Jimmy Akin, a senior apologist and author with expertise in Catholicism, tackles a variety of intriguing questions. He discusses the title 'Holy Father' for the pope and reflects on what faith means personally. Listeners dive into the ethics of music with profanity, the appropriateness of going shoeless at church, and the significance of wearing veils during Mass. Akin also navigates moral dilemmas, including how to approach family members using abortifacient birth control and the implications of papal infallibility.
The title 'Holy Father' for the Pope reflects a theological understanding of shared holiness, emphasizing spiritual fatherhood rather than divine equivalence.
The discussion on women wearing veils during Mass highlights individual choice and respect for tradition, clarifying that it is not a contemporary obligation.
Deep dives
The Nature of Exorcism
Exorcism is explored through the examination of its historical and contemporary context, particularly focusing on the two rites recognized by the Church. The first rite was established in 1614 and is used for traditional exorcisms, while the other was revised in 1998 to reflect modern understanding and sensibilities. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding when these rites can be performed, outlining specific criteria that exorcists must follow. Additionally, the podcast delves into varied theories surrounding the causes of demonic possession and how different interpretations of the rites support or undermine those theories.
The Role of the Pope as Holy Father
The podcast addresses the title 'Holy Father' for the Pope, clarifying that while only God is fully holy, Christians can still be recognized as holy through their relationship with Him. The conversation notes that the term is often used to convey a sense of spiritual fatherhood and the Church’s acknowledgment of holiness in its leaders. This includes understanding biblical references where individuals are called 'holy ones' or 'saints,' providing context for why the Pope can bear such a title despite the exclusive holiness of God. The discussion underscores that the use of such titles is based on a theological understanding of shared holiness rather than an assertion of divine equivalence.
Wearing Veils in Church
The practice of women wearing veils during Mass is discussed, highlighting it as a beautiful tradition rather than a requirement of Christian practice today. Historically, head coverings were mandated in St. Paul's time, but the Church no longer considers it obligatory in modern culture due to its changed significance. The podcast supports the practice for those who choose it while affirming that real respect for individual choice is paramount; women who prefer not to wear veils should not be judged. This reflects a broader understanding of the Church's views on custom, respect, and personal expression in worship.
Understanding Cooperation with Evil
The complexities of cooperating with evil, particularly in relation to consuming media or supporting artists who produce both good and bad content, are analyzed. The discussion articulates that it is possible to engage with certain forms of media while not endorsing the negative aspects, given that the individual’s action itself is not sinful. Comparisons are made to everyday situations, such as buying dinner, illustrating that it is often impossible to avoid all evil in a fallen world. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of balancing enjoyment and moral responsibilities, allowing individuals to participate in good without being accountable for the potential misuse of their support by others.
Question Covered:
05:11 – Why do we address the pope as holy father?
07:38 – Is it ok for us to not wear shoes at Church?
14:30 – What does the Catholic faith mean to you?
17:30 – What explains Skinwalker Ranch? Have we ever been visited by extratempestrials?
23:29 – Is listening to music with profanity cooperating with evil?
35:28 – What are your thoughts on wearing veils at mass?
37:03 – My brother is using abortifacient birth control, how can I approach this situation?
43:43 – What’s a good amount of prayers to pray a day?
45:38 – What would happen if the pope declared something ex cathedra that was clearly heretical?
50:28 – Why do some masses not give the precious blood historically?
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