Father Ryan's E-mail Q&A
Dear Father Ryan: You might be tired of this question, but, can I still go to confession before Mass, and if I come too late for that, can I still go to Communion? Thanks for understanding. Marie
Dear Marie: For our Sunday Masses, I am usually present at least a full hour before each liturgy. And, you can also make an appointment with me at some perhaps more convenient time to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. My email and phone number are on the Contact Page. The relation of the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Sacrament of the Eucharist is this: if a person decides they are indeed in a state of serious sin, they must confess prior to receiving the Eucharist worthily. So, technically, the Sacrament of Reconciliation is required only when serious, or mortal, sin is present, because such sin so severely severs our relationship with God and His church. For other, less serious, or what we used to call venial sins, confession is not required, though it is recommended on a timely basis, often within the context of spiritual direction, (though that itself is not required). When approaching the liturgy of the Eucharist, often a perfect act of contrition, "My God, I am sorry for my sins out of love for You," is sufficient to worthily receive Communion with venial or less serious sins.
Hi Father Ryan, Is there a good website to find Pope
Benedict's recent homilies and talks given recently during his visit to
Washington and New York? Thanks also for helping us at Mass and in our small
group discussion on the psalms. Brian
Dear Brian: You are welcome and one website I would recommend is www.uspapalvisit.org. See you
at Mass. Father Ryan
Hello Padre: It was great to see you on Ash Wednesday it's me, Joe,
and I am just back from my semester abroad. Incidentally, I think it was
France where I saw a priest who looked just like you and he even preached
just like you well, in a way, because it was all in French and I understood
about 3 whole words, but he was still a ringer for you. Anyway, could you
give me a quick review of fasting and abstinence? Your friend, Joe
Dear St. Joseph: Your precious hiatus in a foreign land has apparently
caused a lapse in both nominal protocol and memory, as in the "padre" thingy,
which, as you know, only causes me great grief, bad memories and a tendency
to hurl invectives toward those who address me as such. But, I digress.
Fasting: limiting myself to one full meal per day, and allowing that any
other meals do not add up to the quantity of that one full meal. Abstinence
is totally refraining from eating meat. OK? Incidentally, you didn't say
whether that look-alike-priest in France was a good preacher or not? Father
Ryan
Hello ex-Padre Father Ryan:Come to think of it, no, I didn't mention
whether he was a good preacher or not. . .lol. . . . St. Joseph
Hello Father Ryan: Someone told me that you do Marriage Preparation
Courses. Is that the case and how is this arranged with you? Beth
Dear Beth: Yes, sometimes I help with Marriage Preparation classes and/or
presentations. A lot of our students from our multiple campuses are from
another state, and in a number of situations, from another country. Among
those planning marriage are a good number who find it next to impossible to
do the required marriage preparation classes within their home diocese, and
sometimes, find it just as impossible to take the classes together, as a
couple, no matter the place. That's where I come in. In conjunction with
their home diocese, the priest or deacon witnessing their marriage, and
whatever additional requirements may need to be fulfilled prior to the actual
marriage, and with permission, I have a marriage preparation seminar for
either that individual, or, more ideally of course, the couple. As I write
this, I meet with about 11 couples or individuals each week, on the average.
Contact me if I can help you. My schedule doesn't often permit me, however,
to do what I truly enjoy, which is the presentation by a priest or deacon, as
part of the Pre-Cana Program. Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: Hello! I see you on campus all the time and then
when I am over at the School of Public Health, there you are too. Anyway,
here's my question there is no mention of limbo in the new Catechism of the
Catholic Church. When did limbo disappear? Ryan
Hi Ryan, (you gotta love that name!). Yes, I see you sometimes and I
guess we are both hurried, you, to a class, me, to my next student-meeting.
Well, back to limbo. Originally, limbo, from the Latin for "fringe" or
"border" implied a state of natural, I would say "human" happiness, given to
those who die or have died, without the Sacrament of Baptism. The history of
limbo is a bit long for our purposes here, but, to the best of my
recollection, limbo was never officially, categorically or infallibly defined
as a certain Church doctrine or article of faith. Limbo was more of a
reasonable answer to what might possibly happen to those who die without the
privilege of Baptism, and how a good and merciful God might handle that
situation, since Baptism, in some form, is a requirement for salvation and,
therefore, heaven. I believe the new Catechism omits reference to limbo, in
favor of allowing the issue of dying without Baptism, to rest in God's hands
for a merciful, saving solution.Father Ryan
Dear Father Tom: You know I always thought that Ryan was your first
name and that you either didn't have a last name or it was like some
religious order people who give up their real name or is it their family name
in favor of a single saint's name except that there was no Saint Ryan or at
least you or someone else named Ryan could be the first but wouldn't that
mean you would have to die first and then there would have to be some
miracles or something like that so they could canonize you and call you Saint
Ryan and then babies could be baptized Ryan like Saint Ryan but then I found
out that your first name wasn't Ryan at all but Tom or I guess I should say
Thomas. Brandon
Dear, Dear Brandon: Is there a question here? Father Ryan
Dear Father Tom Ryan (again): Opps, yes, actually there is. I just
kinda got sidewacked or sidetracked or whatever. Can two females be
godparents instead of one man and one woman and, second question, can my 12
year old brother be a godfather if he is asked, though I don't think he will
be.Brandon
Dear Brandon: I am tempted to pray a lot for your little brother.
