My brother's keeper?

[DanteAlighieri]

I need some (name removed by moderator)ut.

I don’t like to toot my own horn, but I consider myself to have a somewhat more sophisticated background in Catholic teaching than my family. In fact, it’s possible that I have a deeper spiritual life, but I can’t say for certain.

Boy, do I feel like I’m judging them.

My question is this: to what extent am I responsible for educating my relatives about things they do or believe or lifestyles they embrace that contradict Catholic doctrine?

My question, of course, presupposes that I am also doing something about the telephone pole in my own eye.

 

[otjm]

That depends on how much you come across as a preacher. No one, whether they are right or wrong, likes to be preached at, and many people are very skittish when it comes to someone else’s (name removed by moderator)ut about their religiou life, or lack thereof.

Your first bet is to live a life that is an example of the Gospel. If they are curious, they will ask, and that is your opening to share - not preach, but share.

The second bet is to be genuinely curious; ask questions (but be very cautious of any appearance of judgementalism; it is amazing how easily that can creep in).

And always keep them in prayer.

And always be more concerned about the pole…

 

[teachccd]

I have the same situation. Like what was said, be an example. Say things in general like, “After Mass I…” or During confession last Saturday the priest mentioned…". Speak matter of fact when mentioning your faith. Preaching usually will seem like an attack on their lifestyle and they will notice yours less.

This is very difficult for me as a religious educator. Here I am catechizing children and adults and I cannot reach my family. ( Not including my wife and children, who thank God are still very fervant in the faith.)

So, what to do. Remember that we are all on a journey. No one is in the same place at the same time. God may utilize you as His instrument for their journey. And their position allows you to better understand yours. Be real careful not to judge, as you noted. This is so easy to do. Their spirituality may be so personal that it goes unnoticed by you but not God.

Pray and never cease. If they are called to be Catholic the Holy Spirit will guide them there. God wants them home more than you or I ever could… God Bless

 

[DanteAlighieri]

Thanks, guys! I appreciate the added perspective.

Dante

 

[Em_in_FL]

Well I’ll comment from the other perspective… of being “preached at”…

Now, I agree 100% with the Catholic faith… I’ll pull a reference outta the Catechism with the best of 'em!

But I’ve been exposed to certain people who like to wear their faith on their sleeve (as it were)… to “show off” their faith for everyone to see… to “prove” that they are really great Catholics… and that bugs me more than anything. It feels really fake and insulting.

I agree with this post…

That depends on how much you come across as a preacher. No one, whether they are right or wrong, likes to be preached at, and many people are very skittish when it comes to someone else’s (name removed by moderator)ut about their religiou life, or lack thereof.

**Your first bet is to live a life that is an example of the Gospel. If they are curious, they will ask, and that is your opening to share - not preach, but share.

The second bet is to be genuinely curious; ask questions (but be very cautious of any appearance of judgementalism; it is amazing how easily that can creep in).**
And always keep them in prayer.

And always be more concerned about the pole…

HTH!

 

[StCsDavid]

They will respect your humility more than coming across as a “Catholic Taliban.” Peter tried to defend the faith by lopping off an ear in the Garden of Gethsemane…Christ showed us all a better way.

Also asking questions is a good technique. For example, let’s say you have a relative that’s in a sexual relationship outside of marriage. You could one day in a very conversational tone say, “I wonder why the Church teaches what it does on pre-marital sex?” Your relative will likely give their interpretation, and then you can simply say, “I’m going to do a little research on this. Do you mind if I share with you what I find?” If they say yes, you have your in. If they say no…well at least you tried.

Finally, remember your job is to plant seeds. The Holy Spirit does the heavy lifting. There is nothing better you can do for your relatives than taking your prayers to Our Lord. Adoration is a great place to bring your prayers for fallen friends.

 

[Kevin42]

You could also become a priest and use your homilies as indirect ways to “educate” them. Of course, I’m not sure that would be the best course of action…but it’s a possibility.

 

[DanteAlighieri]

You could also become a priest and use your homilies as indirect ways to “educate” them. Of course, I’m not sure that would be the best course of action…but it’s a possibility.

Funny you should mention this…I once gave serious thought to whether I was being called to the priesthood. Circumstances led me to decide that I was not, because I believe I’m on the path God intends for me. But never say never…

Peace,
Dante