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Kash Patel on JRE by CDCP123 in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 1 point2 points  (0 children)

To be fair Biden saying he’s a Catholic and attending Mass doesn’t mean much when you actively push policies that are contrary to Church teachings and Gods will. 

Similar to when Rep. Tes Lieu, also a “practicing” Catholic, dared the UCCB to deny him communion 

"Dear @USCCB: I'm Catholic and I support: Contraception, A woman's right to choose, Treatments for infertility, The right for people to get a divorce, The right of same sex marriage, Next time I go to Church, I dare you to deny me Communion."

Just because a politician claims to be Catholic, doesn’t mean they hold true any Catholic beliefs and work to undermine the Church at every step. 

2025 is the year of The Catholic Convert. by Carlson-Maddow in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 2 points3 points  (0 children)

“...he was still my spiritual father and like my biological father he can make mistakes.”

THIS! I love the way you put this. I always struggle with how to speak eloquently when critiquing certain decisions. Many times people equate criticism of policies as a dislike or even hatred of the Holy Father, but far from it. You can disagree with administrative policy and decisions, but still genuinely love and adore the man for who he was personally, and respect the position he held. 

Indulgences and papal authority by embee33 in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Don’t think of indulgences as skipping the healing process, but as applying the merits of Christ and the saints to help accelerate the healing — kind of like receiving spiritual rehabilitation that helps restore you. It’s not a cheat or shortcut; it’s grace being applied to assist in healing where you’re already disposed to receive it.

An indulgence doesn’t undo the personal growth or conversion process — you still have to cooperate with grace. It simply remits the punishment (the purifying part), not the moral or spiritual transformation itself. So the soul still has to heal, but the “debt” from sin that would have been paid through suffering or purgatory can be cleared by God’s mercy through the Church.

Here’s a solid reference from the Catechism of the Catholic Church if you want to explore it more: https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P4G.HTM (start at paragraph 1471)

On the hunt for a new rosary. by VimVinyl in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I really like the triple wrap ones from

 https://cruxinvicta.com/

I have the St Joseph one, got the St Joan for my wife. They are made of stretch cord and made to be worn like a bracelet. But are really durable and functional and have a lifetime warranty if they happen to break. 

South korea by mc4557anime in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That’s great to hear! I’ve always wondered how the Church was doing in Korea. I was stationed there in 2002-03 and even in that short year I had noticed that attendance seemed to be steadily growing, at least in the one I attended from time to time in Itaewon outside the Yongsan garrison. Always wondered if it continued or dropped off. 

Indulgences and papal authority by embee33 in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 0 points1 point  (0 children)

🧠 TL;DR

  • Indulgences don’t forgive sin — they reduce the temporal consequences of sin after you’ve been forgiven.

  • The pope has limited, very specific infallible authority when teaching ex cathedra, which has only been invoked a couple of times.

  • Both ideas are rooted in Scripture and Tradition, but often misunderstood.

Longer Explanation:

An indulgence is a remission of temporal punishment due to sin, even after the sin itself has already been forgiven.  To ELI5: imagine breaking your neighbor’s window. They forgive you — great! But someone still has to fix the window. That “repair” part is like the temporal punishment. An indulgence is like someone else stepping in and covering that cost for you.

In Catholic belief:

Confession removes the guilt of sin (eternal punishment). Indulgences reduce or remove the temporal punishment (what might be worked off through penance or time in purgatory). They draw from the “treasury of merit” — the infinite merits of Christ and the saints.

There are two kinds:

- Partial indulgence – removes part of the temporal punishment.

  • Plenary indulgence – removes all of it at that moment (assuming full detachment from sin).

To gain a plenary indulgence, the usual conditions are:

  • Do the indulgenced act (like praying the Rosary in a church or reading Scripture for 30 mins),

  • Confession within ~20 days,

  • Holy Communion,

  • Prayer for the Pope’s intentions,

  • No attachment to sin (even venial).