Anyway, according to Canon 873 in Church Law, for the baptism of a child or
adult, the norm is one male and one female sponsor, or, just one of each.
Allowance is not made for two men or two women. So, since only one godparent
is actually required, there is some flexibility, in that a baptized Catholic
or baptized non-Catholic may stand in place of a second sponsor, not, however
as an official sponsor, but as a "Christian Witness " to the Baptism. As I
see it, even your younger brother could stand, not as an official sponsor,
but as a witness, since Canon 874 does specify that, among other
requirements, a sponsor be at least 16 years of age. I hope this helps a
little. And please, please keep your questions coming. Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: It was good to see you on the Bayview campus it's
hard to keep up with you. I watched some of the ceremony of the installation
of Archbishop O'Brien and I have a hundred questions. Where should I start?
Amber
Dear Amber: . . . with the easy ones. Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: OK! What is his pectoral cross?Amber
Dear Amber: Good choice. Pectoral comes from the Latin word "pectus ",
meaning chest or breast, so the "pectoral cross" refers to the cross
suspended by a cord or chain around the neck and worn by the bishop, in our
case, the Archbishop, as a symbol of his office. You may also sometimes hear
or read that a priest was made a bishop or perhaps an archbishop or cardinal,
and instead of some official ceremony of public acknowledgement, it was done
"in pectore " or, in secret or "close to the heart" because public
acknowledgement might be seriously risky to the new bishop, for reasons
political or military, and/or because the practice of Catholicism in certain
areas is suppressed or forbidden by the government; hence, there is likely an
"underground " church. So, the bishop is known to be a bishop only to the
Holy Father. Incidentally, I believe Archbishop O'Brien's pectoral cross was
originally worn by one of our earlier Archbishops. Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: Is there any relation between a Bishop's miter and
the miter box used by carpenters? Amber
Dear Amber: "Mitra " is a Greek word that means headband or turban and
apparently lends itself to the foldable, twin-peaked hat (that is mitered or
beveled together?), worn by bishops, abbots and other prelates at liturgical
services and other ceremonial occasions. The bishop's miter is usually
covered in white linen or silk and he always wears it when carrying his
pastoral staff (or crosier), (next question?), but the miter is not worn
during the Eucharistic prayer or when solemn prayer is celebrated. Father
Ryan
Hello Father Ryan: Can you handle just one more or am I getting on
your holy nerves?Amber
Dear Amber: 1. Yes 2. Only a little. Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: So, ok, here is goes is there a difference between a
Processional Cross and a Crosier?Amber
Dear Amber: The processional cross is carried, usually the first in
the liturgical line, in most formal ceremonies, liturgies, and other related
celebrations. It can be carried by a server from the parish, a seminarian, or
anyone selected to perform that function. The crosier, on the other hand, is
used only during formal ceremonies with a Bishop, Archbishop or Cardinal. The
Latin word "crociarius ", meaning "bearer of the cross ", is essentially a
familiar symbol of the Bishop's staff or walking stick and symbolizes the
bishop's role (or Archbishop or Cardinal) as "good shepherd" of a given
diocese. The crosier can be made of wood or metal, and in some countries and
cultures, is highly and colorfully decorated.Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: Can you handle just one more from me? Please?
Amber
Dear Amber: Yes, but be kind. Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: OK, here goes for what is probably the last time. I
still don't know the difference between a Diocese (like my own in Wilmington,
Delaware), and ours here in Baltimore, an Archdiocese. Amber
Dear Amber: So, ok, for my probably last answer. A diocese names a
community of believers or a particular church presided over by a Bishop. In
the United States, a diocese usually consists of a geographical area, but
sometimes it is constituted by people of the same liturgical rite (e.g.
Eastern Orthodox) or language. An archdiocese derives from a Greek word archi
meaning chief, and diokcsis, meaning province. So the term "archdiocese "
refers to a major diocese, usually a metropolitan see, under the leadership
of an archbishop who is typically responsible for a larger, ecclesiastical
province with suffragan or associated dioceses. In the case of the
Archdiocese of Baltimore, our suffragan dioceses (or sees) are Richmond,
Wilmington, Wheeling-Charleston and Arlington. I know that may be a little
confusing, but I think "archdiocese" is best remembered as one of the more
major, (larger and/or more historically rooted) dioceses.Father
Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: In August, my sister asked me to be a baptismal
sponsor for her new baby and we got to talking about baptismal names and how
some names children are now given are not, in fact, saints names. Isn't there
a rule about baptismal names?Mary
Dear Mary: There is indeed a long, many centuries old tradition of
naming children after some of the great saints in our lineage. It remains a
nice way of honoring virtuous and heroic men and women from our religious
past and giving a child a "patron saint" as it were. In the older code of
Canon Law it was, as I remember, required that a newly baptized child receive
such a saint's name or that of one of the virtues, (such as Faith or
Prudence). In the new code, there is much more flexibility in choosing a
baptismal names, providing ofcourse, "that such a name is not incompatible
with Christian beliefs. " Father Ryan
Hi Father, I am, or will be new to Johns Hopkins this September. When
is Mass?Jason
Dear Jason: Our first Mass for the semester will be Saturday,
September 1st, 2007 at 6 p.m. in the Chapel of the Interfaith
Center at the corner of N. Charles and University Parkway. This is a special
liturgy for our new Freshmen Class and their families, but all are welcome.
