Can We Wear Native American Symbols?

LR writes: “A First Nation person told me that, although a lot of native Christian people use native art (totem poles, dances to the spirit world, symbols of eagles, ravens, whales, wolf) etc., these are not of God, not sanctioned by God and should be avoided (and burned if you have them). She said these represent old pagan beliefs (God is all creation, when a raven speaks to you it is sharing of creation). Is there a problem wearing a sweater with a large eagle native form on the clothes, and such?”

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Praydreaming is Not New Age

AL writes: “I am sending this article from www.americancatholic.org for your discernment. Fr. Mark’s use of the word praydream sounds a little like New Age.  I have studied from Fr. Timothy Gallagher’s Discernment of Spirits book and listened to his teachings which I believe are very informative. I would like to know what your discernment is of this approach to discernment.”

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The Miraculous According to Sid Roth

SA writes: “I have Catholic friends who faithfully view Sid Roth:It’s Supernatural.  I have watched the show myself and while Mr. Roth may have good intentions, I find the whole thing simply ‘entertaining’.  My Catholic friends were upset when I stated that I thought it was a waste of time to view this program.  There is no way to verify the supernatural encounters his guests have, let alone determine that they are from the Holy Spirit.  Of course, each guest has a series of DVDs to sell to teach viewers how to perform deliverance etc.  What is your opinion?”

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Dr. Zaslove and the Science of Spirituality

The next time you visit your local library, keep your eyes open. They’re not always pushing safe and/or appropriate subjects. For instance, JM, one of our regular blog readers, commented on how her local library was handing out flyers to children hawking the latest Twilight movie, Eclipse. They were also handing out flyers for a presentation by Dr. Zaslove on “Total Healing – The Meditation Prescription – Learn how meditation can support good health.”

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Ruah

EH writes: “Can you please tell me anything about Ruah? There is a Catholic named institution here in Houston, that is called the Ruah Center and offers retreats according to this method?  I just am not sure I understand enough to know if it is truly Catholic. We are looking for a retreat center and made an inquiry.  We were told that we do not fit their method of retreats. Can you help me understand Ruah?”

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House of God’s Light Prayer Groups

MF writes: “What is your opinion of the ecumenical prayer group, House of God’s Light, affiliated with the Catholic ministry Heart of the Father? They pray in a Presbyterian Church and are involved with using a deliverance ministry. They appear to be part of the Charismatic renewal. Can’t some ecumenical activities lead to a mindset of moral relativism? If all churches are equal, who has the truth? Also, if some of the involved churches promote abortion and gay rights, isn’t there the risk of giving aid and comfort to the enemy? (We are in a culture war, especially in the area of pro-life.)”

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