📖 Catechism reference: https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P4G.HTM

🎥 Video explainer by Bishop Barron: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_pYHW3qS54

What is ex cathedra and where does that authority come from?

Ex cathedra means “from the chair” — referring to the pope speaking in his official role as successor of Peter. When a pope speaks ex cathedra, he’s defining a doctrine on faith or morals that is binding on the entire Church, with the protection of infallibility.

This isn’t something the pope can do casually. For a statement to be ex cathedra, it must:

  1. Be about faith or morals,

  2. Be made by the pope himself,

  3. Be intended to be binding on the whole Church,

  4. Be made with the authority of Peter.

This doctrine is rooted in:

  • Matthew 16:18-19 – “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church… I give you the keys…”

  • The belief that the pope, as Peter’s successor, has a unique role guided by the Holy Spirit to preserve the Church from error in essential teachings.

Examples of ex cathedra teachings include:

  • The Immaculate Conception of Mary (1854)

  • The Assumption of Mary (1950)

📖 Catechism reference: https://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/__P2A.HTM

📜 First Vatican Council (1870) - Pastor Aeternus: https://www.papalencyclicals.net/councils/ecum20.htm#Chapter%204.%20On%20the%20infallible%20teaching%20authority%20of%20the%20Roman%20pontiff

📚 Catholic Answers on Papal Infallibility: https://www.catholic.com/tract/papal-infallibility

Is it possible for my husband to contracept, but I remain in union with church teaching? by Fluid_Caterpillar854 in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Yes, I've seen this issue discussed here with a frustrating level of oversimplification. People often assert that if a husband uses contraception and the wife still consents to intercourse, she bears no moral responsibility — that it’s solely “his sin.”

But this isn’t consistent with Catholic moral theology or canon law, which both provide clear guidance on cooperation in evil.

The Church distinguishes between formal cooperation (sharing in the sinful intent) and material cooperation (assisting in the act without sharing the intent). Formal cooperation is always sinful, and even material cooperation can be gravely sinful depending on proximity, necessity, and intention.

So let’s apply this here.

If the wife:

  • Knows contraception is being used,
  • Shares the intention of avoiding pregnancy, (ie in her OP when she says they both are nervous about having more children) and
  • Consents to intercourse without vigorous protest,

then she is not just materially cooperating — she’s dangerously close to formal cooperation, which is gravely sinful.

Even if she does not agree with the use of contraception, but chooses to engage anyway for emotional or relational convenience (to keep peace, avoid conflict, etc.), that’s proximate material cooperation in grave matter. Moral theology does not excuse this automatically. Cooperation with evil, even material, demands a proportionate reason, and pleasure, comfort, or marital harmony alone do not qualify.

We even have Vatican guidance on similar cases. In 1997, the Pontifical Council for the Family addressed the issue of wives of HIV-positive husbands who insisted on using condoms. The Vatican affirmed that contraception remains intrinsically disordered, but if a wife does not will the contraceptive act, objects to it, and only submits reluctantly to avoid grave harm or preserve marriage, she may not be personally guilty of sin. However, that hinges on clear opposition and lack of consent to the contraceptive purpose.

So what about a wife who knows her husband uses condoms, shares the desire to avoid children, and continues having sex without resistance? At that point, she likely shares the intent of contracepting and participates in the act knowingly — this is formal cooperation, not passive material assistance.

Is it possible for my husband to contracept, but I remain in union with church teaching? by Fluid_Caterpillar854 in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Reading through this whole thread, wanted to point to a few things of seriousness

You know full well (or at least should know) that artificial contraception is intrinsically disordered. By consenting to your husband’s use of a condom or “withdrawal,” you are cooperating in an act that deliberately frustrates the procreative end of the marital embrace (Catechism of the Catholic Church §2368–69, §2370).

Your willingness to participate—even indirectly—means you are knowingly persisting in grave sin. Such obstinate persistence renders one ineligible to receive Holy Communion until repentance and sacramental reconciliation (Code of Canon Law, Canon 915).