Starting Sunday, September 9th, we have Mass each Sunday at both
11 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. It will be nice to meet you there! Father Ryan
Hi Father Ryan: Is it true that you get asked to preach in other
churches, and specifically in some Protestant churches, from time to time.
And, 2ndly, we can get pretty silly sometimes and does that still get on your
nerves? TJ
Dear TJ: 1. Yes, and I am honored to do so. 2. "Silly" is a kind word,
and, lovingly, yes you do.Father Ryan
Hey Father Ryan: I'm just wondering why 666 is said to be "the devil's
number "? Patricia
Hi Patricia: For (literally) centuries, as I understand it, there has
been much debate, argument, interpretation, sometimes very adamant and
aggressive reasoning about this number 666 as it is referenced in the last
book of the Bible, the Book of Revelation, (once known, of course, as the
Book of the Apocalypse). In and around chapters 13 through 18, highly
imaginative reference is made to the "end time" (end of the world) and a
cosmic battle between the forces of good, (God), and evil, (satan). Satan is
also the antichrist of Revelation, and the ultimate victor in this battle is
God. But specific mention is made in these chapters on how to identify
followers of Satan, as they will display the number 666, as I remember,
either on their foreheads or on their right hands. So, through time, legend,
repetition and imagination, the number is often associated with things evil
or the person of the devil. As a theologian, I caution on reading Revelation
on too literal a level and encourage readers to focus on how the power of
God-in-Christ, in turn, empowers us with courage, fearlessness, and bravery,
especially in dark and troubled times (worldwide or personal), in times of
persecution, and in those times when we feel abandoned or hopelessly lonely.
I think the Book of Revelation is much about the victory or Christ's
Resurrection Power over every conceivable obstacle to faith and hope and
love. Thanks for asking, Patricia.Father Ryan
Hello Father Ryan: My girlfriend gets mad at me when we are at Mass
together because I tend to fall asleep almost the minute I sit down. It
doesn't seem to matter whether it's warm or cold inside, I just zone out and
then I am gone. It's not that you are boring, of course, Father, but she says
that if I sleep through a certain percentage of the Mass it's as good as
missing it altogether and I have to go again by myself. Again, Father, I am
not implying that you are boring it's like: it's not you, it's me. Any
advice?Mike
Dear Michael: Gee, I am very glad you mentioned, twice in fact, that
it's not my fault that you doze off. But, the fact that you come to Mass
faithfully with and (sometimes) without your girlfriend and make a good
attempt to stay alert, tells me your heart is in the right place, even if
your head is sometimes in the arms of Morpheus. No, I wouldn't consider it
"missing Mass" if through no fault of your own, you doze off, even
frequently. Some students drink coffee just before Mass, others sit near the
back so they can quietly stand near the wall if the nodding off becomes
chronic, and others just struggle with the problem, trying their best. You
and your girlfriend are very faithful to your commitment to Mass and I know
you both work hard at your studies with little or no "down time." So, keep
trying "motive" always counts most. Father Ryan
Hi Father Ryan: When I was home on spring break, my parish priest told
me that Cardinal Keeler was retired and a new Bishop was coming to Baltimore.
So far though, you haven't said anything about a new Bishop and when we have
Mass, you still say Cardinal Keeler's name, his first name I think, during
the Eucharistic Prayer. Can you clarify? SS
Dear SS: Your parish priest may be somewhat ahead of what's really happening.
Baltimore's Cardinal William Keeler turned 75 last year, and, as is required
by our Holy Father, wrote a letter of resignation to Pope Benedict. (All
bishops worldwide reaching the age of 75 years, must submit this letter). As
has been the custom with most modern popes, however, the actual effect of the
resignation is strictly up to the Holy Father and sometimes, several years
may elapse until the Bishop/Cardinal actually retires and a replacement is
announced by the Pope. With our own Cardinal Keeler, it may well be that over
the next several months, his resignation may become effective and following
that, probably even more months later, a replacement will be announced by the
Pope. Until that time, his first name, William, continues to be inserted into
the Eucharistic Prayer as you indicated. Cardinal Keeler has served the
Archdiocese of Baltimore in a most gracious and supportive way he is, I
personally believe, a great spiritual minister and I will be among many, many
people who will miss his presence. Father Ryan (written, Sunday, April
15, 2007).
Dear Father Ryan: I have been asked to be my cousin's sponsor for
Confirmation and I remember reading (somewhere) that at one time,
Confirmation wasn't a sacrament at all, and so, how did it come to be one?
