LD asks: “My husband and I are wondering what you can tell us about the Hamsa Hand? What’s the difference between this and a blessed object? ”
Category Archives: Superstition
Do Novenas Have to be Recited Perfectly?
SM writes: “I have a friend who insists that every word of a prayer novena has to be said correctly, or you have to start all over. Is this true?”
Does the Use of Holly Come From the Druids?
While it’s true that the Druids once believed holly had magical powers, the use of this ancient evergreen on special occasions does not derive from any group in particular.
What’s Wrong With Wearing an Italian Horn?
AD asks: “Do you have any information on the Italian horn? I thought I heard it had an occult connection.”
Are Birthstones New Age?
(Image by Bryce Edwards, cc-by-2.0, Wikimedia Commons)
MH writes: “I’m wondering if you would know if there is any new age connection to birthstones? I’m from Ireland and wanted to get my niece a ring for her eighteenth birthday and she wants a birthstone ring. I’m not certain if there is any new age association. I would really appreciate it if you could answer this question.”
Today’s Charm Bracelet Has a Superstitious Past
CS writes: “My wife’s mother recently passed away after a long terrible bout with MS. Prior to her being debilitated with this disease, my wife tells me that she was into new age type beliefs. . .
How Astrologers Sell Us the Stars
For the third time this year, the planet Mercury has gone into retrograde and once again, the internet astrologers are trying to outdo one another with dire warnings about how this cosmological event can wreak havoc on planet Earth. Too bad it’s nothing but hype to sell natal charts and good luck charms.
What to Do About Those Email Prayer Chains
MI writes: “I don’t feel comfortable with this type of prayer request [that I received today]. ‘We are doing an Intercession of 1000 prayers for those people with cancer. Say the prayer and pass it to 10 people, Let me know if you cannot, so that we do not break this Intercession.’ Am I wrong? Isn’t it basically a chain letter. Would you participate? Looking forward to your thoughts!”
Sprinkling Rice at Shrines: Is it Christian?
Photo by Darío Méndez on Unsplash
HL writes: “A parishioner at our parish has been noticing rice being scattered at our shrine of the Holy Innocents, in front of the statue of our patron saint, and on the hand rail leading to the rectory. I’m wondering if there’s any foul play involving occultic practices. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.”
Can a Witch’s Ball be Used for Decoration?
DO asks: “What is a witch ball? Is it an object of the occult? Can it cause harm if used as a decoration innocently? Is it related to the glass yard ornaments called ‘gazing balls’?”
