome home

[@PaulLewis-m3p]

Hey mate, i am an aithiest but i really like watching your videos and getting your opinion on these important matter. i wish you nothing but good health

[@JoAnnFuir]

Keep watching this channel mate! 😊

[@jimreilly917]

Come home.

[@JdSpoof]

I'm not a Catholic, but agree with your responses. I will usually defend Catholicism considering most arguments against it are ignorant and misinformed.

[@ivetterodríguez-j4k]

As a Baptist I've read online (from non-religious folk) that praying to the saints is technically necromancy and the Eucharist is ritualistic cannibalism. And while Baptists don't pray to saints or even acknowledge them and for us communion is symbolic I still feel compelled to defend the Catholic view. The saints are alive in Christ not dead dead. I'm terrible at arguing though.

[@ivetterodríguez-j4k]

The two things I've read from non-religious folk concerning Catholicism is comparing praying to saints as necromancy and the Eucharist to ritualistic cannibalism. I feel compelled to argue against both despite being raised Baptist. Baptists don't even acknowledge Catholic saints and communion for us is merely symbolic (despite still having to confess our sins in prayer and be baptized to participate with no harm) and yet I still want to defend Catholicism. Ei. The saints would be alive in Christ so not necromancy.

[@DallasMay]

I would like to see a "What a Friar Packs in his luggage" video. How many changes of habits do you bring?

[@riohenry6382]

Thank you so much Fr. Casey. I’m a revert too and I now love the Church, prayer and reading the bible. It's been so meaningful for me now when as a child (in an 100% catholic country - the West coast of Ireland in the '70s). And back then they did tell us who to vote for and I hated the harsh judgements. I felt very little love in the Church back then. People online complain about pope Francis but his love, his true Christlike behaviour inspires me. Thank you for everything I had a miracle in my life that keeps me on the straight and narrow. It's a long story but it was a miracle and I didn’t deserve it at all. Christ is just a breath away from any of us. Seek and you shall find. That much I know for sure

[@lesmen4]

Great to see you travelling to Italy with Habit. I bet it will generate public curiosity and atleast 3 end up in seminary

[@weaver7811]

The most egregious part of this video to me is not taking the opportunity for a nap after being awake 29 hours.

[@BreakingInTheHabit]

When in Rome

[@weaver7811]

@@BreakingInTheHabit ...How very apt. How long have you been waiting for an opportunity to use that? XD

[@JackRosetta]

​@BreakingInTheHabit when in Rome, watch out for the freemasons, the third secret of fatima warned about them attacking the Pope and the faithful in the Holy City. Isn't that correct, Father?

[@grumpy9721]

10:29 oooh I know what place that is: la casa del preziosissimo sangue! Are there still nuns in there?😅

[@nicholasc.3928]

Honestly I would have napped. I had 4 hours of sleep last night and if I could have a nap I would take one now! 😅 ​@@BreakingInTheHabit

[@coreytheexplorer]

Praying for you, your mission, and the other Franciscan Friars! Praying for the world! Safe travels and prayers!

[@JackRosetta]

Pray that they stop lying about conservatives.

[@NinaNYC2000]

I’m back now because I found a church that has well educated and intellectual priests. The reason I left years ago was because I came across many parish priests that gave awful, uneducated, and insulting homilies that were not truly in the spirit of the Word, but rather personal expressions of their misinformed opinions on the world.

[@RPlavo]

Not much different today

[@NinaNYC2000]

@@RPlavo I agree. That’s the case in many parishes. I go to a church run by Dominican friars now. They are really great. No politics or opinions. They also offer a sort of continuing education class for Catholics to deepen their parishioners understanding. The RCIA class syllabus is like a college course. I wish this was the norm everywhere.

[@LukeShalz]

You must have found Dominicans or Jesuits! (Not that Franciscans aren’t great too lol)

[@Toucan475]

Sounds like you still have work to do

[@vesnastihovic7014]

Thank you for being such a great follower of Christ! All my love to you and your ministry. 🩷🩷🩷

[@bebetonguga]

Dear Casey, I insist, thank you for these vídeos. I"m a believer and teacher of Philosphy and Theology. I really find your approach inspiriational and very entertaining but at the same time, profound and useful. May Our Blessed Mother bless you and the Holy Spirit keep you in this minestery!!!

[@SolarityInTrance]

I hope the hierarchy in Rome get a lot of feedback from you Fr. Casey when in Rome. You are a true light in the Catholic church.

[@dominichockchye4948]

This is far one of your best dear Fr.Casey. u touched on many aspects of what most priests will say. Keeping you in my prayers. Dominic 🇸🇬

[@lilacheaven222]

I was visited by Mother Mary on three separate occasions, and felt a strong pull towards the Bible 2 years ago. I knew I was being called back into my faith but I struggled so much accepting the fact. I see my brothers and sisters in faith consumed with this rage against the LGBT+ community, against other branches, against other ways of living and political stances and it hurts me. I do not feel it is my place to judge other people no matter what the Bible says, and I do not feel comfortable letting that hate dictate whether my faith is worthy or not. This is the reason I don't participate with my local Church and I don't engage with other Catholics unless they are open to treating others with respect, kindness and dignity. I pray as much as I can for guidance and have called myself into chastity. Please, pray for me.

[@Anon.5216]

We go to Church to worship Jesus. We do not go to judge others.

[@dnzswithwombats]

​@@Anon.5216 ... that itself is a judgment.

[@avemaria1014]

Worry not dear! God's mother is mother to all humanity since all are created by God and in the image of God her son. She came for you, great! Heed her advice, her gesture, talk to her as a friendly n most loving of mothers daily, as her what she wishes you to know n how n what ... please my dear, pray the prayers of the rosary daily. God gave us Christ Jesus thru Mary, let's learn to go by the same route as chosen by God the father, to God thru Mary. Pray the prayers of the rosary daily, Mary will help u get to her son quicker n easier. We'll keep each other in prayer my dear❤❤❤

[@dnzswithwombats]

@@avemaria1014 You are deceived.

[@dnzswithwombats]

@@avemaria1014 Deceived and deceiving.

[@adanie36]

As a cradle catholic who lapsed for 6 years to be Protestant and finally found my way home this year, I really appreciate this video!! I wish I had seen this when I first started to lapse.

[@faithbooks7906]

You are a blessing to the church!