They don't just make them up, do they? (I don't mean to make that sound
smarty alec). Your friend, Kyle
Dear Kyle: It just isn't in you to be a "smarty alec " and besides, I
happen to know both your parents and would report you in a heartbeat. Now,
having said, or written, that, and by way of answer: the Sacraments developed
over time, both in theology and form, and for that matter, in practice as
well. In our earliest times, Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation were
celebrated together with converts, and even today, the same general practice
is still applied to adult converts. However, in the evolutionary process of
the Sacrament of Confirmation, only bishops can administer the final
anointing of Confirmation literally, a "confirmation" that the person has
been baptized, And, as the practice of infant baptism grew and contact with
the Bishop became more limited, the Confirmation of youngest children came to
be postponed to a later stage in their lives. So, Mr. Kyle, I will see you
soon in Church. Father Ryan
Hi Father Ryan: So, what's the deal with fasting and abstinence for
Ash Wednesday?Ryan
Dear Beloved Ryan: Well, let's see, how do I put this. . . .? Hmmm,
the deal? Well, Ryan, the deal is this: Ash Wednesday is a day of universal
fast (only 1 full meal) and total abstinence from meat. You know well by now
that the real deal is about sacrifice and a sincere willingness to re-form my
life with God's help, in those areas where I fail most as His disciple. I
will have more to say about that later. Father Ryan
Hi Father Ryan: Is the Assumption of Mary in the Bible somewhere? If
not, how did it come to be part of the Catholic belief?Katrina
Dear Katrina: On November 1, 1950, Pope Pius XII declared, as the only
infallible proclamation in modern times (at least so far), the Assumption of
the Blessed Virgin Mary. The declaration is, ofcourse, lengthy and heavily
theological, but essentially states that Mary was assumed, body and soul,
"into heavenly glory." The declaration seems to leave open any official
pronouncement as to whether Mary died a physical death or not, though most
theologians hold that Mary did, as did her Son, die a physical death, and
after some period of "dormition " or resting in death, was taken into heaven
by the power of God. There is no precise statement of Mary's Assumption in
Sacred Scripture. However, the Fathers of the Church wrote (and preached)
lengthy pieces about the appropriateness of her assumption, and seemed to
mirror a firmly held belief in her bodily assumption by early post-Pentecost
communities. In sum, the weight of "evidence" in a sense, comes more from the
oral, then written tradition of our early (and later) faith-ancestors.
Remember too, that all of our sacramental, dogmatic, liturgical and moral
"systems " are rooted, in either Sacred Scripture and/or the Tradition (oral
and written) of our Church. In the case of the Assumption, Sacred Scripture,
citing Mary as the "New Eve ", among other references, was heavily used as a
supportive, integrating and clarifying instrument for the Tradition. The
dogmas of the Immaculate Conception and Mary's Virgin Birth are similarly
sourced as expressions more of Tradition, with supportive and unifying images
and references within Scripture. Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: I have been reading about the Basilica of the
Assumption and how it has been closed for repairs and restoration for the
last 2 years or so. What's a good source for finding out when it will reopen.
I am interested in and, in fact fascinated by American church architecture.
Brad
Dear Brad:In terms of our own Basilica, probably the best source for
the various re-opening ceremonies is www.archbalt.org. This, more than
incidentally, is a special project of our own Cardinal Keeler and, in a
sense, represents not so much a statement of his accomplishments as a Bishop
and spiritual leader, but more his profound respect for our spiritual
history, especially as Baltimore was (is) the first diocese in the United
States. Also, follow the Sun newspaper more coverage. Father
Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: In one of our Bible study sessions, we got into a
pretty heated discussion on whether or not there are actual historical books,
(beside the Gospels) that mention the existence of Jesus. Can you
help?D.
Dear D: As far as I know, outside the circle of early Christians, the
first mention of Jesus in a purely historical text was by Flavius Josephus, a
Jewish historian. His writings, especially The Antiquities of the Jews,
completed around the year 94, were treasured sources of information about the
early Christians. And Tacitus, a Roman historian, in 110 A.D. wrote about
"Christians, whose founder, one Christus, was put to death by the procurator
Pontius Pilate when Tiberius was emperor" (AnnalaXV44). Information on
historians and Jesus can be found online by Googling their names with that of
Jesus. Remember that Jesus was the leader of a comparatively small offshoot
of Jews, at least from any viewpoint other than faith. So, there is really no
list of historical writings about the early Christians and the historical
Jesus. Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: What, exactly, is the rapture? Every so often I hear
someone, especially on TV, talk about it and I can't connect? Kevin
Dear Kevin: Taken from a reference in 1st Thessalonians
4:17, "rapture" is the final, glorious union with Jesus Christ by all of the
"saved" at the time of the parousia, or end of time. The more general
understanding is this: there will be a second coming of Jesus Christ in all
glory, which will indeed mark the end of time as we humanly understand it.
And then, the Lord will gather all the redeemed, from all times and places,
from among all peoples, and, together with all material creation, lift them
all up to the Father forever. How's that, Kevin?Father Ryan (Dear
Father Ryan: . . .something to look forward to, right? Kevin)
Hi Father Ryan: How long does it take you to prep your talks each
week?Mike.
Hi again Father Ryan: How long does it take you to prep your sermons
each week?Mike. (again).