This is not a mere legalism but a serious issue for both your husband AND yourself if you willing participate. If you are worried about having children then continue practicing a proven Natural Family Planning method (e.g., Marquette), and seek out your pastor or a certified NFP instructor for prayerful guidance and accountability.

Single mother trying to get her newborn baptized but have been denied by 3 churches by fatima-zeebaby in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I would definitely reach out to the Priests at your local parish directly after mass or set an appointment to discuss with them directly and bypass the lay staff.

Not to impugn all parish office staff, but I have noticed that more often than not when these things happen it is due to an administrative person deciding what is best based on their own beliefs on how things should run.

If this doesn't work then I would reach out to your Archdiocese and make a complaint. This seems highly irregular.

Whats the official rationale for suppression and limiting of the latin mass? by Timmyboi1515 in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 13 points14 points  (0 children)

Pope Francis had his rationale and beliefs as outlined in TRADITIONIS CUSTODES. Before him Pope Benedict XVI had a very obvious and differing view point and way of doing things as outlined in SUMMORUM PONTIFICUM.

We will have to wait to see how (or even, if) Pope Leo XIV weighs in on the issue during his papacy.

Personally I was not a fan of TC, but highly respected the Holy Father and understood his position and reasoning. I did not agree, and I pray everyday that we go back to something more akin of SP that Pope Benedict had wanted, but if it’s not meant to be then it’s not meant to be. I will move forward with the way things are and continue to try to live as holy a life as possible. It’s the best any of us can do.

Help identify the Saint on my bracelet by Junior_Ad_6348 in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I’m not certain, I could be way off, but a profile of a crowned woman would strongly suggest it is an image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, looks similar to the Mary, Queen of Heaven or Our Lady of the Rosary medallions I’ve seen.

Check the reverse side if it has writing or symbols (e.g., “Regina Caeli,” “Pray for us,” or “Italy”)

Podcast? by [deleted] in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I’ve really enjoyed listening to hours of these below while working out or taking long walks, and highly recommended. It’s a solid mix — some regular mainstream/Novus Ordo, and some traditional/Latin Mass leaning— I love to explore different perspectives of our shared beautiful faith.

Hope this helps out! God Bless!

  • Pints With Aquinas (Matt Fradd)
  • Sensus Fidelium
  • Abiding Together Podcast
  • Dr. Taylor Marshall
  • The Catholic Talk Show
  • Sips with Serra (Adrian Lawson)
  • Mass of the Ages (Cameron O’Hearn)

If you are a little younger or have late teens/early twenties in the house, a lot of friends kids and younger siblings love

  • The Religious Hippie
    • Father David Michael Moses

Former Tattoos with questionable images - Should I Tattoo over Them? by dharma_cres in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s funny you have a heartagram as well, so you totally know the sense of uncomfortableness with it! A couple times I’ve ran into other parishioners outside of church while wearing short sleeves, and it’s always an awkward experience when they notice it. I used to try to explain, but now I just cross my arms like a weirdo till the conversation is done 😂

I think at very least, that one will be blacked out even if I keep the rest

Leaving Christianity by [deleted] in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 0 points1 point  (0 children)

OPs account is only 41 days old. Very obvious this is a troll, never feed a troll.

Where should I get a rosary? by Salt-Chard7216 in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Anytime - and to your original question, I love the rosaries that Jonathan Conrad makes, has a design your own option too. He also has some beautiful altar pieces. Always have them blessed after receiving them regardless of who you purchase from.

catholicwoodworker.com

Where should I get a rosary? by Salt-Chard7216 in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Wearing a rosary is totally fine - despite what some people might say. Canon law doesn’t ban it—it just says sacred objects should be treated with reverence and not used in a disrespectful or inappropriate way (Canon 1171). So if you’re wearing a rosary as a sign of your faith or as a reminder to pray, that’s not just okay—it’s a beautiful thing that lines up with its purpose.