[@KaueMelo]

The most amazing thing of the video (beyond the content, which is great) is the fact that you did it all using your free time in the airport!! 😁👌

[@vincewarde]

Aa A retired evangelical minister, I would like to reply to this excellent video: 1) As I am sure everyone knows, lapsed Catholics come to, and sometimes through, our churches. The one thing that every single one I encountered had in common is that they had never made their faith personal - or in our language, they were "churched" but never established a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. To be clear, I have met MANY Catholics who have such a relationship with Jesus, and I Jesus is certainly proclaimed in the Catholic Church, but those whom I met either resisted the Gospel, or never understood it. The more Catholics who have this kind of relationship with the Lord, the fewer will become lapsed. 2) Suffering: Your comments are completely valid. I say this as someone who has been in severe and chronic pain since 1985. If the Lord offered to take all my pain away, but required me to give up all that I have been taught through the experience, I would say, "No thank You Lord, I am too grateful for all the gifts you have given my through the pain". 3) Women in ministry: While I disagree with the position of the Catholic Church (my daughter is ordained), to be fair, the Catholic Church has more women doing ministry than many evangelical churches that ordain women. There is so much more to ministry than the sacraments or ordination. 4) Celibacy: While some are clearly called to this life, IMHO there are at least two problems with requiring it. a) It gives the impression that a married couple, remaining faithful to year other, are somehow less holy than a celibate person. I have to wonder just how much of this tradition is rooted in gnosticism.... b) I do not know how I could possibly do ministry without my wife at my side. From the beginning, long before I became a pastor, we worked side by side in ministry - even before we were married. She was with me all three times I was oral boarded, and had she presented any red flags, I would not have been ordained. I cannot begin to count the number of times that her insights were invaluable - or the number of times she prevented me from doing something stupid. Every time I counseled a woman, she was by my side. I could go on and on, but you get the point.... 5) LBGTQ people: Our church takes EXACTLY the position you outlined. 6) Evangelism: I could have said the same thing. I would only add that it is the Holy Spirit who leads and works in evangelism. Every once in a while, we get to play a small part. 😉😉 7) The sexual abuse that happened in the Catholic Church, as well as some things in our churches, is affecting us too. You're right, we all need to do better.... 8) Calling Catholics to come back from evangelical churches. I loved what you said. I think it would be wonderful to see the best of evangelical churches take root in Catholic churches... most of all, I think this would please our Lord. 9) Closed Communion: I respect the Catholic position, and have never gone forward during Mass. That said, Wesleyan Churches tend to follow Wesley's practice of urging SINCERE seekers to receive communion. I Christ is indeed present in Holy Communion, then a person can indeed come to faith in Him through such an encounter. Indeed, I have seen this very thing happen. Thanks for yet another great video. I would love to meet you sometime!

[@avemaria1014]

Wow! Thank you for taking time to listen, watch n observe...the enthusiasm is great n that's all so good. Keep it up! Go ahead n meet Fr. or any other catholic priest just chit chat, qn n answer, share views...it's okay please. Viva Cristo ray.

[@EJ-gx9hl]

Thank you for being an example of what a Christian should be. I’ve been praying that Catholics, Protestants and orthodox can have more meaningful dialogue and conversations and fight alongside each other instead of against each other

[@vincewarde]

@@EJ-gx9hl Thank you for your kind words. We are all called to be Christlike. If we cannot be loving towards each other, how can we call ourselves Christians? Does this mean we cannot or should not discuss our differences? Of course not! But we must do so with gentleness and respect..... I appreciate Father Cole's commitment to all of the above!

[@robis7238]

You have intellectual words and a heart that seems to search for God. However, I don't think you understand what is meant by Holy Communion. It is actually the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus. Not just any person can turn bread into God.

[@vincewarde]

@@robis7238 Yes, I have intellectual words - but I also have an over 50 year walk with Jesus Christ. He literally saved my life and transformed me. I have seen him work, and have been privileged to play a small part in that work..... I completely understand the Catholic position, I just don't, at this point, agree with it. Of course, that could change..... 1) I don't agree with the Catholic position on ordination. Much like Baptism, IMHO, there is normative ways in which one is ordained and extraordinary ways in which one can be ordained. My personal ordination I would consider to be ordinary, as it was done by one of our bishops. The issue that you will raise is the consecration of our Bishops, as we are descended through the Anglican Church. 2) In regards to the presence of Christ in Holy Communion, I hold that He is indeed present in a very real way. The closest of the classical views to mine would be consubstantiation - although I do not think that we can fully understand this. However, spiritual things are very real... Additionally, as I mentioned above, my calling and interest at this point is to become a good defender of the entire Christian faith. In this effort, I embrace ALL believers in Christ who share the same mission. For that reason, I love Father Cole as my brother in Christ and fellow worker in the kingdom. If I am speaking with someone, I don't care if they become Catholic, Baptist, Orthodox or Free Methodist like myself, I want them to have a real saving relationship with Jesus Christ. I also want them to know why they believe. That's why I am putting a lot of effort into studying apologetics at 70+ - and it's not nearly as easy as it used to be 😁😁 One of the things on my list is to read and study the Church Fathers. So, who knows, I might change my mind.... The next thing on my list is to study the formation of the NT Canon. In any case, I have gone on long enough. May God Bless You!

[@ccaruso73]

I couldn't imagine running into you recording in the airport!... LOTS OF love and prayers! have fun!

[@NXTown]

Father Casy, Thank you for providing spiritual guidance and re-assurance for all. Due to your work here, I found answers to questions to which my local community couldn't give me real and confident answers and thus you have re-assured me as catholic christian. Thank you and God bless you! 🙏🏻

[@jeffhedglen]

So, so good. Love the Q&As you’ve been doing but the editing, varied locations, scenes along the way and the pace, was just wonderful. And why was that airport so empty!!?

[@creamlemon1]

Venerable Fulton J. Sheen warned that for the next 100 years the biggest temptation for the church is to become political, we must resist the temptation. Hundred years have not passed.

[@JackRosetta]

It's the Church's job to be involved in world leadership. When we don't, the world goes nuts. Like it is now

[@Descriptor413]

I've found too often that folks define their faith according to their politics, and not the other way around. In the US, neither political party really lives up to Christ's ideals, but too often folks seem to get the impression that being a good Catholic means being a good Democrat or (more commonly) good Republican. Or, conversely, we define our faith as the opposite of our perceived enemies, and in doing so, end up throwing out the genuinely good things that they might also believe. In both cases, the problem is failing to define ourselves according to Christ.