Hi still again Father Ryan: So, this is my final shot how long does it
take you to prepare your weekly homilies?Mike.
Dear Blessed Michael: I knew you would get it right eventually a talk,
is a non-liturgical presentation; a sermon is an inspiring presentation on
some specific virtue, (as in your case, perseverance), commandment or other
edifying gift or grace of God, and a homily, finally, is a reflection on one,
two or all of the liturgical readings of a given Sunday or weekday. Now,
having said that, the answer to your question is, anywhere from roughly 8 to
12 hours most weeks. Father Ryan Dear Father Ryan: It's okay if you print
this in your website column because others may have the same or similar
questions. I have heard that you counsel people who are having problems with
drugs and/or alcohol and that you have special meetings for them throughout a
given week, especially in the evenings. Could you verify that, at least in
general because I know that anonymity is extremely important in these
matters? Just using my initial, and thanks,M.
Dear M: Yes, anyone who is concerned about his/her use of
drugs/alcohol is welcome to sit down with me, so, yes, I have counseled
people and continue to do so, again, and as you indicate, with full
anonymity. There are a number of resources available to any student on
campus, and our counseling center is an excellent one as well. Regarding
special meetings, I have to be careful here because I meet with students
throughout the week for a host of reasons, not all related to drugs and
alcohol. My general intention is typically to get someone, who appears to
have a problem with substance abuse, started in a program like Alcoholics
Anonymous, and encourage their attendance, regularly, at meetings conducted
throughout this area by AA. So, M., you or anyone you know is welcome to call
for me for support.Father Ryan (410-243-7066).
Hi Father Ryan: Couple of us were talking and we were wondering if,
like, you live in monastery or something and you have to fast a lot and who
cooks for you or is it like Sodexho (and we sure hope not)? Let us know or
come up to our, and possibly your, favorite fraternity. But, don't come up
during pledging.John and Company
Dear John and Company: Please try to stifle any fear or anxiety that,
before, during or after pledging, I will appear on your doorstep. I feel
safer and more secure meeting you guys in church. And, no, I do not live in a
monastery. I have a small in-law apartment (within a home, separate living
quarters) in an area called Dulaney Valley, which is modest and quiet and
currently serves my frugal needs quite well. I have some living quarters
within the Newman Center which I do use part-time. I had intended to move
full-time into the Newman Center, but I was reminded that in that event, I
could not offer residency to any others and I think it's better to provide
that residency to at least 2 others at a reasonable cost. I declined a
contract with Sodexho to provide my food and do it all myself laundry too.
One day a week and when I can find time off, I care for a retired priest as
well. OK, so just when next might I next see you fellows in church? Father
Ryan
Hello Father Ryan it's Megan: I have 2 random questions about Guardian
Angels. Where are our angels when we go "astray" and what about "evil doers"
do they have a Guardian Angel too? And my roommate has a question for you
also we know you are from Pittsburgh and wonder if you were ever stationed in
McKees Rocks? Thanks!
Dear Megan: First, it was good to see you so recently. Second, as you
know, on October 2nd, we celebrate the feast of our Guardian
Angels, a fairly old, traditional belief that God, in His providence, places
a special messenger, or protector near us, mainly as yet another testimony to
His care and love for us. The exact role of such angels has never been
defined, and likely never will be. So, when we go astray, as you say, I
believe our Guardian Angel, in deference to the power of our will, steps
aside and ofcourse permits us to choose that which we may be sinful and
selfish, as does God Himself. And, although tradition is a little less clear
on this point, it basically holds that all people receive the gift of an
angel, who the sinner, abandons, and not the other way around. Finally, I was
never assigned to McKees Rocks and my priesthood has been spent within the
Archdiocese of Baltimore. See you soon?Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: I understand that a number of students have
scheduled times with you for a variety of reasons like confession and
counseling. How can I do that? My only free time is often just lunch, so, is
that a possibility?B.
Dear B: Yes, lunch time is a sure possibility. Call me at
410-243-7066. Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: I was wondering what purgatory is? Well, I guess I
should re-ask that in that I know what purgatory is, but my question is why
is it part of Catholic belief if it is nowhere to be found in the Bible?