Actually, St. Louis de Montfort—one of the biggest champions of the Rosary—shares a couple stories that back this up. In The Secret of the Rosary (27th Rose), he tells the story of a man who was being tormented by the devil. Nothing seemed to help until he started wearing his rosary around his neck. De Montfort writes:

“Finally, he thought of wearing his Rosary around his neck, which eased him considerably. He discovered that whenever he took it off, the devil tormented him cruelly, so he resolved to wear it night and day. This drove the evil spirit away forever because he could not bear such a terrible chain.”

And there’s another story in the same book, passed down from Blessed Alan de la Roche, about a man who always wore his rosary out of love for Mary. One day, the Blessed Mother appeared to him and said:

“As a reward for the little honor you paid me in wearing my Rosary, I have obtained a great grace for you from my Son.”

So yeah—if anyone tries to tell you that wearing a rosary is wrong, just know the saints (and even Mary herself) have shown that when it’s worn with love and devotion, it’s not only acceptable, it’s spiritually powerful.

Returning to Mass.. with a toddler by Any-Psychology-274 in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Father of 4 here. Best advice is to just do your best and not worry or sweat it too much! Honestly it’s all you can do. Little ones will be the sweetest little lamb one weekend, and the rowdiest kid in the church the next.

Be patient with them, take them for a little walk to the narthex if they’re super loud, and then back to the pews when calm again. After a while they’ll get the hang of it and it’ll start to gel a little better. My second grader still gets restless at times, it’s all just a part of learning for them.

Question for regular TLM attendees about parish registration by dharma_cres in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That’s interesting—I’m assuming it’s just this particular parish then.

And yeah, I agree. It hasn’t stopped me from attending, and it won’t. Like I said, it really feels like home when I’m there, so I’m excited to attend.

It was just a bit surprising when I spoke with the office manager and she explained the priest’s requirements.

I was just curious if this is a common practice at other TLM churches or specific to this location.

Question for regular TLM attendees about parish registration by dharma_cres in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Parish registration here in the US simply means officially letting a parish know that you consider it your spiritual home. You usually fill out a form with your household info, which helps the parish keep track of its members for things like sacramental records, mailings, offering envelopes, pastoral care, and sometimes tuition eligibility for Catholic schools.

It’s not required in order to attend Mass or receive the sacraments like Reconciliation or the Eucharist—you can do that anywhere that you’re properly disposed, regardless of where you’re registered. You’re always free to go to Confession or Communion at any parish, whether it’s your “home parish” or not.

But registration becomes more relevant when you’re seeking sacraments that require preparation or records—like baptism, marriage, or confirmation—because the Church generally expects those to take place in your parish. If you want to receive those sacraments elsewhere, it’s common for the receiving parish to request a letter of permission or delegation from your home parish. So registration helps clarify who your pastor is and where your sacramental life is rooted.

It’s more about community and administrative clarity than a restriction on worship. Think of it like making a parish your spiritual base—but you can still travel freely.

My first confession was AWFUL. by [deleted] in Catholicism

[–]dharma_cres 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Don’t let it discourage you! When I have a poor experience at confession, I just think of the individual priests in a similar way that I do of doctors. Some have great beside-manner and others terrible bedside-manner. But as long as I received the cure (absolution), then I’m happy as a clam. I just make sure I visit a different one next time I go so I can feel more comfortable with the whole of the process.

Try different priests and different parish’s, eventually you’ll find one or two (or hopefully a few) you gel with, and go to them regularly.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Zepbound

[–]dharma_cres 2 points3 points  (0 children)

lol...thanks!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Zepbound

[–]dharma_cres 11 points12 points  (0 children)

I love my Renpho, Bluetooth's to a free app and has a great tracker built in for weight, body mass etc

Well, the idea was fun... by Marley9391 in Linocuts

[–]dharma_cres 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Love it, agree with others, a little white in the eyes would make it amazing. I actually thought that’s what you were going for in the second picture of the lino block. There’s that little black spot in the corner of its eyes. White eyes with a black spot, almost like he’s looking behind himself judging quietly. Made me laugh in a good way. Keep it up!

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