[@MrMustang13]

@@Descriptor413I mean the democrats being pro-Ab… completely void them from being an option to vote for the Catholic.

[@ZTAudio]

@@creamlemon1 Well, the current Pope contradicts Sheen … make whatever excuses you wish.

[@dominicpardo4783]

Sheen was just a man with opinions.

[@piemasta93]

What a beautiful video, all these questions were answered so eloquently with care and understanding where the person is coming from. Hope you enjoyed your time in rome

[@mrsandmom5947]

The church fails to recognize that women have been abused and mistreated too. There are some real narcissistic priests out there. We also have some outstanding priests who really want to do what they are called to do. But, I have a real trust issue with all priests. I’ve been away from the church for a while and trying to find my way back. I watch mass on line for now.

[@Justhumbleme]

The Church doesn't fail. People fail.

[@mrsandmom5947]

@@Justhumbleme You are right. Some fail miserably. It’s taken me awhile but I’m getting ready to try again. I love Mass, and love the Lord, who has been right by my side.

[@roddycavin4600]

​​@@mrsandmom5947you appear to be on your way home. I will remember you in my prayers. As I've said on here already there will be priests, bishops and cardinals in hell just make sure we are not standing beside them.

[@MagdusiaPoProstu]

Please, attend mass in basilica or cathedral catholic church which is under Our Mother, Mother of JHS protection and patronage like for example named under Immaculate Conception or any name for Our Lady that speaks to you. Pray and please Mary, Our Mother asking Her intercession to heal your trust wounds and bring you to most loving presence of Her merciful child Jesus Christ of Nazareth. Our beautiful, gentle Mother will guide you. 🙏🌱🙏

[@avemaria1014]

Ohh dear! Courage! U r on the right track! All will be well. Try to redirect the prayers of the rosary daily n anytime. Mother of God will handle that best with her son our Lord, just say rosary daily. Her son Jesus refuses nothing asked by her. She's shortcut to Christ's heart❤

[@mmudisefoka6154]

Thank you fr Casey for the knowledge snd clarity shared

[@Rg-hc6or]

And charity!! ❤

[@rossiele]

Welcome to Italy Fr. Casey! And thank you for this video, so many things to meditate!

[@chrisnmichelle0218]

Thank you for taking time and responding to comments here on KZbin, it makes you more "real" keep up the faith!

[@AcktongueBaby]

I'm not Catholic, followed Upon Friar Review and appreciate your faith and honesty. As Christians we need to lift all of us up.

[@chrisarr2]

Hi Fr. Casey! I am an italian follower of your videos, very interesting and helpful. I'm happy you are here in Italy for some time. Just a short word on the "non-denom" question. For some time, in my long faith crisis, I went to the evangelical service of the Waldesian church (the only historical protestant church here in Italy, founded in the Piemonte valleys around the same time of St.Francis life - well before Martin Luther). After some years, attending also to some of their monthly Holy Supper, I returned to the catholic Mass. Only here I feel I really found Jesus, in the Eucharist.

[@avemaria1014]

Great! Welcome home dear! Love and blessings from God❤

[@AidanLambert-xp6xz]

Great video as always, thank you Fr. Casey!

[@Jean_in_Stillness]

You are a very special soul, Fr. Casey. Many of us are thankful that you answered the call to your vocation. ✝

[@jessicasun4348]

I am a practicing Catholic and in discernment to consecrated religious life. I look forward to the day when women are no longer excluded from ordained ministry. Pope Francis has to date upheld the Catholic church's unequal treatment of women by exploiting misogynistic metaphors to dismiss the sincerely discerned vocations of priesthood in women, dating from and including Doctor of the Church St. Therese of Lisieux. How much our world lost because St. Therese of Lisieux was forbidden to live out her vocation in its fullness! Just as the world and our Church suffer when any person fails or is blocked from living out the fullness of their vocation. Pope Francis recently said women's ordination is "a theological problem", rooted in what are known as the "Petrine" and "Marian" principles. The pope is referencing a concept popularized by Swiss theologian Hans Urs von Balthasar (1805 - 1988) that essentially suggests the church has two natures: One based on the example of Peter, called to lead the church founded by Jesus. And one based on the example of Mary as the spouse of God, humbly receiving God's will and having a child, as the church is called to bear fruit in the world. These binary and complementary natures are meant to reflect the essentially feminine and masculine qualities of people, and therefore: women are to reflect Mary's example and men are to reflect Peter's. Women = Mary = Spouse = Church Man = Peter = Priest = Christ So in this thinking, because priests act in persona Christi, they must be men because they must "resemble" Jesus' maleness to be "capable" of having a "spousal" relationship with the church. AKA women cannot be priests because they cannot image Christ, because they do not have the genitalia. This can be followed to its (heretical) conclusion: Women are not made in the image and likeness of God. This argument prioritizes Jesus' maleness over his humanness, and reduces the spousal metaphor to a male-female relationship instead of a symbol of fidelity and mutual commitment. The simplistic gendering and sexualization of one's relationship with God and discipleship are not just a disservice to the Catholic imagination, but a tool of oppression. In this system, men are considered more suited for positions of authority and power, while women -- by their nature -- are best suited for obedience and submission. "A women's 'dignity' is best fulfilled through her role as a bride and mother." And you might be thinking: Aren't men part of the church? If this theory is taken to its logical end, it makes no sense that men can be part of the "Marian principle" of the church, but women couldn't possibly be part of the "Petrine principle" of the priesthood. And, in the words of St. Gregory Nazianzen, "What has not been assumed has not been saved". If we believe that Jesus assumed only maleness, and not humanness, then only the maleness he assumed is saved - not women. If the Catholic church won't ordain women because they don't resemble Jesus, then following that broken theology to its logical end they should also stop baptizing women. To act in persona Christi does not mean physically resembling the historical Jesus of Nazareth, but emulating Jesus the Christ, whose essential nature is not in his male anatomy but in his status as the eternal Logos of God, the second Person of the Trinity, and mediator for the church on earth. Nothing about this requires a specific set of body parts. "There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus." -- Gal 3:28 Fr. Casey, I'm grateful for the wonderful and needed media ministry you do here on this channel in an increasingly secular society. I am sure it comes with its own burdens, trials, and delights. I would ask that you prayerfully and seriously consider all theological arguments for and against women's ordination in the Catholic church, as well as take care and time to listen to the stories of laywomen who continue to experience their call to the diaconate. You have a broad reach on this channel, much more than most other Sisters, Brothers, or Fathers. I was so delighted reading Jesuit Gregory Boyle's second book "Barking to the Choir: The Power of Radical Kinship" (2017) where he too shared that he looks forward to the day when women will no longer be excluded from ordained ministry. As I continue discerning my own vocation, including a potential call to priesthood that came up and persisted since the third month of my first round of discernment, I tearfully hold the stories of many Sisters who had also sincerely discerned a call to priesthood but to this day have never been permitted to live into it fully. How our Church suffers!