Thanks, John
Dear John: Some of the beliefs in the doctrines of the Catholic Church
are rooted both in Sacred Scripture and in the traditions handed down orally
(especially in the early centuries). Purgatory is, in my opinion, a belief
having its origins more in early tradition rather than in scripture. In the
Catechism of the Catholic Church, (#1054), purgatory is explained more
as a process than a place, a kind of purification following death for those
who are saved, so that they may realize the holiness and integrity to enter
heaven. There are "hints" of purgatory in scripture, such as Revelation
6:9-11, and 1 Peter 3: 18-19. Purgatory also received important attention in
the teachings of the early fathers, and was given definition by the Council
of Florence in 1439. My personal way of thinking about purgatory, John, is
that following my death, I will need to continue a process of seeing Jesus
"more clearly, loving him more dearly, and following him more nearly." The
only pain or suffering attached to the purgatory process is the pain of
not-quite-yet-being-in-Christ. But the hope, the promise, of finally being
with Christ would out weigh the process of waiting. Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan I am a graduate student here at Hopkins and was an
undergraduate for four years also here on campus. And although I come to
Sunday Mass at the IFC most of the time, sometimes I need to go elsewhere,
depending on my schedule. But, I have noticed quite an increase in the number
of people, (not just students), who come to our Masses and am just curious
who these people might be. Any clues?Tom
Dear Tom: I guess a lot of us have noticed new faces at Mass as the
most recent years have passed. As you indicate, most are from our
undergraduate community, and some are graduate school alumni. Still others
come from the surrounding community and a small number are employees of the
Hopkins who have found us. One husband and wife couple told me recently that
they feel both welcomed and relaxed within our little community, and being
with so many students makes them feel "young." Hmmm, I don't quite know why
the "young" part isn't quite working for me, but I think the mixed makeup of
our community is a singular strength. Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan, I was wondering if there is a possibility we could
have Sanctus Bells for Mass the mystery they add is one of my favorite
aspects of Mass back home. What do you think?Jared S.
Dear Jared: Although some people believe bells rung during the
Consecration of the Mass have been banned, that is not the case. In the
General Instruction, a document that details all of the pertinent information
about the celebration of Mass, there is, in fact, mention of bells rung at
both consecrations (bread and wine), as well as early in the Eucharistic
Prayer, during the extension of the priest's hands over the bread and wine
prior to their consecration. The Instruction seems to indicate that bells
may, indeed, be runs at those times, depending on local customs in a given
diocese and/or parish. For us, it has apparently been many years since the
bells were used, since I can't find a set that may have been stashed away in
our sacristy. For the time being, I prefer to maintain the current custom but
promise to re-think it nearer the rededication of our Newman Center.Father
Ryan
Hi Father Ryan: I have been doing Lent for many years, but I still
forget the regulations about fast and abstinence. Any
help?Alexander
Dear Alexander: I think it's easy to get confused about Lenten
observances. First, Lent is a 44 day liturgical season, as you know, that
begins on Ash Wednesday this year, March 1st, and ends with the
Mass of the Lord's Supper on Holy Thursday, April 13th. And
essentially, it is a season for spiritual renewal and preparation for the
celebration of Easter, the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. The rules for fast
and abstinence are: all persons at and over the age of 14 years are bound by
the law of abstinence (no meat), up to their 60th year. Abstinence
from all meat and mean products covers Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and all
the Fridays of Lent. "Fast " means that I limit my general intake of food to
a single, full meal, and though I can eat other foods, these do not add up to
yet another full mean on a given day. Again, Ash Wednesday and Good Friday
are Lenten days of fast. I hope this helps, Alexander. Father Ryan
Dear
Father Ryan: Now that the second semester in underway, I have heard that
a group of students from the Catholic Community will be doing something
special for the victims of Hurricane Katrina, but I don't know any details
help? Matt
Dear Matt: During our spring break this year, 15 students, not just
from our community, but campus-wide, will be invited to participate in what
we are calling an "Alternative Spring Break " trip to Moss Point Mississippi.
They will camp out in a church basement and will participate in 5 full days
of hands-on relief and rebuilding work. These students will in fact be
representing a wide range of faith traditions on our campus, yet, "they will
be working with one heart to bring a sense of light to a place that has
endured great darkness" (Sharon Kugler). Each Campus Minister was asked
during this past December to make a financial contribution on behalf of their
respective community, and the Catholic Community pledged $ 1,000.00 from our
(modest) reserves. The students who volunteer for the trip will pay only a
small amount to help with personal expenses. If you are interested, or simply
want more information, check out the Campus Ministry website (see links to
JHU Chaplain). Father Ryan
Hi Father Ryan: It's nice to be back with you. This semester, I have
bigger, open blocks of time in my study and class schedule, even during the
day. I'm wondering if there are some service activities, not too far away,
that I might join up with for the semester? See you soon at Mass.
Megan (PS: is it true you have a cat named Isabelle?)
Dear Megan: Take a look at our Service list, there are a few
activities you may be interested in, especially Beans and Bread they have
some specific, daytime needs that might fit your schedule. But look through
the others, too. I know that St. Ignatius School, down from us on Calvert
Street, is looking for mentors for some of their students, but I don't have
information and contacts, just yet. Father Ryan (PPS to your PS:
First, his or her name is Elliott my choice. Second, I don't really know if
it is a male or female as my feline, anatomical prowess is outside my
theological sphere. Third, as they are in the habit of doing, this damn cat
has me, not the other way around. I am sincerely hoping Elliott is paying me
but a brief, self-indulgent visit.
Dear Father Tom: I have a question regarding standing and kneeling at
Mass. At the Interfaith Center when we have Mass, we kneel during the
Consecration. But, at my home parish, everyone stands. And, I have noticed,
when I have gone to Mass other places, it's about 60/40 (kneeling/standing).
