We have received numerous inquiries from readers who wonder why our blogs on New Age and alternative health practices seem to put so much emphasis on science. Shouldn't they based on Catholic teaching?

Basing our opinions on alternative health practices on science IS Catholic teaching.

Even though faith is indeed above science, the Catechism teaches that "there can never be any real discrepancy between faith and reason."

It goes on to say that "since the same God who reveals mysteries and infuses faith has bestowed the light of reason on the human mind, God cannot deny himself, nor can truth ever contradict truth.

"Consequently, methodical research in all branches of knowledge, provided it is carried out in a truly scientific manner and does not override moral laws, can never conflict with the faith, because the things of the world and the things of faith derive from the same God.

"The humble and persevering investigator of the secrets of nature is being led, as it were, by the hand of God in spite of himself, for it is God, the conserver of all things, who made them what they are" [No. 159].

This is why we don't accept personal testimonies as a reason why people should use untested alternatives, no matter how promising they believe these methods might be. As a result, we're often accused of being biased and judgmental simply because we do as our faith teaches us to do - be humble and persevering investigators of the secrets of nature - confident that we are being led by the God we adore.

Click here for more information on Catholic teaching concerning the use of alternatives.