[@theodoornap9283]

When people ask "why does God allow suffering" they aren't necessarily talking about a single parent struggling to make ends meet. I think this question more often comes with examples in mind such as childhood cancer, innocent children having to experience violation, unspeakable bodily mutilation or disability, that sort of thing. The type of suffering that seems impossible to explain by saying something like "it builds character". There is depravity and agony in the world that is so intense and absurd that it couldn't possibly be worth the "lesson" one may get out of it. Where's the lesson in a child being sold into trafficking and dying of an STD before age 10?

[@catholic_zoomer_bro]

On the "non-denom" question, I used to go to one as well, and they make great socializing places. But the mass isn't simply for making friends, it's for adoration. And I feel a lot of lukewarm people fall into that trap

[@drewidlifestyle7883]

@@catholic_zoomer_bro we go to a Catholic Church because my wife prefers it. But I struggle a bit the Catholic Church mass is so formulaic I struggle to “feel” the Holy Spirit when I’m just following the leader so to speak I fount the nondenominational church I went to much more hit to use the the measure you did I think God meets us where we are nd fits some better Catholic fits others better all one bodt

[@luispesqueralorenzo]

​@@drewidlifestyle7883Catholic mass is entirely Bible -based and it has been build on centuries of dedicated theology. The Holy Spirit is there more than any other celebration, no matter how "fun" or even beautiful they could be. Besides, Sacraments live within the Catholic Church, so no doubts about what Celebration we are to attend.

[@michaeldemarco5091]

​@@drewidlifestyle7883 Hi Drew! I'd like to share what my RCIA director told us before our confirmation and first communion: "The disciples had encounters with Jesus every day he was with them. Some were miraculous and spectacular age exciting, but many days were probably very normal. Still, all were a real encounter with our Lord" Feelings are really important, and it's a good thing to feel spiritually nourished in our churches, but it's important to remember that every Mass is an encounter with Jesus, even without the emotions and even without something spectacular happening. I've seen this perspective this help people actually get more out of Mass and out of the Eucharist because it gives them more reason to make the internal movement to bring themselves closer to God to best participate in these encounters. Just some food for thought!

[@jeannebouwman1970]

​@@drewidlifestyle7883my experience is that the first time going, or even the second and third time, would seem very formulaic (which it is, the formula drawn from the Bible), but I have found that if you are very accustomed with the mass that it will speak to you in ways that go deeper than other Churches. We wouldn't except to be touched deeply by a person if we have never met them before, but if you have been friends for a year or more you know each other better and the relationship is way more meaningful

[@drewidlifestyle7883]

@@luispesqueralorenzodidn’t say it wasn’t Bible based Think about it a slightly imperfect way You’re asked to count to a million, by twos to the rhythm of Macarena is it math based yeah but you’re so concentrated on getting it right you’re not absorbing anything Edit I should add what helped me was bringing a notebook and writing the readings, homily, And takeaways from my own reflection and prayer. But I look around and some look like they’re there checking off a to do list. Edit edit: to reiterate I dislike interdenominational fighting. As I said God meets us where we are Jesus not your(general your not you specifically) brand of Jesus isn’t the only way. Outside some straight up heretical sects most to all Christian denominations have Christ at the center.

[@bjaankkalenz]

What!? This was 5 days ago??? My daughter and parents were in Rome and visited the Vatican 5 days ago, you may have crossed paths. So cool!!! I quite enjoy your videos, you shed a lot of light on areas that everyday folks (such as myself) wonder about. Thank you for all you do. You will continue to be in my prayers.

[@ritaclara7327]

Thank you, Father, for answering my question. I'm still digesting your answer and look forward to seeing more of your trip in Italy.

[@Chat562]

Wait, what? Mr. Vow of Poverty is taking another once in a lifetime vacation for the 1%?

[@orbietborbi]

@@Chat562 Not quite... It's a conference, not a vacation, presumably related to his vocation as a priest and friar. Trust that it's something good and important.

[@Chat562]

@@orbietborbi I've been to tons of nonprofit conferences. Realized it was all a grift and got out.

[@orbietborbi]

@@Chat562 I truly don't believe Father Casey to be so two-faced. Have you seen his recent 'We Brought the Gospel to Baseball Stadiums' video? It explains a lot.

[@noahhirons8223]

​@@Chat562 Why assume the worst? Be charitable

[@swollenaor]

Not a religious man myself. But i enjoy your content, i enjoy your willingness to hear and listen to those who doesn't like the curch or even has some critique. Have fun in Rome. Maybe have a talk on camera with other friars and let them awnser these questions, could be interesting or even very profound. Next time, bring patrick with you, i would love to see his enthusiasm if he is in Rome or in the Vatican. Greetz from Zwolle in the Netherlands \o/

[@jim3922]

Fr Casey, I wanted to pass on a little wisdom I picked up at 43 yrs. A lot of those remote garage door keypads don’t need the pin entered to CLOSE the door. You just have to press the enter button and the door closes! No kidding. I found that out by accident last year.

[@lindaneumann1355]

The keypad on our second garage requires me to enter a code to shut it, just saying 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@oliverbell5765]

You are correct! You need the PIN to open it but just press the enter button and it closes!

[@tonox0]

Somehow the travel shoots and different settings made this even more enjoyable!

[@FSR431]

Well done Fr. Casey. Answering some critical questions that are out there in a manner that should give many pause for thought! But many of these questions come from what is wrong with the church or simply 'doesn't fit my lfe' . We cannot leave out what the believer needs and only receives in the Catholic Church: The Eucharist and the confession: the forgiveness of sins.