So, I am a dazed and confused junior at Hopkins. D&A Dan
Dear
D&A Dan: According to the General Instruction on the Roman
Rite, latest edition, kneeling is the preferred posture during the
Eucharistic Prayer, which, as you mention, includes the Consecration. This
beautiful, sometimes lengthy prayer, begins after the Holy, Holy, Holy, and
concludes as we sing the Great Amen. However, it has become customary in some
dioceses, and includes permission from the Ordinary (the Bishop), to stand
during the Eucharistic Prayer, which is also a sign of reverence. Remember,
we stand for the Gospel, for example. So, either posture is acceptable,
depending on local (parish) custom. An interesting piece, however, about our
own Interfaith Center, and one that escaped my attention for some time, is
that there are no kneelers attached to the pews. So, technically, standing
would seem to be the obvious, reverential posture during the Eucharistic
Prayer. My guess, however, is that we have been kneeling all along, these
many years, first, because that's the way it was in our home parish; second,
because we are young, athletic and agile (aw, kneelers, schmeelers) and
third, it's now our own custom. If, however, someone chose to stand, (like
old, decrepit me), that too, would be most acceptable.Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: In our Bible Study recently, the topic of purgatory
came up. Can you direct us to some resources?Chris R.
Dear Chris: You should check our links for several good resources on
Catholic teaching, which may provide more information, history and background
than I may in this space. Purgatory, as a Catholic belief, goes far back into
our history. Pope St. Gregory the Great, 590-604 CE, gave more substance to
purgatory, even though belief in it pre-dated even him. Purgatory is the
belief that after death, some believers' sins (not mortal or serious ones),
warrant a period of "purification" before the soul can justly be fully with
God. The church has never clearly defined just what that purification is,
stating at times that purgatory is the "painful" separation from God for a
time specified only by God Himself. In the Middle Ages, purgatory took on
colorful, almost dramatically morbid overtones. Check our listing for the New
Catechism of the Catholic Church for more detailed information. You will
notice that purgatory is not, for example, an infallible doctrine of the
Church, but a widely held, ancient tenet of believers, about which we have
little to no specific information. Father Ryan
Hi Father Tom: I was visiting a friend in New England recently and she
referred to one of the priests in her parish as a "curate." Help?
Lisa
Dear Lisa: At one time in the history of the American Catholic church,
any assistant priest, other than the Pastor ofcourse, was called a curate.
More likely today in most areas, he is the parochial vicar (as in my hometown
diocese of Pittsburgh) or associate pastor (as in the Archdiocese of
Baltimore). Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: I was talking with my mother yesterday and she
reminded me that there is something called "Priest Sunday" every fall. What
is this about? Karen
Dear Karen: I think it was the Serra Club, a group of men and
women, who, among other things, originated a kind of "Thank you, Father ",
Sunday each year, encouraging us to offer our thanks to the priests who
pastor us, whether in a parish or some other setting, like my own, as Campus
Minister. I believe this year, "Priest Sunday" is October 29-30 in most
dioceses. There is also a website you can visit, www.thankyoufather.com, where you
can post a message for thanking your local priest(s). As with most people,
priests, too, do a lot of unseen, unheard of work and that's as it should be,
in my opinion, yet I can personally tell you that an occasional expression of
thank-you goes a great distance for morale. In my own ministry here at The
Hopkins, I find a very supportive group of young men and women, excepting
those, ofcourse, who fiendishly enjoy driving me nuts.Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: As a med student, I am familiar with the term
embolism ". But, recently, I went to a talk on the Catholic liturgy at my
hometown parish, and the presenter said something about embolism as it
relates to the pre-communion part of the Mass. But he didn't quite explain
what he meant and I didn't get the chance to ask him further. Can you
help?Chris
Dear Chris: Actually, Chris, there is a kind of similarity between the
medical use of embolism, as an obstruction or occlusion in an artery by some
mass, and its liturgical reference. In liturgy, an embolism is that short
sequel to the Lord's Prayer, inserted right before the Breaking of the Bread
and the Kiss of Peace. It begins, "Deliver us, Lord, from every evil" and is
really a continuation of the petition to free us from harm and help us make
peace in a sense, it is an "insertion " more than an obstruction, but, I
suspect, the term was borrowed from medical references nonetheless.Father
Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: Need your help. Do you know a good prayer I could
use, especially at night, just before I go to bed? I guess I'm kind of lazy,
since you post a lot of links here on your website that could direct me to
some good prayers. But, I do like to try to get close to Jesus before I go to
sleep at night. Because then, I always sleep more peacefully, and just feel
better about myself. And, if it's not too personal, what do you prayer just
before you go to bed? You probably pray for us, don't you, 'cause we still
drive you nuts, right? Thanks, Father. Peter
Hello Peter: Yes, you do still manage to steer the course of my mental
stability in somewhat erratic and unexpected directions. No, I don't mind
telling you what I pray at night. I always get on my knees, because, for me,
that's a humbling moment, and first, I thank God for the days' blessings and
crosses. I try to be specific about these, so I don't forget that the Lord is
really interested in me and concerned about what has happened. This is all
preceded by the Liturgy of Night Prayer. Then, I usually ask the Lord for a
restful sleep. My closing words are: "Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom
God's love commits me here; ever this day be at my side, to light, to guard,
to rule and guide. " "Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray you, Lord, my soul
to keep. If I should die before I wake, I pray you, Lord, my soul to take. "
Here's another, from someone else's practice: "Blessed are you, Lord of
sunsets and evening stars. I end this day hoping that I have given you praise
and thanksgiving with my whole heart, mind and soul. You have been with me in
all that I have done this day, and you will be with me as I sleep. Please
give me holy rest this night and deep peace. Forgive me for any wrong I have
done to you, O God, and to others. Absolve me from the sins I have committed,
and any good deeds I have omitted. Thanks, God. "Father Ryan
Hi Father Ryan: I am a Peabody student and often come to Mass at the
IFC on Sunday mornings. I have been doing some research and came across
reference to a "antiphonary." I realize it has to do with the choral
antiphons used in connection with the psalms, but obviously, there is more.
