We recently had a question from a reader who wonders if it’s okay to use Chinese spoon massage.
Category Archives: Miscellaneous
Can the Shemittah Predict the Future?
We recently had a question about the Shemittah, the Jewish sabbatical year that occurs every seven years, and whether or not it is based in numerology or divination.
Study: Goth Teens More Likely to Self-Harm
A new study from UK researchers has found that teens who become engrossed in the Goth subculture are three times more likely to suffer from depression, and five times more likely to self-harm.
A Seer Named Charlie Johnston
MF writes: “Do you have any information on a supposed Catholic SEER named Charlie Johnston? His name and dire coming vision of the year 2017 was shared with me. His message is dark and dire and honestly frightening. I wanted to see if there was any reliable information form the Church and other credible individuals about Mr. Johnston and his visions.”
Class Dojo App Not Connected to Religion
JL writes: “I am curious about a behavioral system currently used at our Catholic school. It is a Dojo system that has the child create an avatar-monster. Every time they are on task, the teacher rewards or removes points from your avatar with her computer. Nth entire class can see this on a computer screen. The system seems benign, but if you look closely at the description their are hints of both the Hindu and Asian faiths incorporated. Please research and let me know.”
Birth Order Theory Not a New Age Idea
LH asks: “Is the philosophy of “Birth Order” and it’s effect on how we behave New Age?”
Does the Claddagh Ring Have Occult Origins?
EE writes: “I would be very grateful if you could help me with a question. My boyfriend and I want to get married. We are both Spanish but we share a nice bond with Ireland due to several reasons. My boyfriend would like to give me a Claddagh wedding ring but I am not sure if it´s an occult symbol. I may sound a bit simplistic, I know the history behind it, and I know it´s very popular in Ireland. The problem is that I have dwelt in the occult a long time ago and I do not want anything to do with it again. Could you please help me and confirm whether or not is an occult symbol?”
Color Runs Are Not What They Appear to Be
We’ve had some questions about the latest rage in fitness/charity events such as The Color Run and Color Me Rad events. Are they really based upon a Hindu tradition and what is their connection to the New Age? And is it true that they only donate a fraction of their proceeds to the charities they are supposed to be fundraising for?
Catholics and the Purpose-Driven Life
MCA writes: “I looked for any information about The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren on the website and nothing came up. Do you have any comments regarding the appropriateness for Catholics who may want to read this book?”
Fellow Physicians Want Dr. Oz to Resign
The country’s best known doctor and New Age guru, Dr. Mehmet Oz, may be in a battle for his professional life as a group of doctors pressure Columbia University Hospital to remove him from his prestigious position because of his endorsement of “quack treatments and cures in the interest of financial gain.”