[@VincentAnthonyValentine]

@4:14 Fr. Casey nailed the black & white of it, and I am a textbook lay person, but my unsolicited advice from one parent to another: 1. Give them love, overwhelming love. Love God, love your kiddo, and the most difficult part of the journey is over. 2. Before my conversion, I was a strong proponent for LGBTQ as well as not pro-life. These were actually incredibly difficult for me to overcome, and especially in regards to being an Ally, I made a personal revelation that helped me reconcile my long lived beliefs with my newfound yet undeniable belief in God and His Church. We are all sinners, I am a practicing Catholic, and if you ask my family, they'd probably go as far as to call me zealous, but before I even get to work in the morning I have sinned at least a handful of times. "In my thoughts and in my words, in what I have done and what I have failed to do." Your child is loved so completely by God, just as any other. 3. I firmly believe part of the issue is the tremendous push back that very particular sin receives, which is why I say love them hard and firstly. Until I see marches denouncing divorce or pornography with the same fervor I have seen anti-LGBTQ marches, I will not be convinced that those screaming the loudest are truly there for Christ but rather their own bias and hate. 4. When I started studying Latin, I translated a saying I liked and made myself practice it to the point that it's engraved in my dang brain and it's my final advice - "Fac quod potes, et tende de reliquis." Do what you can, and let the Lord tend to the rest. It'll be okay.

[@avemaria1014]

Wow! God loves you. God wishes to reveal you more; ensure to receive sacraments more often (esp.penance that prepares your soul for holy communion). Talk to a priest always for guidance, Christ advises us thru them always.dont look at their personal weaknesses if any. Pray always, especially the prayes of the rosary.. go for adoration of the most blessed sacrament, go for mass often. God bless you. ❤

[@skipgiblets]

Father Casey, your comment that to be gay isn’t a sin, but acting on it is made me happy to hear. I’ve believed this for some time and tried to tell that to others. Thank you for saying that.

[@BreakingInTheHabit]

Yes, and the Church says that all people are to be loved and welcomed.

[@angelrogo]

​@@BreakingInTheHabitThat's not true. Involuntary singles are not welcome to the Church.

[@EnderElohim]

@@angelrogo that has nothing to do with being gay. Lots of people get married by arranged marriage as well.

[@sanc3375]

​@@angelrogo I don't know what kind of church you saw that was the case, you can still report it if it still that case

[@angelrogo]

@@sanc3375 Spain, the United States, and Poland. Yes, we involuntary singles are not welcome in the Church. Only two paths are allowed: marry before the age of 25 or accept a solitary life as a voluntary single forever. Those of us who have been permanently rejected by selfish and superficial "Catholic" women and have remained single against our will are not accepted in the Church. There are very good women outside the Church, agnostics or atheists, who are capable of truly and sincerely loving good Catholic men despised by superficial and selfish women who presume to be Catholic.

[@williambabbitt7602]

Brother Casey, I don’t even know how to start this comment except to say that I love what you’re saying and I’m with you 100%. This is what I was taught in seminary and by my own experience in the parish and in ministry, it is really a shame that people can’t separate the things that are bad nature from the things that are actually wonderful in the church Without giving up on the church or changing denominations or whatever it is that people do these days. Comment I really really appreciate. I heard people say I have Jesus that’s all I need. Right on! But I’m with you on that. We’re asked to do a lot more than just be with Jesus. He is our own personal God yes but he’s also everybody else who will believe in him yes so why not share it and to family talk about the church and the blessings of community, talk about the sacraments and the use of them and being ready to receive them when they’re available.❤

[@Chuck-qi8pw]

Father, I believe strong Catholics realize that most people fall short of Gods teaching. However, we must continue striving to follow Christ. We must finish the race. When a brother or sister is down, we are to stand beside them and lift them up. This includes our priests, layman’s, and deacons,etc. My son was wounded (not by Catholics) but someone in another denomination. Unfortunately, he left the church, but I continue to encourage him to try the Catholics out. He will be educating his daughter (my grand daughter) in a Catholic School. This is step one. A buddy of his told him how well his daughter was doing in a local Catholic school. I am excited because I attended Catholic. Schools.

[@Justhumbleme]

The Church Christ left us is Holy, i dont let any human ruin this for me. Saints were martyred for the Church. Amen.

[@annarosefedish8802]

I love your videos - I keep learning so much. Thank you Fr. Casey; God bless!

[@ewtam24]

Thank you Father!

[@angelaspielbusch1237]

Love your videos, father Casey thank you so much for all that you do❤

[@lauraalderson2674]

Benvenuto in Italia, Padre Casey!

[@ginalyncox]

I'm a lapsed Catholic. I never got confirmed with my CCD class because I graduated high school early to join the military. I got married in service to a divorced lutheran through the courthouse. No one ever told me he would need an annulment. I have more respect for the Catholic marriage preparation. He won’t go through the process. 😭 I’ve been trying to get confirmed since 2007 where I started then I was preparing for deployment. I feel lost.

[@s9grl]

God bless you. Read the story of St. Monica, notorious for her perseverance. Keep hanging on!

[@avemaria1014]

Ohh dear! I feel you! Don't give up, u can get help from any catholic priest nearby if u confide in him. above all, pray daily, especially the prayers of the rosary. Tell God freely how u wd wish to know Him more n serve Him. Try as never b4 to get closer to the mother of God, that lady is like a sign post pointing to God, the more you closely relate to her the more you get closer to God and the more Jesus loves u because u love His beloved mom. We continue to pray 4u n for each other. Viva Cristo Ray!

[@Nidhogg13]

I went to a non-denominational church once with a relative. The best word I could use to describe how I felt about it is "incomplete." I was less knowledgeable of the significant differences between Catholicism and protestantism at the time and was shocked when it was over and no communion had been offered.

[@amytheoptimist]

My goodness Fr Casey! Traveling is stressful enough as it is. Shooting a video at the same time is superhuman stuff! God bless you for all this work and He continue to strengthen you to create more content like this! Finally, my cheeks hurt from smiling throughout the whole video! I just realized that seeing priests and members of Holy Orders in the "wild" (regular everyday places like the airport) brings me lots of joy! 😂😂😂

[@carmenslade3656]

Fr. Casey, I agree with you 💯 Praying for you 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽 to continue the mission to bring back parishioners to our Catholic Faith ❤️

[@elmaffo]

If you are going anywhere near Verona, welcome! :D

[@ryanmcdougal]

Father Casey, great video as always but can we also talk about how eerily empty and quiet the international terminal at BWI is? Honestly it’s the perfect place to make KZbin videos!