Any help? (see you on Sunday). John
Dear John: An "antiphonary" (an-TIF-uh-ner-ee) is a liturgical book
(so it's used for services of many kinds) and contains both words and music,
often Gregorian chant, and it is mainly used for the choral singing of the
Liturgy of the Hours. You would typically find an antiphonary in a monastery,
though that's not the only place where such a book is to be found. See you
soon, John.Father Ryan
Hi Father Ryan: I am confused as to what a Brieviary is, (I don't
think I even spelled that correctly). I know it's a prayerbook, but is it the
one you use to say the prayers at Mass. Thanks, see you soon. KM
Dear KM: I can understand your confusion, since, even at Mass, we use
a number of different prayer and reading texts. But the "breviary" is not a
text we use at liturgy. It's an older, alternate name sometimes given to the
4 large volumes of what we now call "The Liturgy of the Hours, " which is
recited or sung each day by priests, monks, religious Brothers and Sisters,
and a growing number of lay men and women, all of whom use it as way of
praising, thanking and petitioning the Lord. The Liturgy of the Hours is
composed of psalms, ancient prayers, petitions, classic homilies,
exhortations and even biographies. Frankly, I enjoy praying the breviary. I
am usually able to participate in this "official" prayer of the Church with
Morning Prayer, Noon Prayer, Evening and Night Prayer, and a larger section
called, The Office of Readings. I typically find it a calm way of centering,
re-organizing my priorities, and, frankly, joining millions of others at
these times. If you would like help in working through this more formal type
of prayer, let me know and I can get you started. Father Ryan
Dear Padrone Tomas: I think I owe you or someone an apology. You see,
last week at Mass, I accidentally put a grocery slip in the offering basket
instead of money. The list isn't at all important, but I had written the
phone number of a new "friend" on it if you know what I mean. If I don't get
it back, I may lose a really important opportunity (again, if you know what I
mean). Is there any way you can help?Z (I am not giving any further
info on my name, because then you will know who I am and I may experience
embarrassment, if you know what I mean).
Dear Zach: First, I already know who you are, so let's get over that
right away. Second, you never did apologize. Third, yes, the bank returned
the slip to me. Fourth, I called this young lady, explained how careless (but
loving) you are, and she's waiting to hear from you. Fifth, you can obtain
the phone number for a small ransom if you know what I mean. Sixth, you
probably thought you were clever in slipping in the Italian "padrone" for
"padre ", but it didn't work, now did it? Lastly, you are a great, faithful
young man, beautifully gifted by God. So there. Father Ryan
Dear Father Tom: Is it ok to call you Father Tom? See, I thought
your first name was Ryan. I won't call you Padre, as you requested. But I did
notice that you spelled that certain word as "pawdre" is this any reference
to your deceased canine friend, Sparky? Anyway, my real question is, when can
I go to confession? Thanks, Father.CP
Dear CP: Yes, Father Tom is fine. And second yes, the Paw-word is
indeed an unimaginative reference a Hopkins' student gave to me when he saw a
pix of me and 'ol Sparky. Fortunately, that particular student went to
graduate-school heaven. Confession is available one hour before each Sunday
liturgy (11 am and 5:30 pm), as I am always early for Mass for that reason.
Or, if it's more convenient, just call or email me 410-243-7066 -- and we
will find a more convenient time.Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: I have never received the Sacrament on Confirmation.
Ofcourse, I was baptized and received First Communion and First Penance. What
do I need to do?PL
Dear PL: Again, just call me and we will arrange an appropriate
preparation for you to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. That can be
done in a number of ways, including receiving the Sacrament in your home
parish, or with us, here in the Catholic Community. The prep part is not
laborious, but a simple, pretty straight-forward discernment experience that
you may choose to join some of our other students in doing. Call me or email
me and let's get started. Father Ryan
Dear Father Ryan: What exactly is a "red Mass " or Mass of the Holy
Spirit, and how is it different from other Masses?JS
Dear JS: A Red Mass usually describes the color of the vestments used
on the occasion of what we call a "votive" Mass, or one that is celebrated
for some special occasion such as the opening of councils, deliberative
groups, schools and similar occasions when the guidance of the Holy Spirit is
invoked. Often, at the beginning of a judicial year, such a Mass is
celebrated with judges, court officials, legislative assemblies and civil
servants, all with the intention they might exercise equity and prudence
while fulfilling their official capacities. Father Ryan
