Open Forum

The callers choose the topics during Open Forum, peppering our guests with questions on every aspect of Catholic life and faith, the moral life, and even philosophical topics that touch on general religious belief.

Questions Covered:

• If a Catholic priest found himself in a situation where he didn’t have the proper vestments, altar bread, or liturgy book available, would it be acceptable to borrow from the Eastern rite for these materials? 
• Are extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion allowed to give out a blessing in the communion line?
• In a private Bible Study, what are best practices or questions to best help reflect on the passages in meaningful way?
• When I try to talk to people in the 15-mid 30’s age range about God, they don’t believe that the Bible is authentic. Their teachers seem to be teaching that the Bible is irrelevant because of its discrepancies. I don’t know how to answer the youth that are falling away for this reason.
• I’ve used different natural and homeopathic remedies before. They worked and as far as I could tell and were within Church teaching. My new nutritionist is recommending Bach flower remedies. Many say this is New Age. She is a Christian doctor. I just want to hear your opinion on whether or not I should be using these.
• I attended a parish that keeps the tabernacle in a back room not attached to the main church. They call it a chapel, but it is not attached to where the Mass is held. Why would they do this and is it allowed?
• If someone dies in a state of mortal sin and someone said the chaplet over them prior over them prior to their death, would they be saved?
• When did the church start being called “Catholic”?
• I have had moments when I am praying and start crying. What does this mean? What are your thoughts?