[@carmenanico2786]

Thank you for your teachings so practical and so simple and clear even if we don't understand it all but someday with Jesus we will mean time persevere

[@avemaria1014]

Sure! Let us pray Rosary n go for mass; let's strive to live sacramental lives, especially penance. God in His mercy will surely help us do more. Viva Cristo ray. Ave Maria gratia plena...

[@rachybos]

Just curious on how you had all that filmed, considering passing through security and onto the plane? Did you have a camera person accompany through it all? You do a great job making many things very understandable. I'm thinking your sermons must be really good, too! Are any of them recorded?

[@BreakingInTheHabit]

I used a handheld camera and filmed myself along the way.

[@jackiegrant3972]

Y​@@BreakingInTheHabitFirstly I would like to say that I am a cradle Catholic struggling with my faith at the moment and usually take heart and comfort from your posts however, you speak about us having a choice between good and evil. Adults understand they have that choice and will make their decisions. But young children and babies don't have that understanding as yet. I would like to know where God is when a child or baby gets beaten, tortured and then murdered at the hands of its supposed carers. Are we supposed to be content with the answer that it is free will given by God, that gives an adult the choice to do these abhorrent things. Who protects the babies and children while adults are exercising their God given free will. Where is God for them?

[@kathebridges4736]

@@jackiegrant3972 I think we need to grieve, then do everything in our power to prevent it continuing I think the church teaches that those innocents go straight to heaven

[@SirPandaEsq]

As a lapsed Catholic, I gave up on the church in 2016, watching all of the hateful rhetoric being spoken by members of my church. Calling to eliminate immigrants and LGBT, telling me if I don't vote Republican I'm not a good Catholic. I couldn't do it. Im so happy to see there are good members of the church like you Fr Casy. Your channel at least gives me hope lol

[@user-lp3he2cy4u]

Don't worry. You can be Catholic and not vote Republican. Seeing all the religious hypocrisy at the RNC over the past few nights made me cringe.

[@BreakingInTheHabit]

Remember that the most divisive voices are the loudest but that doesn’t mean they are the majority or represent Church teaching. The majority of Catholics are nothing like you describe.

[@angelrogo]

Interesting. In Spain the Church says if you are not a woke conmunist, you are not a good Catholic.

[@raylouis7013]

As a Catholic growing up in Australia, leaders of the Church are not allowed to tell us how to vote (it caused massive issues in the 50s and 60s ...) the most they can do is to raise social issues and ask you to vote with your concious. I know a young priest who was reprimanded by our local Bishop (very gently, very mildly) for just rolling his eyes when a particular politician was mentioned at a public meeting. As someone who is related to that particular politician and has decided for my own sanity not to talk to her... I understand his feelings but he has a responsibility not to make his feelings known.

[@PNL-DJ-1]

@@raylouis7013- they are not supposed to tell us how to vote in the USA either. A bishop in East Texas was recently sacked for doing that. You are only to discuss issues.

[@GyorgyGezaMeszaros-l5i]

I guess if you've read my comments, you'd understand that I am a lapsed Catholic, probably even very lapsed, but I find you very interesting. I subscribed and look forward to a continuing education and dialogue!

[@Kaptnkrnch]

You mentioned general suffering at the beginning but i would ask a follow-up , what about the suffering of innocents? Children. Some of the suffering is so invisible or hidden (starving/torture in far away places) that it will never come to the light of day so can affect no greater change. What about this suffering?

[@drewidlifestyle7883]

Most, not all, of that invisible suffering as you put it is based in a worldwide issue where money has been placed before people. It’s more profitable to ship food to landfill than it is to feed a village out of the way. Torture can be caused by many things but comes from at its most basic level anger and hurt. The gospel is about love and healing. We can stop these injustices, it will take us time to spread the word to enough people to wipe out those hurts. But we must continue. God could wipe out suffering but in order to do it would have to take away free will. He can put a message into our heart and some of us are more open than others but until the person makes that choice to listen the world is as it is.

[@fedyno4reviews]

Suffering exists either way. Ask yourself this if everyone truly believed and followed the gospel would the world be a place with more or less suffering?

[@MelonLord44]

I'd say a couple reasons. One, suffering is a result of The Fall and our separation from God and people do evil things. Life sucks when you're not with Him. Two, suffering can be redemptive, and brings us closer to him -- both in how much we pray, and in uniting our suffering with His own on the cross. I hope this helped you and wasn't just annoying stuff you've already heard

[@Mr.T314]

Interesting point. Another point I have heard is the suffering of animals. What is the purpose there?

[@30Salmao]

The normal aswer to this problem is as follows: many evils come from man's free choice for evil. Many problems come from the evil in the heart of man. But there are the evil caused by nobody, like sickness, death and much other ways to natural pain and suffering. But then we must understand the alternatives in a realistic light. Imagine a world with no pain at all. The normal course to the human heart, as Adam and Eve did in Genesis, is to become vain or proudful and seek pleasure and power to himself. In the world of death and suffering is easier to man to repent and turn to goodness once more. You can imagine death as a transition between 2 existences. If you are catholic you belive in afterlife, so what the suffering of this world acounts for? It bring urgency and gravity to sin. Our moral dilemmas, our choices become important. Our second and eternal life is merely a result of the final choice for God or aginst Him. And without death we always follow the lucifer impulse to want to become gods. If pain and death is not the worst thing there are. If losing your soul, if becoming evil is the worst thing for you: all of this conversation flips.

[@pongtaala4763]

Watching from the philippines 😊

[@simplysableye6505]

Dear Casey, I have been thinking of converting to Catholicism for a long time, at least since I found God again last year. The more I learn about Catholicism the more I want to convert, but it seems inaccessible to me right now (mostly due to my family). I know you likely get this question often, but what can I do?

[@ecta9604]

Hi Fr Casey, As an atheist, I quite enjoy your videos. I hope you keep it up! I had a question for you (or anyone else who may have an answer). I guess I’m not quite understanding why being created gay and not living chastely is a particularly bad thing? Sure, it might be considered a sin, but isn’t swearing also sinful? And, despite the sinful nature of swearing, don’t people generally recognize it to be not too terrible in the grand scheme of things? Gay people loving one another fully seems to be even *less* harmful than swearing on the face of it - it actively strengthens their bonds and intimacy with one another, creates more love in the world, etc. If it wasn’t for the condemnation that exists in the Bible, it seems as though it would be an unmitigated good just as an infertile (say, due to a spinal injury inhibiting function) straight couple loving one another fully would be an unmitigated good. Maybe I’m misunderstanding here too though and an infertile straight couple ought to avoid or confess to sexual behavior because it can never result in reproduction? If swearing can sort of be dismissed (or maybe categorized) as not too serious in the grand scheme of things - not a mortal sin that needs to be confessed to, as I understand it - why shouldn’t gay folks loving one another fully be even less dire than swearing? EDIT: Also, kudos for consistently sticking up for gay folks in a way that lines up with your morals, despite the backlash you consistently receive. That’s pretty badass imo. Paladin moment.

[@annaskele628]

I was shocked to read about Fr Patrick Tuttle. Every time the air starts to clear, another one comes crashing down and we have to start all over again.

[@America-ev4rk]

I think these are great answers.

[@annagattellari85]

God be With you Fra Casey ❤️🙏🏻

[@TnOrchidguy]

Thank you, Father, thank you.

[@johnmarulewski6678]

Father Casey, thank you!

[@MiguelMangada]

I have learned a lot from you Father Casey that even if I am not knowledgeable about the Bible it is as if I have already enhanced my knowledge about th faith.

[@steampunkedbull]

As a lapsed Catholic myself, I am very happy you addressed these concerns candidly. One of my biggest hang ups is the rules/laws vs. Jesus question you brought up. I completely understand some rules are necessary, but I also do feel the church should consider a major review of all rules that were not given to us by Jesus or the Scriptures.

[@miguelpaivabezerra34]

Other rules are stabilished by Tradition or by necessity Example: Most dogmas came to exist Because people started believing in heresies

[@steampunkedbull]

@@miguelpaivabezerra34 it’s not the Dogmas that are the problem. My question is, does the church *need* to have an opinion or rule on everything?

[@miguelpaivabezerra34]

@@steampunkedbull Yes, The Church needs to have a teaching to every thing... We as Catholic Christians need to respond to The authority of The Church and live as Jesus says: in obedience to His authority. Why you ask? The Church was stabilished by Jesus on Peter to have authority over His flock of sheep. We need do try to be as Holy as we can with God's help and The Church's teaching helps us to do so

[@hazardsanctus]

@@steampunkedbull What specifically would you call into review? Would this be breaking with apostolic tradition?

[@BeWe1510]

I get where you are coming from but I don’t agree. Such a review would collide with the other question from the video about changing dogmas. If the church where to suddenly drop like half of its rules, people would wonder why they followed rules for their entire life only to now find out that they aren’t necessary. Rules and dogmas don’t need to be totally unchangable but we should be careful with big reforms as it weakens even the remaining rules. There is a reason for the existence of every rule and they are given by the church that Jesus gave the authority to do so. So even if one isn’t directly from the scriptures it still stems from Jesus.

[@Ellis-x9c]

Thank you for your time freind.

[@johnduffy9619]

Great camera work and editing!

[@jaedynruli]

I dont get why Jesus choosing 12 male disciples 2000 years ago means no woman can ever he priests. That just doesn't seem logical to me. Why does what happened 2000 years ago mean that is how we are supposed to live today. Not to mention, Peter was married, and we clearly dont allow that (with few exceptions). I dont see anywhere where Jesus directly states that only men can be priests. I feel like the Church is making a big leap in assumption that is what Jesus wants purely based on the fact his 12 disciples were male.

[@marlasiegel3725]

Thank you! I've never fully understood that either, especially as certain biblical concepts and precepts which seem a lot less ambiguous than this one have been reevaluated in terms of how they should or shouldn't be applied in modern times. I do know that Catholics' views on women do deter a lot of us from fully committing to the Church.

[@ForceRecon112]

This is my viewpoint on it, and I may not be right, but this is how I’ve been able to articulate it. Just as the husband is the leader and the priest of his household, just as Christ is the head of the church and the bride of Christ is the church So then, the priests are males to imitate Christ within the church. That’s how I always understood it at least. Some people would probably make the argument of emotional versus rational thought, but that doesn’t apply to all men and women.

[@user-lp3he2cy4u]

I think people may be forgetting that nuns have a huge part to play in our faith. Look at Mother Angelica. She evangelized by helping to start EWTN. Just because women can't perform Mass doesn't mean they can't teach the faith in another way.

[@jaedynruli]

@ForceRecon112 I guess I feel like this implies men are closer to Christ than women are, solely for being male. I also feel like this reinforces archaic gender roles that only men can be 'leaders of the household' when both parents should be equal in leadership (in my opinion.... but I guess catholics have an issue with that idea to).

[@jaedynruli]

@@user-lp3he2cy4u I actually don't know much about nuns at all. I should look into it more. Thank you!

[@jimconnell8994]

Blessings from Scotland 🙏

[@OttoKreml]

I think my problem is just how little of the original practice remains. You walk into a orthodox church and you get such a sense of the early church. Even the order, and the recitations, and the design of the building, each little thing is just better.

[@famvids9627]

There are some things that the orthodox church does better for sure. But as someone who came from the orthodox church and came into the Catholic Church, there's a lot of things that the orthodox church gets wrong that the Catholic Church does a really good job

[@OttoKreml]

@@famvids9627 To be honest I can hardly set foot in a catholic church anymore. There's only one I go to where I really feel God, and it's on the other side of my city. I can't even bring myself to go to the one closest to me. It just feels gross. I'm in a strange position where I believe that the orthodox split was illegitimate, and yet the orthodox are much doctrinally closer to correct than catholicism. And a lot of really important catholic practices got dumped in the 60s, like the confessional booth.

[@annb9029]

Do you have a Byzantine right Catholic Church near by

[@erichodge567]

This was an excellent video.

[@the9thlion]

Protestant here, we have communion! I do agree you guys do a better job though in making communion a holy event, but I also think there is room for “casual communion” without all the fan fair, like the early church did with their love feasts.

[@gustafbstrom]

Straight to the point answers on tough questions. Love it. Peace, brother.

[@meanchoolee5845]

Thank you Father

[@DT-kx4jt]

Please pray for church in Europe. We don’t have many priests and it’s becoming so difficult to be christian as a young adult. We are so struggling

[@avemaria1014]

True. Rosary daily. She's the mother and mentor of piests. She will surely do the needful if we pray and try to live accordance the sacraments

[@siyg]

The airport background is what finally pushed me to watch this video :)

[@ossier2796]

The non denominational churches don’t have the sacraments and for me that’s a big deal and I know where I belong.

[@Yohanan1030]

Closed communion is so ancient, referenced clearly in the Didache (the oldest non biblical Christian document in existence, older than some of the Gospel). The language used is quite harsh but clear, "do not give what is Holy to the dogs."

[@SimplyZeyma]

I love that you understood how engaging and welcoming non-denominational churches are (in my experience, that has lacked in the Catholic Church). I understand how you mention lacking the Eucharist, but to many ex-Catholics (like myself), following a lot of rules and having to go to confession (which can be traumatic with some priests) just to be considered “worthy” and “in a state of grace” isn’t really feasible anyways.

[@colinchong3141]

Hello Father Casey, thank you for your responses to the questions! I hope you will have a chance to visit Assisi, the home town of St Francis!

[@chromerabbit]

Great video mate. Good work!

[@Bestbuddybob]

Friday social media fasting would be a hardship and sacrifice for many.

[@MagdusiaPoProstu]

Well done Brother Casey. Pax et bonum. 🌱🙏

[@l.w.febock6861]

Peace, wonderful video! From a Moravian brother.

[@Gabrielwachter672]

I have a question. Having taken a vow of poverty... would it be impossible for you to temporarily become a tent maker like the Apostle Paul and entirely support yourself making and selling tents? Funny question, I know. I was just curious if the path of the Apostle Paul, wandering the earth, planting churches and almost entirely supporting himself by making tents up until he was imprisoned. If that path is entirely closed to the Franciscan order.

[@SolidSnake0]

So what you say about the removing of the fast from meat at Vatican II sounds good in theory, but in practice it really has lead to nothing but nobody observing any kind of fast at all in the Catholic Church. I was a Catholic for most of my life. Never fasted, was never told to fast. Never saw anyone talk about fasting. As an Orthodox we all fast 2 days a week and people do keep that fast. So I think the Friday fast was good. You guys should bring it back. In fact, you guys should bring back the twice a week fast the apostles instituted in the didache. Fasting is such an important part of asceticism. We have a shared saint, John Climacus, who wrote a book called The Ladder of Divine Ascent, who talks much about how many temptations can be overcome through the combination of prayer and fasting.

[@BreakingInTheHabit]

No arguments here.

[@bokkebokke7]

Lapsed convert and I ultimately left because of the lack of community support I received from my peers. Went from going to Mass 6 days a week, active in numerous ministries, and an even active prayer life. I miss it, but for reasons I will never understand, I never got the support I needed.

[@libertycosworth8675]

Well done Fr. Casey. I really appreciate your empathic, but no nonsense responses to concerns of those who have become separated from from the Church, and to some extent are choosing to separate themselves from God too. Many blame God for the failings of our human failings on earth, forgetting that Jesus died on the cross for the very purpose of reuniting us with the Father and giving us a path to heaven. May Jesus' Peace continue to be with you Fr. Casey.

[@PenelopeFrank]

Hope you have a beautiful experience in Italy.

[@ravenrozze3]

I am not baptized Catholic. I was baptized in a Celtic evensong service that I attended for several years. I pray the rosary and yes, have downloaded the hallow app. If I were to walk up to Jesus' table seeking full communion with Him and my sisters and brothers in Christ, the Savior I know would not turn me nor anyone away that wanted to know Him. I see Him smiling with open arms to all that wanted to partake of the Sacrament. That is the only thing I wish, from all that you spoke on, to be different. To feel as if I am not good enough or worthy of taking communion in a Catholic church, even though I am a devoted baptized Christian, hurts my soul.

[@avemaria1014]

Ohh dear! I feel you. Please go to any priest around and share with him all this n more..just be free, am sure they will guide you to the right path. We all need sacrament of reconciliation/ penance to be worthy to participate in the great feast of holy communion, may the mother of God and our mother, who is mother of good counsel guide n direct you to Christ Jesus my dear! Love and blessings ❤

[@ravenrozze3]

@@avemaria1014 Thank you for your kind and sweet response. I have wanted to speak with a priest for a long time now, but I've been hesitant. At the last church I attended, the reverend often acted as if people needing direct guidance were a bother. Once, he asked how I was doing, and I honestly replied that things had been quite rough lately. I wanted to ask if he could schedule time to speak with me as I really needed guidance, but before I could say anything more, he turned away and said, "Yeah, well, things are rough for a lot of people." I walked away feeling ashamed and lonelier than ever in a place where I should have felt most welcomed, loved, and befriended by my brothers and sisters. I share this to explain my fear of a priest not taking my concerns seriously or giving me just five minutes before needing to bustle off. These have been my experiences at other churches. I take my faith very seriously and haven't found a place that feels as deeply about it as I do. That's why I am drawn to the Catholic and Orthodox churches.

[@pineapplesoda]

have a lovely trip!

[@RetiredRhetoricalWarhorse]

Point of clarification: Is there no place for queer people in the catholic church or do people just don't like to be told that they should not give in to their instincts and sin? HUGE difference there. Nobody in our individual-minded Zeitgeist wants to hear this, sure, but telling you what you're doing is wrong is not the same as casting you out.

[@avemaria1014]

Actually catholic church is for all... universal and apostolic. Anyone, everyone. One must get the sacraments which our Lord instituted Himself and practice them regularly otherwise it wd loose meaning. Have a one on one with a catholic priest to address your concerns better please my dear. Pray the prayers of the rosary daily it keeps us closer to God and spiritually alert. Love and blessings! Shalom.

[@sackett68]

Hi father. I want to join the church. But I don't have the time to go to RCIA classes. I've already studied church history and the Catechism and I believe the Catholic church is the one true church. So basically I'm already converted. I pray the rosary everyday and attend mass. But can't take part in the eucharistic etc. Is there a way I can join without the RCIA program?

[@stananders2333]

There is supposed to be, talk with your pastor and he should be able to help you, otherwise go ask the bishop